Living in a smaller home can come with its challenges, but it doesn’t have to mean sacrificing on storage and organization. Making the most of any restricted space requires the development of clever storage solutions (and we’re here with clever storage hacks!), and having an ordered home will make life simpler. Read on as we provide our top advice for homeowners looking to maximize their square footage because there are many of ingenious ways to make the most of small rooms that aren’t too complicated or expensive!
Table of Contents
15 Creative Smart Storage Solutions for Small Spaces
Floating Shelves
Floating shelves are wall-mounted storage solutions that create the illusion of being unsupported by visible brackets.
To effectively use floating shelves, first identify the items you wish to display or store on them. This will determine the appropriate size and strength requirements. Place the shelves at different heights for added visual interest.
They can be utilized in the living room to showcase books and decorations, in the kitchen for dishes or spices, or in the bathroom for toiletries.
Fold-Down Furniture
Fold-down furniture is a general term for adaptable furniture that, when not in use, are simple to fold. So these little bad boys adjust to different functions and needs. To use fold-down furniture, simply unfold it when required and fold it back up afterward.
For example, a fold-down table can serve as a dining table, work desk, or craft station, depending on your needs. Fold-down chairs can also be stored flat against the wall to maximize space.
These furniture items are perfect for turning small apartments (or even big apartments) or studios into multipurpose rooms.
Hanging Organizers
Storage devices known as hanging organizers are made to hang from doors or walls. They have numerous pockets or compartments for holding various objects. To utilize a hanging organizer, attach it to a suitable spot such as the back of a door or inside a closet, and categorize your belongings into the available spaces.
In closets, bathrooms and kitchens (and even bedrooms if you’re creative enough), these organizers are useful for keeping accessories, toiletries, shoes, and pantry items. They provide an easy-to-use organization hack that makes everything readily available.
Hidden Storage
Hidden storage refers to cleverly concealed storage spaces within furniture pieces or design elements. This includes beds with drawers underneath, ottomans with concealed storage (fun fact: most ottomans have this), and more.
Find furniture with built-in storage, such as ottomans, mattresses, or coffee tables with secret drawers or compartments, if you want to use concealed storage. Hidden storage options keep your room looking tidy while reducing clutter and offering plenty of storage.
Cabinet and Drawer Organizers
Your cabinets and drawers can hold more items with the help of cabinet organizers. They provide pull-out racks, stackable bins, and dividers. Start by emptying your cabinet or drawer and selecting the items you want to store.
After that, organize your goods using the organizer that best meets your needs and available space. To ensure simple access, these organizers can help you organize kitchen tools, workplace materials, makeup, and more.
Pegboards
A pegboard is a flat board with a regular pattern of small holes for pegs used to hang items. Attach it to a wall and add hooks or containers as required. Pegboards can be extremely handy for hanging pots and pans in kitchens, organizing supplies in craft rooms, and storing tools in garages. They keep things close at hand and efficiently utilize wall space.
Rethink Your Kitchen Island
The kitchen island frequently acts as the center of activity in a house by giving a place for cooking, eating, and socializing. However, its potential for offering extra storage is often overlooked.
Utilizing base cabinets to build your kitchen island is a practical approach to optimize its usability. For a variety of products, including pots, pans, and small appliances, these cabinets offer plenty of storage space. To make the most of this solution, consider the items you frequently use in your kitchen that could be conveniently stored in the island. ByBy doing this, you not only free up space in other kitchen areas but also make sure that everything you need for baking or cooking is close at hand.
By including base cabinets, you can change your kitchen island from a basic work surface into a useful and well-stocked focal point.
Door-Mounted Shoe Racks
These door-top storage options have spaces for numerous pairs of shoes and dangle over the top of the door. To utilize a door-mounted shoe rack, simply hang it over the top of your door and arrange your shoes. They are ideal for places with limited floor space, such as small bedrooms or entryways.
Lazy Susan Corner Cabinet
The Lazy Susan corner cabinet is a remarkable option for organizing those difficult-to-reach corners of the kitchen. This smart design has rotating shelves that make it simple to access objects that are stored and eliminates the difficulty of reaching into tight areas.
Pots, pans, and canned goods are just a few of the items the cabinet may hold. Depending on your kitchen’s layout, you can choose a Lazy Susan model that best fits – kidney-shaped for double folding door cabinets or half-moon for single-door cabinets.
Vertical Garden
A vertical garden allows for the cultivation of plants on a vertically inclined surface. To create one, choose a wall or fence, hang planters at different heights, and plant your favorite greenery. This is a great way to add some natural beauty and a distinctive decorative element to a tiny balcony or patio.
Convertible Sofas and Murphy Beds
Murphy beds and convertible couches are smart options for making the most of space in compact living spaces. During the day, they serve as comfortable seating or a stylish cabinet. At night or when an extra bed is needed, they transform into a cozy sleeping area. For studio apartments or guest rooms, this functionality is great.
Overhead Garage Storage
In garages or workshops with limited floor space, overhead storage racks can be a game-changer. These ceiling-mounted racks offer a safe storage option for items like holiday decorations, sporting goods, or camping gear. They preserve important floor space for other uses, including parking.
Nested Furniture
Nested furniture consists of multiple pieces that fit neatly inside each other. For instance, nested tables or stools can be stacked together when not in use, saving space while still offering the flexibility to expand when needed. These pieces are perfect for entertaining in small living areas.
Under-stair Storage
If your home has a staircase, consider utilizing the space beneath it for storage. To make the most of this sometimes neglected space, you can install custom-built cabinets, drawers, or open storage. It’s a great place to keep shoes, books, or even set up a comfortable reading corner.
Sliding Barn Doors
Instead of traditional swinging doors, think about installing sliding barn doors. These doors slide horizontally along a track, saving space compared to doors that swing open. They can offer a chic touch to your interior decor and work great in bedrooms, baths, or closets.
Should You Consider a Self-Storage Unit?
While it is important to optimize your small living space with clever storage solutions, there may be times when considering the rental of a self-storage unit can be advantageous. Here are various situations and scenarios in which a storage facility can prove to be a practical and strategic addition to your small living area:
Seasonal Storage Solutions
If you find yourself dealing with limited closet space due to seasonal items such as bulky winter coats, holiday decorations, or patio furniture, a storage unit can provide a convenient off-site solution. This allows you to rotate your seasonal items as needed without overcrowding your living space.
Home Renovations and Remodeling
It’s important to protect your possessions from dust, debris, and potential damage when remodeling or renovating your home. During construction, renting a storage container provides a safe location to keep furniture, appliances, and other items.
Downsizing or Moving
Whether you are moving to a new place or downsizing to a smaller house, you often need to store extra items temporarily. In order to save sentimental belongings without filling up your new area to the brim, a storage container can help.
Extended Absences
For frequent travelers, individuals on work assignments, or those temporarily residing in different places, a storage unit can serve as a reliable solution for protecting possessions during extended absences.
Hobbies and Collections
Enthusiasts with extensive hobby equipment, collectibles, or memorabilia may struggle to accommodate these cherished items within the confines of a small living area. A storage unit provides a dedicated space to house these passions without compromising your living space.
Business and Inventory
Small business owners or entrepreneurs can benefit from the additional storage space provided by a storage unit. It is a practical solution for storing excess inventory, documents, and supplies, ensuring a more organized workspace. Some storage facilities provide services allowing you to ship your package to a storage unit, which would make the process of attending conferences and conventions much easier.
Bottom Line
We know too well the challenges that come with trying to increase storage in small living spaces. Many clients go on this expedition in quest of workable solutions to make the most of their constrained square footage. There are times when there is simply not enough room for everything.