Clutter can creep up fast if you’re busy and space is scarce. But it’s not all about how much room you have in your home. With a just few thoughtful design choices, you can transform any living are into a more open and organised space. Whether you’re renovating or simply rethinking your layout, read on for some smart redesign strategies that incorporate style and storage.
Install custom shelving to make the most of wall space
Start with the walls. Namely, look up and reimagine all that empty vertical space. Floor-to-ceiling shelving units won’t decrease your living space but provide lots of storage for things you don’t need on a daily basis. You can also use them to display decor. This type of shelving is essential for home offices – where space is usually limited, and you have an abundance of books to sort out.
You can also use custom shelving in other spaces such as bedrooms. Here, they take the form of wardrobes with adjustable shelving to keep clothing and other things tidy and tailored to your needs.
Get furniture that does double duty
Think of multifunctional furniture as a stylish way to magically create space out of thin air. For example, ottomans with hollow interiors are great for stowing away blankets or kids’ toys. Coffee tables often come with sleek drawers to hide away magazines, drink coasters, and other items. Dining areas are ideal for multi-use furniture – from tables that fold away, to benches with seats that lift up to reveal space for linens or extra tableware.
Use built-in storage to transform unused areas
Look around your home for nooks and crannies that you can reinvent with built-in units. The area under the stairs is a favourite place to redesign into a storage area – you could build in some drawers or make it into a cupboard. Alcove shelving also makes good use of the awkward parts of living room walls – use it to store books and other items. And don’t forget spaces like shower stalls – solutions such as recessed shelves, which are built right into the wall, are a great way to keep toiletries close at hand without taking up any room.
Maximise garage wall space
Don’t let your garage turn into a dumping ground. Install wall-mounted racks and shelving to keep clutter off the floor. Hooks are essential in a garage – so put up as many as you can for hanging up tools and outdoor equipment. Use more robust hooks and racks for heavier items such as bikes and DIY tools.
Rethink your garage door if you want more usable space. For example, switching to a roller garage doorprovides a vertical opening which increases both floor space and overhead room.
Make space work for you
If you want to create more living space, there’s no need to add an extension, or move to a bigger house. Just look around for opportunities to creatively transform empty space into storage. These four smart design ideas will make your home instantly feel calmer, tidier, and far more functional.
