Many of us reach a point in our lives when we feel like our homes have shrunk and we’ve run out of space. If your family has expanded or your needs have changed, for example, you’ve started working from home, here are some easy ways to solve space shortages.

Storage

The best solution for homeowners who are short on space is innovative, intelligent storage. Storage can help you eliminate clutter, free up space and make the most of every inch of room you have available. There are myriad ways you can store stuff. From clothes and shoes to toys, books, tools and outdoor furniture, it’s wise to make sure you have sufficient storage and that you explore storage options before you buy. Making use of the walls is one of the best space saving ideas for small rooms. If you don’t have room for sideboards, chests or bookcases, hang shelves, use wall-mounted units and add rails and racks to provide storage. You can even make a focal point out of floating shelves, cubby-hole wall storage and shelves and racks full of kitchen utensils, books and ornaments.

Versatile furniture

Furniture enhances the aesthetic appeal of our homes but it can also play an integral role in helping us create more space and maximise storage. Look for pieces you can adjust and modify, for example, modular seating and side tables that can be used as desks and consider items that have hidden storage. You can buy everything from beds with drawers underneath and TV units with shelves and cupboard space inside to tables that have pull-out drawers.

Maximising the space you do have

If you feel like your home is cramped or there’s not enough room, it’s beneficial to focus on trying to make the most of the space you do have. Moving house or extending might not be an option for every homeowner but there are ways to create the illusion of bigger, brighter rooms and reduce clutter. There are some ingenious hacks to create functional spaces or features that you might not have thought of, for example, using the area under the stairs for a desk for your kids or for working from home or creating an indoor dog house or a mini-library. You can also use the backs of your doors for storage. Hanging coats on the back of the cloakroom door, for example, will free up space without detracting from the look of your kitchen, living room or porch. You can also use nooks or alcoves for storage, to house furniture for working or being creative or to add quirky touches to your home, for example, a bar.

Outdoor structures

If you don’t have the funds or the space to extend your home, have you thought about adding a structure in the garden? Garden rooms, summer houses and log cabins have become increasingly popular. If you’re working from home or you’d love to have space for a gym, a yoga or art studio or a playroom, it’s worth getting some quotes and exploring ideas. Creating space outside will free up room inside and add value to your home.

Have you run out of space in your home? If so, there are ways to solve shortages without putting a for sale sign up and moving house.

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