Regardless of whether you live in a studio or a room, these design ideas will help you optimise small spaces and create a comfortable living environment.
The first thing that comes to mind when we think about small spaces is the lack of furniture and storage options. However, there are ways to make the most out of what little space you have. The following ideas can be used as inspiration for property owners and tenants alike. However, if you are a tenant, be sure to check your lease first and obtain landlord’s written consent when it comes to making any permanent changes to your rented property.
Use storage space wisely to optimise small spaces
Storage space is one of the biggest challenges in small rooms. If you don’t use it wisely, you might end up with an empty closet or even worse, a cluttered room. To avoid this problem, try to keep things simple and organised. Storage organisers for drawers are an excellent way to maximise space and keep personal belongings tidy. You should also consider using shelves instead of hanging clothes on the wall.
Living room with storage ideas
If you want to save some space, you could opt for a modular sofa. This type of sofa has many advantages over a traditional one: they are easy to assemble and disassemble, they come in different sizes and colours, they can easily fit into any room, and some offer storage underneath too.
Use shelves instead of clothes hangers
Shelving is a great way to organise your clothing and other items. It doesn’t take much space but provides plenty of storage. You won’t have to worry about getting tangled clothes because they lie neatly on the shelf.
Get a day bed
A day bed is a perfect way to optimise small spaces since it takes up less floor space than a regular bed. Moreover, it allows you to sleep comfortably while still providing enough space for storing your belongings. You can add a day couch and watch your bedroom double in space.
Create an open concept
An open concept is ideal for small spaces. It creates a feeling of spaciousness and makes the room seem larger. You can achieve this by installing sliding glass doors, adding mirrors, painting the walls white and placing large pieces of art on the walls.
Make shiny and waterproofed floors
Shiny and waterproofed floors can be a great design idea to optimise small spaces. Shiny floors, such as those made of polished concrete or ceramic tile, reflect light and help to create the illusion of more space. This can make a small space feel more open and airy. Waterproofed floors, on the other hand, are not only functional but also add a sleek and modern touch to any space.
Waterproof flooring options, such as vinyl or laminate, are easy to clean and maintain, making them a practical choice for small spaces. Vinyl flooring is waterproof because it has an acrylic coating on top and also protects the subfloor from moisture. Both options are also resistant to water damage, which can be a concern in small spaces where spills and accidents are more likely to occur. Overall, shiny and waterproofed floors are a great design idea for optimising small spaces as they add both aesthetics and functionality to the space.
Make use of pantry cabinets
Pantry cabinets are another good source of storage space. They can be used to store all sorts of things, from canned goods and spices to cleaning supplies and even tools. If you have a small pantry or kitchen cabinet, make sure that it is well-organised so that everything has its place.
Use built-in appliances
Built-in appliances are a great way to save space in your kitchen. There is no need for you to buy free-standing appliances, such as a microwave or refrigerator, when they can be built into a wall. You will have an extra countertop area that you can use for other purposes.
Mount your television on a wall
This works best if you have a flat screen TV. You can mount it on the wall or hang it from the ceiling, but make sure that your television is not too heavy for the mounting hardware to hold. If you are hanging your television from the ceiling, be careful where you put the screws because they will be visible and may look messy.
Use mirrors
You can use mirrors in many different ways, from adding depth and dimension to making the room look bigger. Mirrors are also an easy way to make a room feel larger than it actually is. You can even use them as a focal point for your decorating scheme.
Go big in a small space
When decorating a small space, go big. Don’t limit yourself to just one colour scheme. Try mixing several shades of paint together to create a unique look. You can also use bold patterns and textures to liven up the space.
Add a gallery wall
Covering a wall floor-to-ceiling can actually increase the size of a small room. This is because the space between the floor and the wall acts as an air gap, which allows more light to enter the room. The same effect occurs when you place a picture on a wall. You are effectively creating a gallery wall that adds visual interest to your home.
Forgo bulky pieces
It’s tempting to purchase bulky pieces of furniture like dressers and wardrobes. However, they can take up a lot of space and make your room appear smaller. Instead, opt for compact pieces that offer ample storage.
Small spaces require creativity and also smart storage solutions. If your home has limited floor space, consider these smart design ideas to help optimise every inch of your space.
