Homes, today are becoming a lot more expensive, particularly if you’re wanting to live in a beautiful or central location – meaning people are finding themselves living in smaller spaces, which isn’t a bad thing in itself, but a lot of times, this can lead to families feeling like they are living on top of each other; or even if people live on their own, it only takes a small amount of clutter to make your home feel completely cramped.

This article assumes that you are making the most out of an existing space that you own, rather than looking to build a new property, however, existing spaces can always be remodelled to make better use of space; particularly if you use contemporary architects that are used to the scenario of squeezing the most space from a small home.

Now, presuming you aren’t necessarily wanting to remodel your entire property, and would prefer a few cheap ‘hacks’ this list is for you:

GET MORE STORAGE

There are two aspects to this; firstly, there’s always the option to get more storage in the sense of external storage space.  Whilst this can be a relatively expensive long-term solution, that doesn’t provide value long-term (unlike building an extension to your home) it can be a worthwhile temporary fix, that in reality, doesn’t cost all that much.

Then, the alternative option is to make better use of the storage space you have available, and IKEA is a great place to look for innovative solutions to create storage in small spaces that is otherwise unused; for instance, a unit around the bathroom sink that is otherwise ‘dead space’ can house a number of toiletry products.  It’s about being inventive with your space, stacking things properly, and using space saving devices such as vacuum bags for clothes or duvets you aren’t currently using.

MAKE USE OF ALL AREAS

In addition to making additional storage space from the nooks and crannies of your home, you can install loft boards for your loft  – converting the cavity into a storage unit, that you don’t have to pay for. The process of boarding your loft is not particularly arduous or costly, yet it has several benefits both in terms of storage, and also insulation.

The one thing you will want to do, however, is to make sure the items you’re storing are kept in watertight boxes and lofts can sometimes feel a bit damp and therefore, it’s imperative you keep your belongings safe. The same is true for garages and sheds.

CONVERT YOUR ATTIC

On the topic of lofts and attics, you could use this space to create an additional bedroom, or perhaps a home office.  Converting your attic is a pretty costly activity, but it will provide strong return on investment, in the long run – as you are adding to the asset that is your home, unlike storage units where it’s dead money.

CREATE AN OUTSIDE LIVING SPACE

In summer, we all enjoy outdoor living, yet in the colder months it’s less enticing.  That said, if you have some outdoor heater lamps in addition to decent shelter and some warm, cosy, soft furnishings you can create a year round outdoor space without the need to invest in a conservatory.