Optimizing Small Spaces

The best way to make the most of a small room is to find creative ways to utilize every inch of space. Begin by removing absolutely everything you do not need and finding another place to store those items. Creating a more streamlined space will instantly make it look larger.

Next, it is a good idea to choose one function for a small space and limit the use of that room to that particular function. If it's an office, use it only as an office instead of also using it as a storage area.

Paint the room a bright color, preferably using semi gloss or even high gloss paint to reflect light and give it a bright, airy feel. Paint the ceiling the same color or an even lighter color to draw the eye upward. Make sure the space has plenty of light sources, since light opens up any room. Open those shades or curtains and let the natural light in.

Adding a large decorative mirror will also reflect light, and it does double duty as an art piece. Multifunctional pieces are the best choices for small areas, since they allow you to avoid adding extra pieces that will take up valuable floor and wall space.

For example, a covered ottoman or cube that opens is perfect for use as a table or a place to rest your feet, but it will also work great for storing extra blankets, books, or magazines that you don't want scattered about. You can also utilize the space under large furniture pieces by filling shallow boxes (the ones canned goods come in are perfect) or purchasing shallow storage containers such as those designed for under the bed storage.

Built in floor to ceiling shelves are great in small spaces. Even if you aren't exactly handy, and can't build your own, you can line a wall with ready made bookshelves. They don't take up much floor space and they provide tons of vertical storage. To make them blend in with the wall and keep them from looking bulky, paint them the same color as the wall. Keep shelves tidy with decorative baskets or storage boxes, and always put least used items away on the highest shelves.

Using wall space instead of floor space will make the room feel larger and give it good flow. Hang sporting gear and other bulky items on the wall instead of piling them up on the floor. Don't forget to use corners either. Corner shelves are great areas for storage as well as display.

If you find that your space still looks cluttered, opt for more covered storage. You don't have to build doors for a shelving unit, you can simply cover the opening with fabric or a matchstick shade.

The key to optimizing a small space is making it appear large and open. A little imagination and energy will help you transform that cramped room into a cozy, inviting space.

-Sherry Holetzky

Sherry Holetzky is a published freelance writer who loves do-it-yourself projects and home decorating. Having a large family has taught Sherry to decorate within a budget, and Sherry's hope is that she can show people how decor can be inexpensive yet still be tasteful and beautiful. Budget decor does not have to mean "cheap."