Use the right elements and
clever planning to create a chimera of space within what is an otherwise
crammed area.
In cities where small is big,
space is almost luxurious. Dotted with residential skyscrapers the quest for competence
of space remains invariable in every house-hold. With the right elements and
clever planning, one can create a chimera of space in an otherwise crammed
area. A few smart ideas to utilize space in your home can work wonders.
1. Get
strategic and multi-functional furniture
Opting
for furniture that is not only sleek and comfortable but also provides multiple
usage is a great way to create space illusion. Furniture with casters can be
moved around easily to make space. A sofa-cum-bed, corner desks and bookshelves
are some pieces of furniture that improve the function of small spaces. The
sofas in a living room can be sofa-cum-beds. Easy to pull, comfortable in daily
use, these have functional utilities. These beds can also be used in study
rooms or guest rooms by placing them along one edge of the room that can serve
various purposes at all times.
2. Be
savvy with storage
When it
comes to small spaces smart storage is the key. Using storage areas to their
fullest abilities helps de-clutter your space. Shelves placed inside closets
will allow more room for folded items and those that are not able to be placed
on a hanger. One can also opt for furniture with inbuilt storage to combat
space related issues.
Like
every room in the house, the kitchen too needs space. Drawers that can open
from both sides and floating shelves are a new trend in kitchen design. Line,
items like the microwave, blenders and mixers vertically so it gives enough
room to work.
3. Think
Tall
A space
saving trick: instead of spreading things horizontally, use vertical space.
Racks and shelves can be as tall as the ceiling permits, with the topmost
shelves stocking things only used seasonally. More shelves mean more storage
space, and the elimination of that cramped feeling.
4. Get
Creative
A small
home allows for no wasted space, so be sure to make good use of every corner.
It is important to maximize make your empty corners into something more than
idle spaces. Unique or oddly shaped areas are good locations for built-in
cabinets or display areas. Recessed wall areas/niches can provide decorative
and storage space without intruding into the main living area. Remember, you
have limited space and every square meter should be maximized.
5. Colour
schemes
Areas
of the house that seamlessly flow into each other can be painted with a common
colour scheme. Visually connected rooms will feel larger if they have a common
colours scheme binding them together. It is observed that using lighter colours
makes small spaces appear larger, whereas, darker hues can make the rooms
appear tiny and enclosing. While choosing a colour scheme be sure to do some
research on colour psychology to understand its impact on the inhabitants.
One can
also define individual spaces using artefacts/art work or an accent wall: if
the architecture provides a distinct wall space to accommodate it. Lighting
plays an important role in creating an illusion of space, especially natural
lighting.
6. Unify
the flooring
Use of
one pattern/style of flooring throughout your living space or at least
adjoining rooms can create a greater sense of continuity and connectedness.
This is really useful if you have an open layout and your floor plan is small.
7. Let the
eye travel
Mirrors
and transparent decorative items crate a sense of greater openness. A mirrored
wall is a great way to open up a small space. The reflective surface creates an
optical illusion of having double the space than that is actually there. One
can consider glass topped tables, clear acrylic chairs and glass fronted
cabinets thereby minimizing the use of heavy, dark, wooden objects. Do not
overlook the importance of this tool in optimizing your living space.
