Based on a survey by the National Association of Home Builders, 63% of Americans nowadays would consider living in a house that’s less than 600 square feet. This growing demand for small homes stems from the young home buyer’s preference for denser, more urban homes that are within walking distance to shared amenities, and the older homeowners desire for smaller, less maintenance-heavy and more accessible homes as they age. As small homes become more and more common, here are some ideas on how to make the most out of them.
Opt for double-duty furniture
When space is limited, choosing furniture that has more than one use is always a good idea. This step could be as simple as using a bench that has hidden storage as a coffee table, so you get storage, table and seating all in one piece of furniture. Other highly functional options include sleeper sofas, fold-out desks, bookshelves that can function as room dividers, and many other furnishings that can be used for more than one function.
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Use cavity wall insulation
Insulation needs to be a priority during the building of a small home, as this is an area that many owners can incur extra expenses. Just because the space is small and easier to heat, it is still wise to save money through good insulation practices. Cavity wall insulation is when the cavities between two walls are filled with materials that inhibit heat transfer. HomeServe’s detailed guide to cavity wall installation outlines that there are currently three types of material available: urea formaldehyde (UF) foam, mineral wool, and expanded polystyrene beads. Each of these methods will reduce the chance of rot and water damage during the colder and wetter months. When your insulation goes into your walls, it also takes up less space, which is crucial for smart homes looking to maximize their usable area space.
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Add an addition
One of the best ways you can transform your small home is by having a home addition. Home additions give you more space without costing you too much. While many Americans now prefer small homes, they do appreciate additional space that can house extra family members and be rented out to generate income. As shown in our post ‘Best Small Home Additions Ideas’, home addition comes in various designs, sizes and structures. For instance, if you love basking in the heat of the sun or want to have more natural light in your home, the Frameless Glass Box Design might be perfect for you.
Use wall space
Walls are a home’s number one untapped resource. Aside from being a great place for hanging pictures, The Spruce suggests maximizing the wall space by using tall bookshelves that extend to the ceiling or by installing hooks on which you can hang you extra pieces of furniture such as fold-up chairs and tables. You can also try having a living wall planter that lets you have indoor plants without taking up any table or floor space for pots.
Living in a smaller home doesn’t have to necessarily mean living in a cramped space that has little to no room for walking. With the right tips and tricks, even a home as small as 300 square feet can feel spacious and freeing instead of suffocating and restricting. For more ideas on how you can make the most out of your home without breaking the bank, do check out our guide on ‘5 Ways to Make Your Home More Beautiful Without Breaking the Bank’.