In theory, a smaller purse = less time spent trying to find things in it. But in reality, it takes about the same amount of time to find your house keys/credit card/lip balm as it did with a larger purse, because you just changed the size of the space you have, not how you actually utilize the space.
The same idea applies to our homes. In small homes, it’s especially important to maximize the space as much as possible without making things feel cluttered or cramped.
Lol, easy right?
But it can be easy. You know we love a “work smarter, not harder” moment, so below, we gathered the best tips and items for easy, breezy small-space living.
1. Small lighting swaps can make a big difference.
One of our favorite tips from HomeTok: Never use the big light (aka the ceiling lights). Instead, create a cozy ambiance with alternate light sources like lamps, sconces, LED strip lights, and puck lights.
Assembled Ceramic Table Lamp Gray
Price: $30
Threshold
Battery Operated Wall Sconces (Set of 2)
Price: $30
Tivkight
Puck Lights (Pack of 6)
Price: $22
Helplex
Led Lights
Price: $18
Tenmiro
2. Keep the floor clear.
Make the most of your wall space with storage options like hooks, over the door organizers, and shelves. This keeps the floor from feeling small and cluttered.
Shelf with Hook
Price: $21
H&M
Over The Door Hooks
Price: $18
Hamsily
Home Vertical Hanging Coat Rack
Price: $24
Yamazaki
Wall Shelves (Set of 3)
Price: $22
Bayka
3. Do the same with countertops.
Create more space in a small kitchen with storage options that keep essentials within easy reach without cluttering the countertops.
Single Rail Wine Glass Holder
Price: $10
DecoBros
Under Shelf Wire Basket (Pack of 2)
Price: $21
Tebery
Mug Storage Tree
Price: $20
Urban Outfitters
Magnetic Paper Towel Holder
Price: $12
East to West
4. Choose multi-functional items.
A bench that doubles as storage? A vertical trash can? We say yes to space-saving designs.
30060 Intelligent Waste Totem Max Kitchen Trash Can and Recycle Unit with Compost Bin
Price: $130
Joseph Joseph
Folding Storage Ottoman Bench
Price: $67
Songmics
Wood Lift Top Coffee Table with Hidden Compartment and Adjustable Storage Shelf
Price: $100
WLive
5. Seriously, use every inch.
Those “there when you need them, easy to put away when you don’t” items.
Wood Stove Top Cover with Handles
Price: $80
Gashell
Small Space Wall Mounted Drying Rack
Price: $35
Brightroom
6. Hang curtains as high as possible
Installing floor-to-ceiling curtains is one of those things that doesn’t sound like it would make a big difference, but holy sh*t it truly does. (Need proof? See here and here.)
Dauntless Curtain Rod
Price: $36
Project 62
Natural Linen Curtains 102 Inches Long (Set of 2 Panels)
Price: $40
Loyolady
Curtain Rings with Clips (Set of 20)
Price: $9
Curtain Clouds
7. Get thee some peel-and-stick accents.
Peel-and-stick wallpaper and tiles are less commitment than permanent installations and can be used to dramatically change the look of a room, giving it a more open aesthetic. Just be sure to carefully read the instructions.
Arugula Peel & Stick Wallpaper
Price: $45
Chasing Paper
1-Sheet Peel and Stick Backsplash
Price: $8
Art3d
Peel and Stick Wall Molding Package
Price: $155
Birdeco
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