Make small beautiful

Even the most unpromising space can be made to punch above its weight

Space. Every house could benefit from more of it, yet it is a commodity which cannot be conjured up out of nowhere.

Actually, that statement is not quite true in respect of finding usable space within the home, as countless customers of Hartleys Bedrooms can testify.

This Skipton-based company uses smart design in conjunction with years of experience to get the very best out of available space, whatever form, size or shape it might take.

“When it comes to finding space for our belongings, we need to get savvy, particularly in relation to more compact living spaces,” says Hartleys’ Sara Haggas. Here are some of her suggestions.

The box room

Whether it is a genuine spare room or a small bedroom currently surplus to requirements, creative thinking is required to get the best from a box room, especially if it is also intended to serve as an occasional guest bedroom.

Utilise space beneath the bed, through a divan with drawers beneath or a lift-up mattress – ideal for bulky items – and look to bridging units above the bed for storing smaller objects.

“Space-saving furniture is the key to a successful box room,” says Sara. “A wall bed ticks the box on that front, especially if the room is a work-from-home space.”

Porch points

A cluttered porch is neither an efficient use of space nor a welcoming sight to visitors. Industrial hooks, box storage units and a seat with storage beneath are all good ways to boost space and looks.

Handy hallway

Although often narrow and awkwardly shaped, a hallway can nevertheless possess good storage potential.

“The space underneath your stairs is an ideal spot for transforming into tidy storage,” says Sara. “A fitted cupboard will use up the entire area, so you don’t lose vertical space.”

If the hall is wide enough, slimline wall shelving can be very useful, too.

Un-messing dressing rooms

If you are lucky enough to possess a dressing room, it can easily become cluttered, its storage potential overlooked. Bespoke fitted furniture is the most effective answer, allowing the creation of specific spaces for particular items.

“Clothes rails for long and shorthanging garments, shoe racks, wide shelving and even compartmentalised drawers can be included for optimal storage,” says Sara.

Happy home office

Adding home office functionality to a box room, hallway or landing can be achieved through custom-designed furniture incorporating both desk and storage space while minimising impact on other functions of the room or area.

“At Hartleys, our furniture is entirely bespoke,” says Sara. “This means we can design functional furniture which will fit the smallest and trickiest of spaces.”

To book a home visit by a design team member, telephone 01756 700471 or go to www.hartleysbedrooms.co.uk

When it comes to finding space for our belongings, we need to get savvy.