At some point, we all find ourselves with a shortage of storage space, even when our homes aren’t crammed with furniture and decor. Before taking on huge renovations, why not first recreate your living space?
- Create illusion
There’s nothing like a strategically placed mirror to make a room look bigger. Don’t go too heavy on the decor; remove something you already have and replace it with the mirror. If you don’t have a mirror, visit flea markets or garage sales to snag a bargain.
Choosing a light colour for the walls and ceiling will help make the room feel larger while increasing light. Opening up the windows and letting light in also helps.
- Rearrange
To lighten things up while increasing storage space, it’s a good idea to try out a few room layouts first. Same sofa in the same spot for years? Now’s the time to try something new.
- Have fun accessorizing to lighten up the room and even create little storage corners.
- Make the most of available wall space by hanging some paintings.
- Install hooks in the hallway and washrooms and behind doors.
- Be creative and take a new look at your environment. Claim any unused spaces that can be turned into handy and attractive storage space, like under stairs, on top of a wardrobe or dresser, beneath beds, under oven, etc.
- Purge
Play devil’s advocate with yourself. From medicine chest to pantry to closet, question the usefulness of the contents and make some room by clearing out.
- Organize drawers by prioritizing anything you use on a day-to-day basis or just about–in the kitchen, bedroom, living room, bathroom and so on.
- Rotate your winter and summer clothes to free up closet space. Hanging on to things you haven’t worn in years? Time to donate them!
- Hand off your old stuff to family members who may be going away to university or moving into an apartment or donate them.
And voila! With just a bit of effort and creativity, you’ve found a budget-friendly way to free up space and made the most of what you already have.
Photo: Thinkstock
Adèle Manseau | Desjardins Group
Source: www.desjardins.com/co-opme