The Arizona Republic

Some big ideas if you live in a small space

- Rent Smart Courtney Gilstrap LeVinus Guest columnist Courtney Gilstrap LeVinus is president and CEO of the Arizona Multihousi­ng Associatio­n.

Decorating and organizing a small rental home can be fun, even though it’s hard to express your personalit­y or style without feeling too cramped and cluttered.

Movable organizati­on is a small apartment’s best friend. Whether it’s a stylish piece with drawers or hidden baskets in a cabinet, look for double use pieces wherever you can.

In your kitchen, add a cart. This piece doubles as extra counter space, storage and just a cute accent or way to add a pop of color to a small space. If you have a studio or no defined divide between your kitchen and the rest of the room, this piece can act as that as well. You can find carts at a furniture store, or do it yourself with supplies from a hardware store.

You can also add storage bins to your kitchen. Measure above your cabinet and refrigerat­or and find a decorative bin that matches your style to store spices or nonperisha­ble items. Make sure the bin is made of a material that’s easy to clean.

Turning your doorway into an entryway is as simple as a hook and a frame. Hang a couple of hooks or a coat rack on the wall that your door opens away from. Make sure you leave enough room to walk in.

On your opposite wall, hang a mirror or decorative picture. If you have enough room, even put a small table or wall shelf where you can keep keys, your wallet or your purse for easy access on your way out.

If you find yourself running out of room in your bathroom, try the sticky caddies to add extra shelving to your shower, inside cabinets or above your sink. These hookless caddies are great to use as planters all over your apartment as well.

A bathroom is where you also can use a kitchen cart to add extra counter space and extra storage. You can get risers to add a second level to any counter space.

In your bedroom, look for a storage bed. It features drawers or a bed frame tall enough to store containers underneath. Keep off-season decoration­s or clothing in these bins.

Always remember to check with your community manager before making physical changes to your apartment home.

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