Decorating a Small Space to Make it Feel Larger | Declutter
As our society becomes more urbanised and environmentally conscious, the trend towards living in smaller spaces has become increasingly popular. Decorating a small space can be a challenge, especially when you are living in it day in and day out. As someone who also lives in a small space, and has done so for many years, I know how important it is to make the most of every centimetre! Whether you are living in a studio apartment, a small house, or just have a tiny room that needs some love, there are plenty of ways to create a beautiful and functional space that feels like home.
In this blog series, I will share 5 tips for decorating a small space based on my own experience and research, from choosing the right colours to making wise furniture decisions. By the end of this series, you will have plenty of ideas for making your small space feel open, airy, and organised, so let's dive in!
In this first installment of the series, I want to talk about one of the most important aspects of living in a small space: staying on top of clutter. When you are living in a tiny space, it is essential to make the most of every bit of available space, and clutter can quickly take over. From clothes to kitchen appliances, it's easy to accumulate more than you need in a small space. By taking a proactive approach to de-cluttering and organising your belongings, you can create a more spacious and functional living environment.
Photo by Halfpoint/Adobe Stock #415768077
5 Tips for Decorating a Small Space to Make it Feel Larger
1. Avoid clutter and keep surfaces clean and organized - post continues below
2. Use colour wisely - blog post here
3. Choose furniture that is appropriately scaled for the room - blog post here
4. Incorporate reflective surfaces into your decor - blog post here
5. Use decorative baskets and storage containers - blog post here
Bonus post: Decorating a Small Space to Make it Feel Larger | Lighting - blog post here
Decorating a Small Space to Make it Feel Larger | Declutter
In a small space, clutter can quickly accumulate and make the room feel even smaller. It can also make it difficult to move around and cause unnecessary stress. It's important to keep surfaces clean and organised to create a sense of order and spaciousness.
Here are some tips for keeping surfaces clean and organised in your small space:
a) Purge regularly: Make a habit of decluttering regularly. It's easy for items to accumulate in a small space, so set aside some time each week to sort through your belongings and donate or discard what you no longer need. This will help keep your space clutter-free and organised.
b) Go digital: Consider scanning important documents and storing them electronically instead of keeping physical copies that can take up valuable space. This includes old photographs and recipes!
c) Create designated storage spaces: Create designated storage spaces for items such as books, papers, appliances, and electronics. Use bookcases, shelves, and storage containers to keep items organised and out of sight.
d) Use storage containers to keep items organised. You can use clear containers or label them to make it easy to find what you need.
e) Use dual-purpose furniture: Dual-purpose furniture, such as a storage ottoman or a bed with built-in drawers, can provide extra storage space while also serving a functional purpose.
f) Shop wisely: Invest in quality pieces that will last, rather than opting for cheap items that will need to be replaced frequently. By buying once and buying well, you can avoid accumulating clutter and create a more cohesive and functional space.
g) Minimize decorative items: While decorative items can add visual interest to a space, too many can make a small space feel cluttered. Choose a few statement pieces and keep the rest of the decor minimal.
h) Visit the local library: One way to minimise clutter from books is to use the library instead of purchasing and storing books in your small space. Books can take up a lot of space, so it is important to be mindful of how many you bring into your home. Consider only keeping a small selection of your favourites and regularly donating or selling books you no longer need.
i) Use vertical storage: Utilise wall space by installing shelves or hooks to store items vertically, freeing up floor space and keeping clutter off surfaces.
j) Clean surfaces regularly: Dust and clean surfaces regularly to keep them looking clean and polished. A clean and clutter-free space can instantly make a small room feel larger. Limit the number of items you keep on counters and tabletops and put items away after using them.
k) Stop spending: One of the easiest ways to avoid clutter is to stop buying unnecessary items. Before making a purchase, ask yourself if the item is truly necessary and if it will add value to your small space. By being mindful of your spending habits, you can prevent clutter from accumulating and keep your small space organised and tidy.
Keeping a small space clutter-free requires effort and discipline, but the benefits are worth it. By adopting the tips discussed above, such as using storage containers, avoiding unnecessary purchases, and regularly de-cluttering, you can create a more organised and spacious living environment. It may require some work, but the end result is a more functional and enjoyable space. Remember, each item you bring into your space takes up valuable real estate, so be mindful of what you choose to keep. With some effort and smart choices, you can transform your small space into a cosy, clutter-free oasis.
I hope these tips help you keep your small space organised and enjoyable. Be sure to check back next week, where I will share advice on how to use the power of colour to enhance your small space.
