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Anyone who’s ever had to deal with a tiny apartment knows that small space living comes with its own set of challenges. It doesn’t mean designing these spaces is impossible. With a little planning and forethought, even the most cramped spaces can become equal parts functional and eye-catching.
Here are five space saving ideas to try:
1. Combo washer and dryer
With cities becoming more crowded and our homes getting smaller, creating a useful and multifunctional space is essential to everyday happiness in the home. Every square metre counts! Usually, small apartments will have the washer on the floor with a dryer above, taking up prime potential storage real estate. By thinking outside the box and getting a washer/dryer combo, you can save half the space which allows for extra cupboards or shelving above. It can also fit neatly under a kitchen benchtop or in the bathroom and no need for a separate laundry. The Choice recommended Bosch washer dryer offers great efficiency and convenience. Featuring AirCondensation Technology you will save on running costs as no water is used during the drying process. The SelfCleaning Condenser™ automatically cleans itself and keeps the dryer running at peak efficiency at all times.
2. Get rid of any unnecessary walls
If you own your apartment or small space, consider a minor renovation. Every centimetre of extra space is a bonus in a small kitchen so by knocking out the dividing wall between the kitchen and laundry area you can gain an extra benchtop space. Before tearing anything down, check that the wall you want to knock down is not load bearing and also if it contains any electrical or plumbing before you start. If it does, consult the experts!
3. Multi-functional furniture
Clever decorating is the key to helping minimise clutter, so it’s important you invest in pieces with built-in storage. Investing in multi-functional products and furniture is a great idea when limited on space. A stack of stools that can transform into a makeshift side table or a kitchen island that doubles as a coffee/dining table. Use your imagination, and the options are endless.
4. Colour scheme
Limiting your colour palette to three hues creates a clean, cohesive look. You can try combining bright and neutral shades to create harmony and contrast. Add patterns and natural materials within your colour palette. The colours will tie them together, while the different sizes will help create indirect interest. Texture brings it all together & using natural materials like jute, rattan & stone helps to unite your palette and patterns all while adding soft warmth to your room.
5. Add some personality
Customise your storage solutions to work with your wall space and the items you want to display. Not only will this produce more storage, but will create a visually compelling and fun space in your home. Open shelving or glass doors are good options to make a small room feel bigger. It also means you have easy access to things you use every day and can be used as a feature to display books, vases or other ornamental items.
Just because your space is small, it doesn’t mean you have to forfeit the things you like. Don’t be afraid to put your treasures on display! The trick is to put your belongings or accessories into groupings by pulling together objects that are alike. This will help create symmetry and balance within your space. Another option for a sleek and stylish look is to create a gallery wall or make use of hooks and rails to keep your things in order.
Living in a small space is tough, but with some extra thought and smart planning it can be a whole lot easier.
Important to note:
If you are planning to renovate your apartment or townhouse that is part of a strata scheme, you are required to notify the Owners Corporation of any potential structural changes to the property by no later than 14 days before commencement of the work, pursuant to section 116(2) of Strata Schemes Management Act 1996.
The Law: Section 116(2) of the Strata Schemes Management Act 1996 states that:
The owner of a lot must not alter the structure of the lot without giving to the owners corporation, not later than 14 days before commencement of the alteration, a written notice describing the proposed alteration.
Notice: A notice must be in writing, addressed to the Owners Corporation, and contain a description of proposed works that you are intending to carry out at your property.
Your first step is to contact the strata managing agent and enquire as to the further steps you need to take to serve a valid notice on the Owners Corporation.
Structural Changes: The law requires you to notify the Owners Corporation if your renovation works will make any structural changes to the property. An example of structural change may include the following:
- knocking out a wall;
- works affecting the appearance of a building;
- works involving damaging/addition to common property; and
- works effecting changes to floors, walls, ceilings, roofs, balconies, pipes or ducts.
Other important things to note:
Insurance: If the total costs of your renovation works is over $20,000 and the renovation works were carried on or after 1 February 2012, your builder is required to provide an insurance under the Home Building Compensation Fund. If the total costs do not go over the threshold of $20,000, there is no legal requirement to obtain one.
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