Living in the UK, especially in the city of London, we know large and spacious living can come at a cost. It’s no wonder that it’s becoming increasingly common to live in small apartments or houses. But often, it can feel like a game of Tetris when moving in and decorating, however, with a little creativity and strategic planning, you can transform your small living space into a functional and stylish oasis.
Here are a few of our top tips to maximise your living space.
1. Light & Mirrors
Lighting can play a significant role in making a small space feel larger. Allow natural light to filter in by using sheer curtains or blinds that can be fully opened during the day. Place mirrors strategically to reflect light and create an illusion of depth. Mirrors can also give the impression of more space by visually expanding the room.
2. Decluttering
Often, this can be one of the number one reasons why our living space can feel cramped. Managing which items are in use and which should be in storage is a good place to start for decluttering. A great way to do this for example is to pack away winter clothes in a suitcase and place them in a storage box under a bed, in a cupboard, or in a loft (if you have one) during summer – and vice versa during winter.
We also recommend hosting an annual Car Boot Sale to rehome items you no longer want – it’s a great way to make a little extra cash and find a new home for the items you no longer use.
3. Optimise Your Furniture Selection
Opt for multi-functional furniture, rather than opting for single-use pieces, such as a sofa that can double as a pull-out bed or a coffee table with hidden storage compartments. Consider investing in space-saving furniture like wall-mounted desks, folding chairs, or nesting tables that can be tucked away when not in use.
4. Wall Hooks
This is a great solution especially in the bathroom, whether you need space to hang your towels or you’re looking for a place to hang up your coat, wall hooks are your answer
5. Make Use Of Vertical Space
When it comes to storage, our first thought goes to floor space and we can easily forget about wall space, this is often where a lot of potential can lie. For example, why not take advantage of walls by installing shelves, floating bookcases, or wall-mounted storage units? These provide extra storage space for books, decorative items, or even kitchen supplies.
6. Use Transparent Or Lucite Furniture
Transparent furniture, such as acrylic or lucite chairs and tables, can be a great option for small spaces. These pieces have a minimal visual footprint and create an illusion of openness. They allow light to pass through, making the room feel less crowded and more spacious.
Maximizing your small living space is all about smart planning, creative solutions, and efficient use of every available inch; embrace the challenge and let your creativity flow to make the most of your space.