1. INVEST IN MULTIFUNCTIONAL FURNITURE
First things first, multifunctional furniture is crucial when it comes to organizing a small space. 'In small rooms, multifunctional furniture makes all the difference,' says Artem Kropovinsky, founder of New York-based Arsight. 'Think of storage ottomans or drop-leaf tables. The brilliant thing is that these pieces are stylish yet flexible.'
2. DECLUTTERING
Clutter is a real problem for small spaces. It builds up without us noticing, and over time just creates a space that feels cramped and full of unnecessary stuff. Start by giving your home a real audit and get to grips with decluttering. Being ruthless is the best way to approach decluttering.
3. USE VERTICAL SPACE
Vertical space should be optimized to make the most of the room you have, and is perfect for apartment storage. From floating shelving that can look charming and decorative, to bespoke storage units that go all the way to the ceiling, to hanging racks that make the most of that awkward space behind doors, vertical space is your best friend and a simple way to organize efficiently.
4. INCORPORATE CLOSED STORAGE
When thinking vertically, always consider closed storage as well as open. Decorative open storage certainly has its place, but it's not a wise move if you are struggling with a small space. While open storage and shelving can look aesthetically pleasing and offer you space to decorate and display your favorite things and items of decor, a mix of closed storage is essential for storing the unsightly elements.
5. AVOIDING BULKY HARDWARE
For a simple change, create a seamless look by ditching bulky handles that take up visual space in favor of tactile pulls that are worked into the material, mimicking the grip of a hand and in this example by Michael Del Piero driving a minimalist mudroom aesthetic.
6. HIDING AWAY ELECTRICAL SOCKETS
Organizing small spaces isn't just about storage solutions – think practically, too. Fitting electrical sockets inside tall cabinets will allow cordless appliances to charge while they’re neatly stored away.
7. CONCEALING BULKY APPLIANCES WHEN NOT IN USE
From hidden larders that shut away with pocket doors, concealing those bulky coffee makers, to disguising your kitchen trash can with a mini curtain, when organizing small spaces, shutting away those bulky appliances is essential, and the kitchen is probably one of the rooms that benefits from this idea the most.
8. MINIMIZING OBSTACLES
Minimize the obstacles you might encounter as you move through the home. A glaringly obvious obstacle we use every day is internal doors. Pocket doors are my favorite way to combat the problem, sliding open without feeling bulky and clunky and creating an uncluttered aesthetic.