Organizational Ideas for Small Spaces

The smaller your space, the more important it is to be organized. You need to take advantage of every available nook, while making sure you can still find what you tucked away. By purchasing multifunctional furnishings, pruning your possessions down to what you really need and being vigilant about maintaining order, you can turn a cramped space into a cozy one.

Declutter

A small space appears even smaller when cluttered. Sort your possessions before you begin organizing. Discard or donate items you no longer use or need. Consider storing items that aren't used frequently. Select only a few items to remain on your walls if they are cluttered with decorations.

Use Closets

Install a closet organizing system that will provide two levels for hanging clothes. Place a shelf in the bottom of the closet for shoes and storage. Hang hooks or extra shelves in the top of the closet for items that aren't used frequently. To free up floor space in a child's room, place a bookshelf or toy storage container in the bottom of the closet.

Dual Purpose Furniture

When selecting furniture for a small space, pay extra attention to scale. A large sofa or entertainment unit will overwhelm a small living room. Choose furniture that contains storage space, such as ottomans, coffee tables and hallway benches. Beds with drawers underneath offer storage for toys or clothes.

Use High and Low Space

Search for space that is not being used. Containers made for under-bed storage are readily available. Fill them with out-of-season clothes and other items you do no use regularly. Mark the containers so you can find items later. Use the space above kitchen cabinets to store items. Baskets can hide items that you don't want visible to guests. Bathroom items can be stored in a shelf over the toilet. Garage organizational units take advantage of ceiling space.

Cupboard Organization

Double the space in cupboards by installing wire shelves for short items like spices, or purchase double-deck lazy Susans. Attach narrow shelves or organizers to cupboard doors. Pullout shelves allow you to more efficiently organize deep cupboards. Organize cupboards by item type; the extra time you spend now will pay off later when you need to find something. Place rarely used items on high shelves.

Counter tops

Leave small appliances that you use frequently on the counter. Decorative shelves or racks offer more organizational options. Baskets hold small items in an attractive way. Avoid storing too many items on the counter top, though, as you don't want it to look cluttered.

References

• Home Made Simple