In a TIGHT SPOT
There’s no need to skimp on style in small spaces with our 15 efficient storage solutions and smart design ideas
An open secret
Fitting open shelves right up to the ceiling and across the top of a window will cleverly make the most of all available space in a small kitchen where there isn’t room for accessible wall cabinets. Traditional butler’s sinks can now also be found in neat sizes to suit reduced and slimline spaces.
Deep down
A deep bath, especially a classic hip-bath, gives extra depth to make up for a shorter length – perfect if you don’t want to be limited to a shower in a small bathroom.
Be seated
Some built-in benches offer storage underneath. Pull-out drawers may be more convenient because they’re easier to access without disturbing the cushions.
In the rafters
A platform built under the eaves provides a gallery sleeping space for occasional use. This is especially fun for children who are old enough to use the ladder safely.
Hall clear
Where there’s no room for a hall stand, fix a peg rail for coats and hats. A bench beneath provides basket storage – plus a cushioned seat for pulling boots on and off.
Double decking
Built-in bunkbeds, which double the sleeping space in a small bedroom, are cosy and companionable for children – especially when re-imagined as pirate ships or castle ramparts. Painting walls and woodwork in space-creating shades of light blue and white will help to make the room feel bigger, too.
Niche style
A chimney breast alcove can hold a full stack of firewood, saving chilly trips outside to restock. A high-level shelf keeps display items safely out of the way of the fire.
Glass act
Mirrors are useful in a small bathroom or cloakroom for creating the illusion of more space. Here, an oval glass reflects a bold scheme and throws intriguing shadows against the wall.
Cabinet secrets
Built-in cupboards can help turn awkward angles and sloping ceilings into practical space while keeping the whole effect streamlined. Where there’s limited room for freestanding chairs, a windowseat provides a place to perch as well as more storage.
Hidden assets
Installing flush-fitting, wall-mounted taps helps to conceal the unattractive clutter of pipework and drainage outlets. Here, the construction also creates an integral shelf above the sink. A peg rail on one wall and open ‘box’ shelves beneath the sink keep essentials handy – useful for a small kitchen, and in utility and boot rooms.
Cupboard love
Built-in wardrobes create a full wall of storage for clothes, with space for storage or display items on top. Here, the wall and ceiling above have been papered for extra impact.
Slide rules
Sliding doors and heavy curtains provide dividers where there’s no room for a hinged door to fold back. Here, a panelled partition creates a sleeping area with integral shelving.
Inside story
Compact shelving for essentials is revealed inside the door of this butler’s pantry, part of the Whitstable kitchen from the Country Living Collection at Homebase (homebase.co.uk).
Foot work
The Charlbury pinstripe storage footstool, from the Country Living Collection at DFS, has useful space inside for books, small games or work-in-progress knitting (dfs.co.uk).
Curtain call
Heavy grain sacks threaded onto rails become curtains to conceal clutter and appliances in a neatly designed ‘boot room’ or utility area off a hallway or kitchen. The low-level Belfast sink is recessed between two cabinets, with an additional curtain hiding the pipework and creating extra storage for practical utensils.