Maximizing Your Minimal Space: How You Can Live Large In Small Quarters

vnmockup - stock.adobe.com-  illustrative purposes only
vnmockup - stock.adobe.com- illustrative purposes only

As the real estate market continues to prevent everyone– from recent graduates to older adults– from affording homes throughout the country, you may be working with a bit less space than you’d like.

But interest rates will eventually drop, and home prices will (hopefully) balance out. So, in the meantime, you should get to enjoy your current space, even if it’s not the house of your dreams.

You don’t need vast open-concept plans to do this, either. Instead, it’s all about maximizing the little space you may already have right now.

Find Your Flow

First things first, you’ll want to look at your space with a critical eye. Figure out what’s working and what is a bit of an eyesore or taking up way too much space.

One great way to maximize room is by thinking about your daily routine and considering how you can incorporate multi-functional furniture that serves various purposes.

For instance, a dining table can be a workspace during the day instead of letting a desk take up even more space in your apartment. At the same time, a sofa that transforms into a guest bed can be a great way to allow overnight guests without sacrificing an extra bedroom.

Also, don’t be afraid to go vertical! Shelves, wall-mounted desks, or even tall plants can create an illusion of space and offer storage without consuming the precious floor area.

The Art Of Decluttering

vnmockup – stock.adobe.com- illustrative purposes only

It’s hard to feel like a space is yours (or functional) if it’s filled with things you don’t need or love. So, you might want to think about instituting a “one-in, one-out” policy.

If you buy something new, you can donate or sell something old. This will keep clutter to a minimum and allow you to actually enjoy your space.

Additionally, you might want to adopt seasonal storage solutions. Keep only the current season’s clothes and items out and store the rest. It’ll make your life simpler, and your space feel less squished.

Color Is A Game-Changer

Believe it or not, the colors in your space can make a huge difference in how big (or small) it feels. Using lighter colors can reflect light and make the room feel airy and open. Conversely, darker colors can make your space feel tiny and cramped.

Also, don’t be afraid to play with mirrors. You can strategically place them to reflect light and space, creating the illusion of more room.

Embrace Being Minimal

Minimal doesn’t have to mean sterile or boring, and it can really be a blessing when working with tight quarters. So, think about what you love and what makes you comfortable, and find a way to incorporate that into your design.

Adding personality with accents like a quirky lamp, a colorful rug, or an interesting piece of art can add character without cluttering. Finally, choosing quality over quantity and investing in pieces that you really cherish (and that will last) can elevate your space.

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Katharina Buczek graduated from Stony Brook University with a degree in Journalism and a minor in Digital Arts. Specializing ... More about Katharina Buczek

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