These Smart Solutions Can Help You Maximize Small Spaces
Don't let a limited floor space stop you from enjoying your home
Living in a tiny home—whether it’s a compact condo unit or a very small apartment—can be challenging, but it shouldn’t stop you from creating a space where you can relax and do the things you love. Instead of looking at tiny spaces as a burden, consider it as something that can help you exercise your creativity and resourcefulness. Remember, unexpected solutions can make a difference. Let these ideas found in the homes we’ve featured inspire you:
Create a living area and bedroom in one.
Interior designer JL Sunga of Upcycle Manila cleverly maximized this 26sqm condo unit by working with two beds. While we're used to seeing daybeds and sofa beds in compact homes, JL opted to place two beds that can accommodate guests during the day. Sprucing it up with pillows and throws creates the feel of the living area. When nighttime comes, the two can be combined to create one huge bed. By opting for this solution, you can use the space as a living area and as a bedroom, too.
Consult with a professional to see how you can incorporate a rotating partition.
In the same unit, JL was still able to carve out an entertainment nook where the owners and their guests can watch TV. Since the unit is small, it's quite impractical to install two TVs.Â
The solution? A rotating partition! A portion of the partition separating the entertainment nook from the main sleeping space can be rotated to allow the occupants to catch up on their favorite shows whether they're in the sleeping space or entertainment nook. JL used the blank space to display prints as well to keep it from being too plain. The said design hack keeps the cords and wires in place as well.
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Hidden storage solutions can help you save space.
We're sure you've seen it all—hidden niches, built-in cabinets, and even corner shelves incorporated into the smallest of nooks. These storage solutions allow you to keep things in place and maintain the orderly look of your home. Aside from these tried-and-tested must-dos, see how you can turn a short flight of steps into instant drawers. If this is not possible for your space, hidden compartments under the bed and in between shelves can work their magic as well.
Customized pieces are your best bets.
Customized pieces may be a bit pricey, but they are worth it. A slim dining nook can still function as storage as seen in the unit designed by interior designer Willie Garcia. Wood pallets were used to create a dining/shelving nook. Though slim, the piece can accommodate two people, while the space underneath can be used to store a variety of knickknacks.
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Collapsible pieces of furniture can maximize space.
How many times have you seen magical beds that can be tucked away easily or tables that can be expanded and folded when needed? In this condo unit, architect Mary Bocalid and the owner wanted to create a versatile space that can function as a dining area, a home office, and even as an entertainment nook. To do this, they added a detachable part of the desk that can be used as a table extension when needed, while a portion of the countertop can be pulled to create an instant dining table.
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Make the most of the available vertical space.
Who knew that a loft can be incorporated into a studio unit? Interior designer Nikki Audine cleverly maximized the available space by removing the built-in cabinet under the sleeping space and creating a living area/reading nook instead. After the unit's renovation, the place looks brighter, more open, and inviting.
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