Dear Storage Seeker:
My family and I live in a small house. It’s not quite a tiny house, but it’s not exactly large either (1200 sq ft for four people). We are short on space and wondered how to maximize our living arrangement. Moving is really out of the question, and I feel like we have taken over every square inch. No area is unused. Please help!
Thanks so much,
Tiny Living in Big ‘Ol Texas
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Dear Tiny Living,
Many people are choosing to live small. We completely understand. It is far more affordable than living in a bigger space. Here are three simple tips to help you and your family maximize your space.
1.) Set time aside each day to de-clutter and organize your home.
We strongly recommend that you take some time each day to go through one area of your home for at least 15 minutes. As you do, determine what you should keep, what you should donate, and what you should just throw away. Believe it or not, many of these items that are taking up space within your home are things you don’t even need. Consider renting a local self-storage unit for items that you do need but are simply too big. Examples include holiday decor or sports equipment. The affordable monthly rates are well worth the extra expense (which will cost you far less than moving). Just be sure to keep your unit organized, too.
2.) Utilize your furniture as a storage spot – thinking outside the box.
When making furniture purchases, choose pieces that serve a dual purpose by providing you with more options to tuck away belongings within your home (eliminating clutter). Many furniture pieces offer additional storage options, such as couches or tables with storage components or beds that have drawers or space for bins underneath. Believe it or not, many people are even building stairs that serve as pull-out, hideaway drawers – providing them with storage in what would otherwise be unused space. So, the possibilities are truly endless!
3.) Lookup for other places to store items, not just at eye level or below.
When people look for places to store things within their home, they look eye level and down, rather than eye level and above (where there is usually plenty of room for storage). So, look up and determine where you can utilize extra shelving for bins and hooks, which will keep your home looking neat and organized. Better yet, find artwork that can serve as a storage option as well, giving you more places to put your belongings (without appearing as if it has a storage purpose).
By taking a little time to de-clutter, renting a self-storage unit, and getting creative with your furniture and spaces above, you can get your home working well for you in no time. And just remember – it doesn’t matter how big your house is; what matters is the love you and your family share within it.
