I’m an interior designer- here’s how to maximise space even if you live in a tiny house
A LACK of space and storage is one of the biggest problems people face when it comes to their living areas - regardless of how big a flat or house they have.
But do you know what to do to maximise the space you do have to ensure a clutter-free and calm living environment?
It doesn't have to be as hard as you think, and even if you do have a lot of 'things' there are ways to make even the tiniest of houses feel spacious.
Here, Manaal Raja, Creative Director of , says: "Space is one of the most sought-after commodities these days.
"Whether you’re in a modest studio flat or six bedroom detached house, clever storage solutions and ways to maximise space are one of the main requirements from my clients.
"A tidy home is most certainly a tidy and happy mind and when you live in a small home, it does not mean you have to have less things.
"Being clever with how you use and design the space around you is key to living a more stress free, uncluttered life."
'Every item should have a home'
Firstly, it's important to think about where every single item in your home should 'live'.
Manaal says: "Add baskets to hide more messy items like the endless amount of chargers and papers we all seem to have.
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"This is vital when you live in a small space and for it to not feel overwhelmed with things and clutter.
"If you’re investing in bespoke joinery, make sure to think about what you will be storing in that particular place and alter shelf sizes accordingly.
"Every item should have a home."
Aim high
If you don't have much floor space, it's important to keep it as clear as possible, and maximise storage in other areas.
Manaal says: "My main trick is to use the walls.
"Especially if your home is lacking in square footage, don’t just think about storage at horizontal level, but use the whole height of the room as well.
"Shelving around doors and entryways are ever popular these days and give you so much space for books, your favourite vases and even plants."
Camouflage colour trick
To give the illusion of space you can also try this crafty camouflage tip.
Manaal adds: "Another cost-effective trick is to paint doors, skirting and woodwork in the same colour as the walls.
"I often paint built-in wardrobes in the same colour as the walls to create a unified look and the feeling of space."
Dare to be bold
It can seem like a scary move, but adding a splash of dark paint can also help.
Manaal says: "On the topic of paint and colour, people always seem to be afraid of painting small spaces in a dark colour, but I love doing just that!
"Painting a cloakroom in a dark bold colour or using vibrant patterned wallpaper in a small space is brilliant for distracting the eye from the fact that it’s a small space.
"Instead, creates a moody, quirky atmosphere."
Glossing over the issue
Being clever with reflective surfaces can also open up a room too.
Manaal says: "Using gloss paint rather than matt is a great cheap way to bounce light off the walls and surfaces, creating a feeling of space.
"Mirrors help with this too – large mirrors over fireplaces, adding them to panelled walls or wardrobes will create the feeling of endless space. "
Multi-talented
With a smaller space, every piece of furniture needs to be carefully picked, and justify its place in the home.
Manaal explains: "If investing in new pieces of furniture like a bed or sofa, try and get it to work double hard for you if you live in a small space.
"A great solution to the endless amount of storage we all need are ottoman beds.
"No matter what size your home is, everyone needs a storage bed.
"Space under the bed is often wasted and this will give you a place for storing your summer/winter wardrobe, suitcases or extra duvets and bedding.
"If lacking bedrooms, having a sofa bed is always a good idea."
Think smart
Clever storage choices that make the most of little pockets of space in your home - for example under the stairs or in alcoves - and keeping on top of clutter are sure-fire ways to help add the illusion of space.
Manaal says: "The most important thing to remember when trying to maximise space is to be clever with it.
"Think about how each and every piece can work doubly hard for you and be multifunctional, where every item will be stored.
"Regularly declutter your home, only keeping items that are useful or make you feel happy."
A tip for toiletries
If you want to add your own stamp and are prepared to rummage for the perfect piece of furniture, vintage storage can be a cheap, and unique way to add storage too.
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Manaal adds: "For bathrooms, I love finding a vintage cabinet and turning into a vanity unit.
"This is a super cost-effective way of having lots of storage space for toiletries and will also add a wonderfully unique look to your bathroom."
