Nothing is more joyous than the thought of a new addition to the family. That is, until you have the acute realisation that space is already at a premium.
With average UK house prices at an all-time high, relocating to a larger home is simply not an option for many. Instead, it is a case of making the best possible use of what little space you have available.
This is something that can be accomplished in a variety of ways, without resorting to major renovations. More affordable and less disruptive than relocating, each of the following could help you accommodate your growing family while keeping everyone happy:
1. Focus on Space-Saving Furniture
First up, upgrading to furniture that is designed to take up less space is a good place to start. Typical examples of which include folding chairs or an extendable table, which can be kept out of the way when not in use.
In addition, look for furniture and fixtures that serve a dual purpose. For example, a bench of footstool that can also be used to store things neatly out of the way. Where space is at a premium, keeping clutter to the bare minimum is essential.
2. Ditch as Many Decorative Pieces as Possible
On that note, it could be time to think about removing or rehousing anything that doesn’t serve a practical purpose. This is particularly important for any free standing ornaments and fixtures, which could be occupying precious floor space.
It’s a question of knowing where to draw the line between form and function. You still want your home to look the part, but making things as practical as possible should be your priority.
3. Make Better Use of Your Bedrooms
Think about it – does it really make sense to allocate the largest bedroom in your home to just two people? Chances are, you’ll find it far more practical and convenient to have a couple of your kids share the master bedroom.
It’s the norm for younger kids to share a bedroom, so why not give them a little more room for manoeuvre? In doing so, you stand to benefit from more storage space and less of their bits and pieces cluttering up the rest of the home.
4. Consider a Cost-Effective Conversion
Converting an attic or a basement into a fully functional living space can be surprisingly affordable. It can also be a home improvement that pays for itself, making a significant contribution to the market value of your home.
This is by far the most cost-effective option for creating an entirely new living space. It is also one that rarely necessitates planning permission, and can be completed within a matter of days.
5. Rent a Storage Locker
Clearing out the home to create more space does not have to mean throwing out or giving away your possessions. One option is to rent a storage locker, which can be used to safely store anything you don’t genuinely need right now.
Storage lockers are available for a low monthly fee, with flexible contracts available to suit all requirements. Often the next best thing if you do not have a garage, shed or similar storage space available at home.
6. Aim For a More Minimalist Theme
A home that contains nothing that does not need to be there need not be bland or boring. In fact, the minimalist approach to interior design can be incredibly desirable. It can also make everyday household chores significantly easier – the less you have about the place, the less there is to clean.
Again, remember that clearing out your home and going minimalist doesn’t have to mean giving up the things you love. You can simply store them off-site, until a time comes when you have space to accommodate them once again.
7. Ensure Everything Has its Place
Last but not least, the key to maintaining domestic bliss in a home with limited space lies in making sure everything has its place. As previously touched upon, this is where intelligent storage solutions can make all the difference.
In the kitchen, bathroom and living room in particular, allocating a specific place (ideally out of sight) to everything that isn’t nailed down is advisable. As is getting all members of the household into the habit of putting things away properly, after using them.
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