- Research shows that about one in four adults in the United States live in a house too small for their needs.
- To maximize limited space, organize and declutter items and use multi-functional furniture such as sofa beds and storage ottomans.
- Storage spaces such as cabinets, drawers, under-bed storage, and hidden shelves can provide extra room without moving or adding additional rooms.
- Repurpose existing rooms in the home by installing insulation and other necessary components to create a functional living area.
Ensuring it fits your family’s present and future needs is essential when looking for a home. A home should be comfortable and functionally usable for the whole family. Research shows that about one in four adults in the United States are living in a house too small for their needs, according to a survey by the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB). This can lead to overcrowding and stress, affecting physical and mental health.
Additionally, having enough space is essential when accommodating guests or hosting events such as birthdays and other celebrations, among other reasons. In a study by the American Institute of Architects, 63 percent of respondents said they would prefer more room if they moved.
It is also essential to ensure enough room to store belongings safely and securely. According to research conducted by StorageFront, an online self-storage market, 70 percent of Americans feel they have too much stuff in their homes. The lack of storage space has led 24 percent of people surveyed to rent additional storage units offsite, costing them around $94 each month on average.
However, you might not have the means to move, forcing you to use your current home best. Here are a few tips to help you get the most out of a small house:
Organize and Declutter
Organizing and decluttering can help create more space in your home. Start by inventorying your items and removing anything you no longer use or need. Ensure you donate or recycle any items in good condition instead of throwing them away. Consider using multi-functional furniture such as sofa beds and storage ottomans to make the most of limited space.
In addition, try reorganizing furniture and arranging it in a way that maximizes the size of the room. Move furniture closer together and away from walls to take up less floor space while allowing for more effortless traffic flow between rooms. Place taller pieces at the back with shorter ones on either side for balance, and add accessories like area rugs to add visual interest.
You can also utilize vertical space when organizing your home. Install shelves on walls to store books, artwork, decorations, and other smaller items off the ground. Adding hooks behind doors or over windows can save valuable floor space while providing additional storage options.
By taking these simple steps to organize and declutter your home, you can create more usable space without moving or adding extra rooms – saving time and money!
Storage Spaces
Storage spaces are a great way to create extra room and organize your home. Custom storage solutions can provide additional space for items that would otherwise take up valuable floor space. Here are a few storage spaces to consider and where to consider installing them:
Cabinets and Drawers
Cabinets and drawers are an excellent way to store items neatly and out of sight. Consider installing custom cabinets and drawers in bedrooms, bathrooms, closets, kitchens, and garages.
Under-Bed Storage
Under-bed storage can add space for extra items such as linens, seasonal clothing, toys, books, etc. Ensure you use clear containers with labels so that your things are organized and easily accessible when needed.
Hidden Doorway Shelves
Consider installing hidden shelves behind closed doors in the hallway or living room to store books, decorative accessories, game consoles, or any other small items taking up valuable floor space.
Garage Cabinets
Garage cabinets are a great way to create additional storage without adding extra rooms to your home. Consider installing custom cabinets and shelves in the garage for easy access to tools and other supplies.
By adding storage spaces, you can create an efficient organizing system that allows you to make the most of a small house without moving or adding extra rooms – saving time and money!
Repurposing Rooms
Unfortunately, your need for space might involve dedicating an entire room. That situation can occur when welcoming a new child or creating a home office. Repurposing rooms is an excellent way to make the most of available space. Here are a few ideas for repurposing existing rooms:
Basement
The basement is the most flexible room in the house, often used for laundry or storage. If you plan to convert the area, you can get basement remodeling services to finish the job. Consider creating a family room, playroom, second kitchen, or even an extra bedroom, depending on your needs.
Attic
The attic is another area in the house that can be easily repurposed. Commonly used for storage, consider transforming it into a home office or guest bedroom to accommodate visitors. You may need to install insulation and other necessary components before converting the space into a usable living area.
Garage
If you have an attached garage, you can use it as an extra living space without needing renovations. Make sure to eliminate any clutter and set up the furniture to make the space functional and comfortable. Consider installing walls or adding curtains between rooms if needed for more privacy.
Final Thoughts
Having enough room for your family is essential. If you don’t have the means to move, consider taking advantage of available storage spaces and repurposing rooms in your home. This can help make the most of a small house – saving time and money! However, constantly research local building codes before changing your property. With careful consideration and planning, you can get the extra space you need without moving or adding additional rooms.
