Tiny houses have become increasingly popular in recent years as more people embrace minimalist living. The average tiny house is between 100 to 400 square feet, compared to the average American home which is over 2,600 square feet. While tiny house living isn’t for everyone, these small spaces are filled with smart solutions for maximizing every inch.
Even if you don’t live in a tiny house, you can steal these 7 brilliant space-saving tips to make the most of your home.
1. Edit and Organize Your Belongings
The first step to creating a functional small space is to be ruthless about editing your belongings. Go through everything you own and ask yourself – do I use this? does it bring me joy? Donate, sell or trash anything that doesn’t measure up.
Once you’ve pared down, invest in organizational systems to keep clutter contained. Try using clear plastic bins, baskets and storage cubes to corral items. Label containers so you can find things easily.
Decluttering and organizing ensures you make the most of every storage nook in your home.
2. Make the Outdoors an Extension of Your Home
Tiny houses often have small or non-existent backyards, so utilizing the front porch and nearby green space is key.
Create comfortable, functional outdoor living areas with weather-resistant furniture, rugs, lighting, and greenery. Having an outdoor space to spread out will make your interior feel more spacious.
3. Incorporate Vertical Storage with Loft Beds
Most tiny homes maximize vertical space with loft beds above the main living area. You can take advantage of the space beneath a raised bed in several ways:
- Install pull-out drawers for storing clothing and linens.
- Use the area for workspace storage, with a desk and filing cabinets.
- Add open shelving to display books and decorative items.
- Use storage benches or trunks that double as seating.
Loft beds efficiently utilize prime real estate that would otherwise go unused.
4. Embrace Open Shelving for Storage and Decor
Tiny houses utilize open shelving to store necessities while adding visual interest.
When using open shelving:
- Curate a collection of books, plants, photos, art, and accessories to personalize the look.
- Use baskets, bins, and canisters to corral small items out of sight.
- Place frequently used essentials within easy reach.
- Anchor taller shelves securely to the wall.
Strategic open shelves contribute both form and function in a small space.
5. Place Furniture Thoughtfully to Maximize Floor Space
Every piece of furniture needs to earn its place in a tiny home. When shopping for smaller-scale furniture, consider:
- Multipurpose furniture like storage ottomans, fold-out coffee tables, and built-in banquettes.
- Narrow, shallow pieces can tuck against walls, allowing traffic to flow freely.
- Custom-built furniture designed specifically for your nooks and crannies.
Also, pay close attention to furniture placement and walkways when arranging rooms. Follow the natural traffic patterns through your home.
6. Look for Hidden Storage Potential
Some tiny homeowners get creative when it comes to stash spaces. Look for potential storage spots:
- Under the stairs
- Inside window seats and banquettes
- Underneath or behind furniture
- Inside bathroom vanities or kitchen island sides
- Inside closet door panels
Repurpose these hidden cavities with custom built-ins or ready-made insert cabinets.
7. Seek Out Small-Space Design Tips
If you need more tiny home inspiration, there are great resources available:
- Browse small space furniture and organization ideas on Apartment Therapy.
- Look through the small space section on HGTV.
- Check Pinterest for tiny home decor concepts.
- Flip through Instagram using #smallspaceliving.
Embracing small space solutions from the tiny house movement can make your home, no matter the size, more functional and livable. Try out a few of these space-saving tips to transform your abode.
