Assess Your Space
Before implementing storage solutions in a small space, I first take time to thoroughly assess the layout and dimensions of the room. I measure wall space, consider traffic flow patterns and furniture placement, and identify any nooks and crannies that could potentially house storage. Taking stock of the existing storage helps me identify areas that need improvement. I also think about how I want to use the space and what items I need to store. This helps me determine the best storage solutions for my needs and maximize every inch.
Use Vertical Space
One of the best ways I maximize small spaces is by using vertical storage. Floor space comes at a premium in a small area, so I take advantage of vertical real estate. Some excellent vertical storage ideas include:
- Wall mounted shelving and cabinets
- Multi-level hanging rods and shelves in closets
- Tall bookcases and storage cabinets
- Over-the-door hooks and racks
- Floating wall mounted desks, nightstands and vanities
- Baskets mounted on walls to hold small items
- Ladder shelves mounted vertically against a wall
Going vertical with storage helps me get things up off the floor and out of the way. I can store more while keeping a room looking and feeling open.
Optimize Closet Storage
For small spaces short on closet space, I optimize my closets by ensuring every inch gets used efficiently. Some smart closet storage ideas I implement are:
- Hanging shoe organizers on the back of the door to hold accessories, toiletries, medicines, etc.
- Tiered hangers that allow multiple garments to hang from one hanger
- Modular closet organizers with adjustable shelves and drawers
- Hidden compartments at the top or bottom of the closet for storing out of season clothes
- Strategic use of space above doorways or under sloped ceilings
Customizing my closet storage helps me neatly arrange clothes, linens, and other essentials.
Use Dual Purpose Furniture
One of my top tips for maximizing small spaces is selecting furniture that serves more than one purpose. Some excellent multipurpose furniture choices include:
- Ottomans or coffee tables with hidden storage inside
- Beds with storage drawers built into the base
- Dining tables that fold down or expand to save space
- Desks with shelving above to also act as room dividers
- Sofas with chaise lounge sections that open to reveal storage
This smart furniture gives me extra storage without taking up additional floor space. The right dual purpose pieces keep rooms free of clutter.
Add Multipurpose Storage Furniture
Specialized storage furniture is ideal for maximizing organization in tight spaces. I incorporate creative multi-use storage furniture like:
- Entryway benches with lift-up lids to hold shoes, bags, gloves, etc.
- Media cabinets with specially sized shelving for electronics, gaming systems, DVDs, etc.
- Kitchen carts with storage drawers and shelves on wheels for extra workspace and storage
- Headboards with built-in shelving for books, clocks, photos, etc.
- Storage ottomans that slide under coffee tables when not in use
This furniture stashes items right where I need them. The specialized compartments keep everything organized and accessible.
Incorporate Hidden Storage
For a clean, uncluttered look, I integrate hidden storage areas. Excellent hidden storage ideas include:
- Storage baskets under sinks, beds, and other furniture
- Pull-out drawers built into kitchen cabinets and other casework
- Flip-up lid desk surfaces revealing storage for office supplies
- Secret compartments hidden behind mirrors, art, bookcases, and wall panels
Hidden storage offers discreet, out-of-sight spaces to tuck away everyday items and valuables. The rooms stay tidy since items are not left out on counters or surfaces.
Use Creative Display for Collections
Small spaces often mean limited options to display meaningful collections and cherished keepsakes. Some creative ways I display special items in my home include:
- Shadowboxes to showcase small keepsakes like retro toys, pins, or souvenirs
- Photo ledges mounted on walls to hold favorite framed photos
- Floating wall-mounted shelves perfectly sized for prized figurines, trophies, etc.
- Magnetic strips to display kids artwork and photos without puncturing walls
- Decorative racks for displaying rolled maps, artwork, or homemade crafts
The visible displays let me appreciate my collections every day without taking up prime storage real estate.
Pare Down and Organize Your Belongings
The first step I take to maximize my space is going through everything I own and purging what I don’t use or need. I am ruthless about only keeping items I honestly love and use. For what remains, I group like items and find creative storage solutions. Some helpful organization tips include:
- Categorize items, like hobby supplies, papers, cooking utensils, etc.
- Designate a spot for frequently used items to always return them
- Label storage bins and shelves so anyone can put things away properly
- Invest in stackable storage bins to double vertical storage
- Purge seasonally so closets and cabinets don’t overflow
Remaining intentional about what I keep and put away keeps my home tidy and less stressful.
Final Thoughts
The key to maximizing small spaces is fully utilizing every bit of available storage. I get creative with shelves, cabinets, furniture and closet systems tailored for efficiency. Compact multipurpose furniture saves space while offering handy storage. Scaling down possessions helps keep rooms feeling spacious. With smart organization and displays, I create a comfortable home despite the compact square footage.