Space is often one of the most coveted commodities in the world. According to home advice provider Realm, low-cost home renovation projects that extend living space earn the highest return on investment.
Whether you live in a small studio or a sprawling estate, there are always ways to make the most of your living situation. Here are some tips to help you maximize your residential space, both indoors and outdoors.
Indoor and Outdoor Expansions
1. Convert your garage.
Even if you only have one vehicle, expand your garage into a double-bay garage to have enough space for storage. Build an extra room above it that you can use as a guest room, a home office, or a hobby room.
2. Use your basement.
If you have a basement, use it to your advantage. If it’s unfinished, consider finishing it and adding an extra bedroom, bathroom, or living area. Turn it into a game room, home theater, or bar if it’s already finished.
3. Use your attic.
If your home has an attic, you can use it for storage or extra living space. If it’s unfinished, consider finishing it and adding a spare bedroom, bathroom, or living area. Turn it into a home office, reading room, or craft room if it’s already finished.
4. Get rid of unused rooms.
If you have any rooms that are going unused, such as a formal dining room or living room that you never use, consider turning them into something else, such as a home office or playroom.
5. Use vertical space.
When it comes to maximizing space, don’t forget about vertical space. Utilize shelves, cabinets, and other storage solutions that go up instead of out.
6. Use multipurpose furniture.
Furniture that serves more than one purpose is a great way to save space in your home. Ottomans with storage, fold-out beds, and coffee tables with built-in storage are great options.
7. Get rid of stuff you don’t need.
One of the best ways to create more space in your home is to get rid of stuff you don’t need. Have a yard sale, donate to charity, or simply throw away things you no longer use or need.
8. Keep things organized.
A cluttered and disorganized home will always feel cramped and small. By keeping things organized, you can make your home feel more spacious and inviting.
9. Rent a storage unit.
Consider renting a storage unit if you have stuff that you need to keep but don’t have the space for. That will free up space in your home without getting rid of things you may need in the future.
10. Build an addition.
Consider building an addition if you want to add more space to your home but don’t want to move. You can have an accessory dwelling unit (ADU) in your backyard that is like a complete tiny home in itself. Check your area’s zoning laws first.
11. Add a sunroom.
A sunroom is a great way to add extra living space to your home. It’s also a great place to enjoy the outdoors without dealing with the elements.
12. Add a deck or patio.
Add a deck or patio to your home if you have the space. That will give you additional outdoor living space that you can use for entertaining or relaxing
13. Build an outdoor kitchen.
If you love to cook and entertain outdoors, consider building an outdoor kitchen. That will give you the space and amenities to cook and entertain in your backyard.
14. Add a pergola.
A pergola is a great way to add shade and privacy to your outdoor living space. It’s also a great place to grow vines or hanging plants.
15. Landscape your yard.
By landscaping your yard, you can create additional outdoor living space that you can use for entertaining, relaxing, or even working from home.
Create the Illusion of Space
In addition to adding space, you can also create the illusion of having a more spacious area.
1. Paint your walls light colors.
Dark colors tend to make rooms feel smaller and more cramped. On the other hand, light colors can make a room feel more open and airy.
2. Use furniture that is the same color as your walls.
That will create a seamless look that makes the room feel more spacious. Place the furniture away from the walls to create the illusion of having even more space.
3. Decorate with mirrors.
Mirrors can help to make a room feel more open and spacious. Place them on walls opposite windows to reflect natural light and make the room feel brighter and larger.
4. Install shelves high up on walls.
Install shelves high up on walls so you can free up floor space and make a room feel larger. That is an excellent trick for small bedrooms or bathrooms.
5. Hang curtains high.
Hanging curtains high can make a room feel taller and more spacious. If you have low ceilings, this is a great trick to make your home feel bigger.
6. Use glass instead of solid doors.
Solid doors can make a room feel more closed off. Glass doors, on the other hand, let light pass through and make a room feel more open.
Enjoy Your Space
Maximizing your residential space can be a challenge, but it’s definitely worth the effort. By following these tips, you can create more indoor and outdoor living spaces that you can use for entertaining, relaxing, or even working from home. Which of these tips are you going to try first?
