How to maximise small spaces

spaces can SMALL be some of the most impactful and eye-catching. Here are some ways of maximising small spaces and making your home stylish, as well as functional.

Mirrors work wonders

A clever use of mirrors in a small space will instantly make it appear bigger, opening it up and making the best use of light. Choose neutral tones

Neutral colours work well alongside natural light and will fool the eye into thinking there is more space than there actually is. Keep the main colour scheme simple and throw in some subtle textures and patterns to add a bit of variety.

Choose alternative pieces for the kitchen

If you are working with a small kitchen space, opt for a retro fridge freezer rather than an imposing modern one — older styles tend to be smaller. Benched seating is a great option for your dining table. These classic seats fit right under your table and that means you can push your table flush against a wall between uses. For more storage, a mid-century sideboard is the perfect choice. These narrow dressers are great for making the most of any additional space. Their sliding panels and multitude of drawers are ideal for neatly storing away items such as crockery, while giving the illusion of more space.

Light up your walls

Wall-mounted lights are a great design feature for a small space, bringing in muchneeded light, as well as reducing the need for additional tables to hold lamps.

Make the most of your storage Make the most of any cupboards or storage units you may have in your kitchen. If you have an abundance of herbs and spices, there are handy organisers that can keep them neat and tidy. If you have empty wall space, add some helpful shelves that can house mugs, plates or jars. Butcher’s blocks are another traditional and popular way of storing spices, cooking equipment and cans of food. Many of these are wheeled, making your kitchen more dynamic and flexible.

Think less is more

Want your room to be impactful, but not too busy? Many people think smaller furniture is the obvious option, but this often results in a cluttered feel. Opting for bigger furniture, but with fewer pieces will create the impact you are looking for and will not clutter the space.

Use the area under the stairs

The space under your stairs is ideal for fitted storage, or even a small workspace. A fitted desk could be the perfect home for your family computer or a quiet place for children to complete their homework.

Take things all the way up

If you have limited floor space but higher ceilings, make sure you take things all the way up. Floor to ceiling curtains will elongate the room and you can make clever storage use of the gaps above kitchen units and bookshelves.

Customise

This is where you can get really clever. Instead of relying on the design specifications of manufacturers, customising your own furniture will ensure it is bespeaking for you and your life. This could include maximising storage, creating dynamic workspaces that fold away between uses or adding additional shelves and rails into discreet nooks. You could also consider installing fixed seating rather than having too many chairs.

Invest in functional furniture

Where possible, choose furniture with a dual purpose, such as a bed with storage underneath. Look at the space you have and consider how furniture will improve the functionality of the room. For example, perhaps two smaller coffee tables would be a better option than a large and imposing one. This way, one of them can be moved around, providing better flexibility. It is all about working with what you have, taking these basics into account and understanding what works for you, your life and your home. — Wires