How to Make the Most of Small Home Spaces on a Budget

Small home spaces are actually more inexpensive because there is less square footage to heat and cool and property expenses such as rent and/or mortgages associated with smaller living space may be cheaper. In Japan the average square footage of living space is considerably smaller to that of North America but the living space has been maximized through a number of techniques.

Dual use furniture and furniture aesthetics

Dual use furniture is another way to maximize on space. Futons can become couches during the day and pull-out couches can accommodate guests over holidays or other times without requiring additional bedrooms. Also, tables that are strategically placed in the home can double as work space and eating spaces. Some tables with folding flaps, and add on pieces may also be of benefit when expanded space is needed only temporarily. Furthermore, chairs that aren't bulky but are also comfortable can be useful both in terms of space, design and dcor appearance.

Shelving

Shelving is a great way to maximize home space. Some shelves have doors which also hide the contents giving the impression of tidiness and a clutter free environment. Particle board shelves make use of horizontal space that may be otherwise unused and can be purchased for reasonable prices at various discount stores, clearance sales and some thrift shops.

Lighting

Overhead lighting can reduce the space needed for lamps and other floor based lighting fixtures thereby freeing up valuable space in a small home space. While it may be too expensive to install inset lighting, shop lights can be installed quite inexpensively for $10.00-$20.00 depending on where they are purchased. What's more fluorescent shop lights use less electricity than conventional bulbs i.e. about 40watts per light which have an output equal to or greater than incandescent bulbs.

Appliances

Smaller home spaces can benefit from custom, space saving and electricity saving appliances such as tankless water heaters and half-size fridges, dryers etc. Although there may be some up front cost with these items the reduction in energy costs and increase in utilizable space may pay off via tax benefits, aesthetic happiness and operating costs. What's more, if one lives in walking distance of a grocer, one can shop twice a week and have more consistently fresh food.

Sell unneeded items

The need to be a pack rat is somewhat a thing of the past. That is to say, with the wide availability of goods at affordable prices the only need to save items is if they are being used or will be used significantly in the future. For items that take up space that aren't being used it may be useful to simply sell, or give them away. This can help add a little extra cash to one's wallet and clear up valuable space.

Deciding what is needed and what isn't involves thinking about what is sentimental, what is useless, what is potentially not needed and what is needed. Chances are there's something in the home that isn't necessary such as a fifth pocket calculator, an old computer monitor, unused furniture that takes up space etc.

Small living space can be utilized well, it is done in smaller European countries and Japan already. By purging unnecessary items, cost effectively arranging and utilizing furniture and lighting and trading or selling large appliances for smaller ones, the benefits can be visible and even reduce monthly expenses. The effects could make one's living environment more pleasant and one's budget a little larger.