Smaller homes and apartments need to be more ordered than larger family homes. If your home isn’t feeling as functional as it should, there are plenty of ways to utilise every last centimetre of space. From reflective surfaces to using dead space, these space-saving hacks will change things for the better.

1. Back to basics
Look at your space as if there is no furniture there – how best could you utilise it, ensuring it serves you well? Are there any awkward features you can remove? What little flow you do have, ensure it is smooth and easy. “When dealing with a small home, you need to look at it as a blank canvas and reflect on whether your existing furniture is right for the space,” says Laura Heynike, director of Pocketspace Interiors. “Some items might be too large, too short or too small. Getting your balance right is a key priority, and your small space requires you to curate it with care.”

2. Smart storage
Innovative storage is vital for making a home feel uncluttered and open. Katie Scott, director of Sticks and Stones Design, says it allows for less clutter, plus the rooms will feel bigger: “Storage units and cabinetry that reach to the ceiling will use dead space sometimes left with standard-height cabinetry.” If you have an attic space, utilise it, adding a ladder for easy access for items you use rarely. Laura suggests adding a built-in wall storage system to your lounge wall. “If the TV is wall-mounted, it will free up space,” she says. “Use spare wall space to store concealed items in drawers, balanced with exposed shelving for decor. Keep an eye out for space above door frames or behind beds that you can utilise too.”

3. Listen to your heart
Accommodating practical space solutions doesn’t mean you need to forgo your favourite tastes and aesthetics. Your home still needs to bring joy and reflect who you are…

