Homes come in many shapes and sizes and any house can feel like home if you put the right time, care, and people into it, including a small one.
Small space living is all about trading the size of the space we live in for factors such as location, cost, availability, and efficiency. But no one said that it can’t be just as pretty or even prettier and more comfortable than a bigger space.
1. The Rise Of Small Space Living
With rising costs of living in cities, downsizing entered the building. Not only are small spaces much cheaper to build, buy or rent, they also come with lower maintenance costs and utility bills. In addition, the emerging millennial generation introduced a trend of mesmerizing moving pictures and environmental stewardship that makes small footprints appealing given their minimal impact.
The small spaces phenomenon is the result of several aspects.
Economic
If a potential homeowner cannot afford a space in their chosen location, especially in an urban city, small space living enables them to realize their goal. It all comes down to this basic math.
Social
In today’s culture, we no longer live as a multi-generation, single-family unit.
As the millennials become residential property purchasers, the picture changes yet again because this young and aware generation has far different wants and needs.
Especially for millennials on a budget, the proximity to a city’s cultural hubs makes the sacrifice of space worthwhile.
Environmental
Small places lend themselves very well to being built to conform to stringent energy standards such as Energy Star. The small physical size of these homes means that fewer raw materials are used in their construction and waste production is also minimized.
With lower interior volume. heating and cooling consume much less energy. The exterior structure is physically smaller so it can be built using alternative materials that are more efficient insulators and that use renewable energy.
2. Pros And Cons Of Small Space Living
The obvious benefit from small spaces comes from lowers costs, from rent to your Con Ed utility bill. Therefore, you will have more disposable income, get a better location, and all that comes with it than you would if you opted for a big space. Another obvious pro is that less space means fewer square feet to clean and maintain.
But, small space has its cons. If you are bringing large pieces with you from a more spacious previous home, you could have a hard time fitting it all in, not to mention that bulky furniture in a small house can make rooms feel cramped and even smaller than they are. It can make you feel like you are in a puzzle and frustrated as you try to put it all together. Things will also clutter easily as you won’t be counting on storage. A small mess feels bigger in a small room. It will also be tough to invite guests over but at least you will get to enjoy your charming and cozy home.
3. OrganizationaAnd Design Tips To Live Large In Your Small Space
Decorating small spaces can feel like an impossible puzzle. But just because you chose a more minimalistic experience, it doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice style.
Keep the floor clear
Go horizontal with shelves and hooks and floating pieces, but don’t put stuff on the floor.
Folding is key
Consider installing furnishings that can fold up when not in use such as a folding desk or dining table.
Let there be light
Small spaces can often end up feeling dark due to small windows. Make up for the lack of natural light by adding plenty of light sources and Ambience review in every single room.
Use the illusion of mirrors
Besides making the most of the natural light you do have, mirrors have a special superpower of creating an illusion of a bigger space. A simple lining a wall with a large mirror or a gallery wall of different sizes and shapes is all it takes for your space to feel and seem bigger!
Make sure it’s coherent
Your living space should be infused with your personality. But whatever you do, make sure all your design decisions are coherent to ensure every piece will fit in.
Allow space
It might sound like a paradox, but you need to let the pieces breathe as otherwise they will feel stacked.
Takeaway
Despite some obvious cons, there are many appealing aspects to small-home living such as a mind and soul-fulfilling ride that a minimalistic experience provides. The truth of the matter is that any house can feel like home if you put the right time, care, and people into it.