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Upsizing isn’t always the best answer. A lot of the time a few simple tweaks are all you need to make your home feel roomier.
Before assembling the moving boxes, try these nine savvy tips and tricks.
1. Take stock of your space
First things first, figure out where you feel the most cramped, why you need more space and what it will be used for. If you’re after more room in the kitchen, removing a wall to create an open plan living and kitchen area could be the solution you’re looking for.
2. Make your rooms multifunctional
Having separate rooms for the laundry, study and bedrooms might be unnecessary. Think about how often you use these rooms and if combining the functions of two is possible. For example, many homes have a study that rarely gets used. Is there another area or nook in your house that could fit a desk?
3. Add an extra bathroom
Growing families and one bathroom is a recipe for arguments. Adding an ensuite or extra bathroom not only gives you more space, but it will increase the value of your home. Boost your house value even more and install a gas hot water system. Although initially expensive to connect, they are a lot cheaper to use. Remember, it takes a lot of power to run an electric hot water system. So making the switch could save your household a lot of money.
4. Storage, storage, storage
Pretend your home is a studio apartment and you’ll quickly realise what your place needs … that’s right, storage! Repurpose any unused areas, either with shelves or cabinets and put them to work. Don’t forget the garden. Sheds or bike storage areas can be a cost-effective way to organise and store items that you need but don’t necessarily use all of the time. In the bathroom, a medicine or storage cabinet with a mirror can keep your toiletries hidden.
5. Install sliding doors
Sliding doors are an instant space saver for small homes. While they are becoming more popular for bedrooms and studies, they also perfect for wardrobes, kitchen cupboards and ensuites. Let’s face it; an outward opening door can be extremely restrictive.
6. No clutter!
It’s a tough job, but decluttering your entire house will be worth it in the long run. You’d be surprised at how much stuff families collect that has no use or purpose. The trick moving forward, though, is to consider all future items before bringing them into your home. After all, you don’t want to end up back at square one.
7. Ditch your coffee table
The coffee table is a space sucker, but removing it can completely open up a room. Side tables will do the same job using less space.
8. Convert your garage
Now that your house is free from clutter and other useless things, the space in your garage that’s usually reserved for storage can be used for something else. A popular option is to convert the garage into a living area, either separate from the house or by knocking through a wall into an adjoining room.
9. Functional furniture
When trying to create more space, multifunctional furniture will be your saving grace. The sofa can pull out into a bed, and an ottoman with a storage cavity can be used to organise spare blankets. Be picky about what furniture you have in your living areas and if you really need them.
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