Modern properties are getting smaller. Most of us will need
to make the most of smaller rooms in our homes. Sometimes inspiration isn't
easy to come by so here are our top ten ideas for both
tenants and landlords on making the most of any small space.
The first rule is that you don't want to do anything which could
put your deposit at risk. So, no hammering nails to hang pictures or drilling
holes for shelves. And definitely no painting the walls in a
garish shade of purple. However, this does restrict you somewhat.
Easy ways to make a small space seem bigger are to hang
mirrors and paint the walls. Neither of which you can do. But there are other simple and inexpensive ‘tricks’, you can use to make the most of any small space. Here are our top 10 tips on doing exactly that:
1) Striped rugs. It's amazing how effective this is. A large
striped rug has the effect of making the space seem longer.
2) Hidden storage. Use tables or occasional furniture such
as an ottoman in a bedroom which includes storage space.
3) Choose one large piece of furniture. A sofa will actually
make a room seem less crowded than two or three chairs.
4) Let in loads of natural light. Rip those nets down. Lots
of light and a view out of a window increases the perception of space.
5) In the bedroom make full use of a headboard. A headboard
can include shelving and storage space and takes up far less space than
standalone units do. Also, a freestanding mirror can create an impression of
space without having to hang it on the wall.
6) Still in the bedroom. Buy a bed with under bed storage.
Not a divan, but one which lifts up to reveal hidden storage. You can get so
much more in there than a divan. And it frees up more space in the room.
7) Cut down on the clutter. A few pieces on shelves or tops
of cupboards will enhance any space. But lots of cluttered ornaments and
knickknacks can shrink a room very quickly.
8) Go minimalist. Building on the no clutter theme as in try not to cram too much furniture into a small room. Less is more. If there is just
you at home do you really need a sofa and a couple of chairs? Can visitors make
themselves at home on foldable chairs which can be easily stored away?
9) Selective lighting. Instead of relying on a single
overhead light use lamps to create pools of light around the room. This will
create an illusion of space.
10) Choose your furniture wisely. Extendable tables, storage
beds, low profile sofas. Use utilitarian
furniture when possible - a table can be used as a desk for example.
Space, or the sense of it, is an important selling point
when you or your agent are conducting viewings. Here are ten simple low maintenance tips to make the best use of space in any
small room in your rental.
1) Paint in neutral tones. The lighter the walls the more
spacious the room appears to be (at least when it's empty).
2) Although your tenancy agreement may prohibit renters from
hanging mirrors there's no reason why you can't do so yourself. A large mirror
in the living room will make it seem so much bigger.
3) Don't use blinds which hang halfway down a window. And
never hang net curtains. You need as much light as possible flooding in to
enhance the feeling of spaciousness.
4) If you add shelving to any room use floating shelves. The
difference between the usual fixed shelving and floating shelving is astonishing. Position the shelves higher
up for maximum effect.
5) Paint the ceiling. Extending the wall colour onto the
ceiling makes any room look taller and bigger.
6) If you're letting a furnished property pull the furniture
away from the wall. It sounds counter-intuitive but backing a sofa against a
wall makes a room look cramped.
7) In very small rooms keep things off the walls. Shelves or
even wall art can make a very small room close in around you.
8) Recessed ceiling lights are a great way to increase the
sense of space.
9) Box in radiators. A bare radiator seems big and ugly in a
small room.
10) Don't forget the garden. Trim bushes and hedges to
increase whatever space you have outside.
The little extras which can tip the scales in favour of one property over another. Here are a few other things to bear in mind when choosing your new home.
