Maximize Space in Your Home

Strict lending standards and bleak economic conditions nationwide have lead to tighter pockets and a strong need to downsize. As a result, the average American household is shrinking in size. But regardless of how small your living space is or for that matter, your budget - there are several ways to convert your modest home into a spacious abode.

1) Instant Clarity
The first step towards maximizing space in your home is to remove any unnecessary furniture from the room. Be reasonable and realistic about what furniture is necessary in your home. Too much furniture can make rooms look and feel cramped.

The arrangement of your furniture is also very important. Create the illusion of space by centering furniture in common areas such as the living room. By allowing the furniture to float in the middle of the room, additional space is created for alternate passageways. This also allows for the eyes to move around the room.

2) Contain The Clutter
Under-the-bed storage bins fit in tight, narrow spots, and many come with wheels for easier access. Cotton garment bags and canvas shelves provide more storage space in tiny closets, and stylish cotton bins provide functional style for bare shelves


3) Smoke and Mirrors
Provide the illusion of maximized space in your home with a well-placed mirror. Floor length mirrors make rooms seem larger than they appear. Place full length mirrors in between shelves and in rooms with limited space.



4) Double-Duty
Multi-purpose furniture, such as a storage ottoman, can be used to stock up extra pillows and throws while serving as a coffee table, storage trunk, foot rest, or extra seating. Sleeper sofas with hidden storage units not only help maximize space in your home, but also provide an extra bed for unexpected visitors.

Unused bookshelves can also provide extra storage space by serving as an additional closet. Rework a pair of sturdy bookshelves into an attractive storage wall by hanging curtains from the ceiling. This will not only cover unsightly storage, but it will also make your ceiling seem taller.

Gain a convenient table top by skirting small cabinets. This works well for repurposing unsightly furniture that’s been through its share of wear and tear but is still functional.

5) Ban All Arms
Choose armless furniture to maintain the feeling of openness throughout the home. Armless pieces allow the room to breathe without creating boundaries.

If you live in an apartment or have a small living room for entertaining--go boho chic! Ditch traditional chairs for fabric covered cushions that make sitting on the floor fun and painless. When they are no longer needed, stacked cushions in pretty patterns can be stashed away or serve as additional home décor.

For more ideas on how to maximize space in your home, check your local television listings for HGTV’s show, Small Space, Big Style—featuring creative homeowners who have made the most out of the limited space in their homes, and more tips and tricks on how to make small spaces seem bigger.