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Saturday, November 2, 2024

Creating space for more activities

Photos supplied

The desire for a spacious, well-organised home is universal. But let’s face it, extra square meterage is a luxury not all of us have or can afford.

However, don’t worry. A smaller space doesn’t mean you have to compromise on style or functionality.

Below we explore some simple, cost-effective, and stylish ways to maximise the space in your home.

Floating shelves

A staple when it comes to space-saving. They’re easy to install, require minimal investment, and offer functional storage while adding aesthetic charm.

They can be used in the kitchen for spices and such likes, in living spaces for books, vases, photo frames, candles etc and in the bedrooms for knick-knacks and keepsakes.

I also love floating shelves in bathrooms to accommodate candles, soaps, facecloths and other handy bits and pieces for easy access.

A plant is always a welcome addition on a shelf in the bathroom too.

Multifunctional furniture

Investing in furniture that serves multiple purposes can be a game-changer.

Think of sofa beds, coffee tables with storage compartments like drawers or shelves, or ottomans that can also serve as seating.

These pieces can quickly transform a room’s purpose without requiring additional storage space.

A hinged lid ottoman is very useful for storage of kids’ toys, magazines, even extra bedding.

A chair and hinged lid ottoman in a nursery is not only comfortable and functional for feeding bubs, but provides a space for nappies, creams and other essentials to be right at hand.

Trunks and chest boxes also serve well as coffee tables while adding additional storage and can be placed at the end of beds.

Many modern lounge suites now come with hydraulic arms that lift easily and provide excellent storage under the seating.

Mirrors

They not only serve a functional purpose but also create an illusion of space.

Placing a large mirror opposite a window can bounce light around the room, making it look larger and more inviting.

This trick is not just visually pleasing but also quite affordable and effective. Some mirror designs now even have little built-in shelving. An excellent place for your keys.

Under-bed storage

The area under the bed is often overlooked, but it’s a prime location for added storage.

Opt for bed frames that come with built-in drawers or invest in stylish, budget-friendly storage bins that can easily slide under the bed.

You can store out-of-season clothes, shoes, or extra linens, freeing up valuable wardrobe space.

Wall hooks and pegboards

Don’t underestimate the power of wall hooks and pegboards.

These simple tools can be used in any room to hang anything from coats and hats to pots and pans.

Plus, they come in various styles and materials, so you can choose ones that suit your decor.

Wall hooks are a gem for hanging kids schoolbags too.

Think outside the square. I used this second-hand ladder to style in a restaurant where counter space was at a premium.

It looks super cool, is up out of the way, so doesn’t interfere with a busy takeaway area but also adds the desired styling effect.

Ladders can also be used to hang plants in a bathroom, on a porch, in a sunroom.

I’ve even seen lightweight hammocks hanging in kid’s room to accommodate soft toys.

Vertical garden

If you’re a plant lover with limited floor space, or counter space, consider a vertical garden.

Use a simple wooden ladder or floating shelves to arrange your potted plants upwards, creating a vibrant, living wall.

This adds character to your home without sacrificing floor space.

Our Fair Trade macrame jute plant hangers are ideal too, plus they come from sustainable resources.

Plants in your home will help boost moods, productivity, concentration and creativity.

They also purify the air, reduce stress and fatigue and absorb toxins, increasing humidity and producing oxygen.

From a styling perspective, they really do add life to sterile spaces. Fabulous in bathrooms to add a fresh look.

Open shelving in kitchen

Traditional cabinets can make a small kitchen feel cramped.

Open shelving, on the other hand, offers a more breathable layout. Store your daily dishes, glasses, and cooking essentials on these shelves for easy access and a trendy look.

Foldable furniture

Foldable chairs and tables can be stored flat against the wall when not in use, freeing up floor space.

These are particularly useful in small dining areas or workspaces.

Modern designs have come a long way, offering sleek, aesthetically pleasing options.

Baskets and boxes

A no brainer – baskets and boxes play a huge role in being organised.

They offer a place to throw bits and pieces in and can easily be arranged into a hall cupboard, under a bed, in the garage, laundry and even the entrance way for shoes.

By incorporating these easy-to-implement, stylish, and budget-friendly ideas, you can make the most of your space without breaking the bank.

So go ahead and transform your home into a cosy, organised haven that suits your unique style.

Decorative and functional is a win-win, life will be easier if you incorporate these ideas.

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