Whether it's for budgetary reasons or simply to enjoy a cozier existence, many people these days are realizing it's time to downsize and moving to smaller homes.
While the home you downsize to may have less physical space, you can still enjoy a spacious atmosphere if you employ a few simple tips.
While you will certainly save money by downsizing your home, many people choose to downsize for reasons far beyond just saving money.
For some, the huge advantage of downsizing is the process of sorting through their possessions in preparation for the move and getting rid of unnecessary things. For other people, it is easier to take care of a smaller house especially if their children are grown and have "left the nest."
In any case, downsizing can be a great way to turn a new leaf, but even if this new leaf is "smaller", it doesn't have to feel that way!
Tricks for Tables
Coffee tables are great when you have lots of extra space, but for smaller rooms, you can use ottomans or cushioned step stools to serve the same purpose. Best of all, they're a lot easier to move out of the way as well as provide additional seating when you need it.
For your dining room or kitchen, invest in a table that has a fold-out or extension option for when you're receiving guests.
Another great idea is to use round tables instead of square ones. You'll save yourself from accidentally bumping into a sharp corner and it'll be much easier to slide into chairs when you've got a round table.
Where appropriate, consider translucent acrylic or glass tables as they will not block your line of sight and make the room look more airy and open.
Smart Storage
If you feel like you have too many items for the space available, consider holding a garage sale, donating them to charity, or giving them to friends, coworkers, and family.
But if you want to keep your items, consider investing in smart storage solutions, including:
- plastic bins that can slide under beds/furniture
- additional shelving
- using the area underneath stairs
- built-in storage/wall insets that slide out
- organized racks for shoes, ties, and other items
- dividers for your drawers
The Right Floor Plan
Another great idea is to make smart use of the right floor plan, one that includes areas beyond living spaces. This means taking advantage of spaces like a garage, closets, and pantries. Many of today's modern homes come with an open floor plan design that gives you the flexibility to customize it to your needs.
For other homes, investing in some light remodelling like converting an unfinished basement into a finished, livable space is a great way to get more room with little cost. You can also convert your garage into a second living room, spare bedroom, or "man cave" with a fairly minimal effort.
Understand How to Use Lines
Using vertical lines or building elements will naturally make the room feel bigger than it actually is. This can be accomplished by using striped wallpaper, exposed wall beams, and taller furniture like big headboards and bookshelves.
Another way to use lines intelligently is with diagonal lines on your flooring, whether it's with throw rugs and carpets or with the flooring material itself. If diagonal lines aren't an option, make sure your flooring runs parallel to the longest side of the room.
Use Colours Correctly
Neutral colours and shades of white give the eye a feeling of openness and expansiveness. Matching your wall and treatment colours with your furniture is a great way to add spaciousness to any room.
Choose Dual Use Furniture
When space is truly at a premium, find intelligent ways to get multiple uses out of your furniture. For instance, a bookcase can also double as a headboard and a small stepladder can serve excellently as a nightstand.
Double Your Hooks
If you don't have the space to store all your outerwear and other clothing on hooks, consider installing two rows of hooks instead of the traditional one. Place the lower row of hooks high enough that coats or other items won't drag on the floor and the top row is within easy range of your household's shortest adult.
Get Creative With Closets
Closets don't just have to be used for storage. If you need an extra desk or work area, consider installing shelving in your closets to make extra office space. As an added bonus, it'll be easy to "close up" at the end of the day!
Diagonal Drawers
Especially in small kitchens, diagonal drawers are a great solution for tight spaces. You'll probably have to pay for a professional to install them, but you'll be doubling your storage space while saving yourself a lot of frustration.
Consider the Vertical
If you're out of floor space, consider furniture and furnishings that make smart use of the available vertical space. If you have kids, consider bunk beds, but even single beds can be elevated above a desk, dresser, or other space closer to the floor.
Floor to Ceiling Curtains
For drapes, curtains, and/or blinds, another great way to increase the illusion of space is to hang them directly from the ceiling.
Moving into a smaller space is a great opportunity to give you a fresh start.
When downsizing your home, consider saying goodbye to items you no longer use or need, and make smart decisions about how to store and display the items you do want to keep.
With a little planning, you can make even the smallest spaces feel spacious and roomy.
