Maximizing living space is a design artform, especially for small homes and apartments.

Oftentimes when you first move into your new place, the first thing you want to do is start decorating. 

Depending on your home’s size and floor plan, getting everything where you want it while maintaining comfort and space can be a challenge. 

But don’t allow yourself to feel defeated; in this article, we share five ways you can make your home feel more spacious from day one! 

Let’s begin!

1. Use Multi-purpose Furniture 

Multi-purpose furniture is a must for small homes. You may not have ample space for everything you want, so selecting smart pieces of furniture can be a total game-changer. 

Here are a few furniture ideas that will completely transform your space and maximize comfort: 

• Tables and chairs that offer additional storage space. 
• Large hanging mirrors will create an illusion of extra space.
• A fold-out couch if you don’t have a guest room but need an extra place for someone to sleep. 
• Murphy beds are another brilliant way to maximize space in a small bedroom without compromising comfort or design. 
• An extendable dining table that you can adjust to be smaller or larger when needed will also come in handy. 

2. Create Depth & Openness with Paint 

Believe it or not, paint choices affect the size of a space. Although paint can’t physically expand or take away space, it can create the illusion of either.

For instance, light paint colors tend to make a room feel more open and airy, whereas heavy dark colors will make a room feel much smaller. 

The best way to create the illusion of space and balance with paint is by choosing primarily light colors on your walls with a few darker decor/accent pieces here and there.

This type of contrast helps create space, depth, and visual interest.   

3. Install Pocket Doors Where You Can 

Pocket doors are arguably one of the most brilliant space-saving features ever invented!

With a pocketed doorway, you don’t have to worry about your doors hitting walls, scratching paint, or just taking up unnecessary space. 

With a pocket doorway, you simply slide the door panel into the wall as if it were never there in the first place. 

4. Be Strategic About Storage & Organization 

Choosing a storage and organization strategy is incredibly important for a home lacking spaciousness. 

Let’s face it, we all have “STUFF,” but when you lack extra space, organization and inventive storage solutions are crucial. 

To tackle storage, start by not wasting hidden spaces where pull-out drawers, shelves, or cabinets can be used. 

Any clutter often makes spaces feel smaller than they actually are, so storage and organization are so important for getting the most out of the space you have. 

Here are a few tips on hidden storage solutions and maximum organization: 

• Hideaway pull-out drawers under your bed for storage. 
• If you have a staircase, turn the space beneath into a closet. 
• Install a pull-out spice rack for your kitchen. 
• Install pull-out drawers for trash cans wherever you may need them. 
• Have bay windows with seating? Turn the seat into a flip-top storage opportunity. 
• Install cabinet door organizers in your kitchen and bathrooms. 

5. Utilize Natural Lighting & Enjoy Your Space  

Last but certainly not least, utilize as much natural lighting as possible. 

Natural lighting is a great way to make small spaces feel brighter, fresh, and more open. 

So, tie back those curtains, open your blinds, and breathe in the newly found comfort and spaciousness you’ve created for your home.