Make the Most of Smaller Spaces When You Downsize

Getting ready to downsize to a smaller home in St. George? Take note of these tips that will help you maximize the use of that smaller space. A smaller home doesn't have to be less functional and comfortable.

Embrace Multi-Functional Furniture

When you're moving to a smaller home, you may need to buy different furniture. It's not just that you'll want smaller furniture, but pieces that can serve multiple functions will be a more efficient use of the space. 

For example:

• Sofa beds are perfect for guest accommodations in a small home. During the day, it serves as a sofa, and at night, it can transform into a bed.
• Storage ottomans can function as extra seating or a coffee table while providing hidden storage space for items like blankets or board games.
• Drop-leaf dining tables can be expanded for family meals or shrunk down when you need more floor space.

Multi-functional furniture is an excellent way to minimize clutter while still having the functionality you need in a compact living space.

Utilize Your Vertical Space

If the square footage of your home has decreased, look to vertical space to maximize your storage, decor, and more. One of the most overlooked strategies for maximizing small spaces is taking advantage of vertical space. Walls offer more than just a place to hang art or photos. Here are a few ideas:

• Shelving: Install floating shelves or tall bookcases to store books, decorative items, and even kitchenware. Floor-to-ceiling shelves not only provide ample storage but also draw the eye upward, making the room feel taller and more spacious.
• Wall-mounted storage: Hooks, racks, and pegboards can hold everything from kitchen utensils to bicycles, freeing up floor space.
• Hanging plants: If you love greenery but lack surface space, consider hanging plants from the ceiling or walls to keep your home feeling fresh and airy without taking up precious square footage.

Declutter and Prioritize 

No matter how organized you are, it's going to be important to purge some non-essential belongings and declutter your home. Ask yourself if the item you're considering will have a logical place in the new, smaller space. Go room by room and assess what you can let go of. Focus on keeping only the essentials and things that truly add value to your life and then donate, sell, or recycle anything that no longer serves you.

Minimalism is key when living in a small space. By focusing on what truly matters, you’ll avoid unnecessary clutter and enjoy a more streamlined, peaceful living environment. You can also reduce physical storage needs by digitizing important documents, photos, and even books or CDs.

Maximize Lighting and Mirrors

Lighting can work wonders to make your small space feel larger. Mirrors will help you bounce that light around the home and create a comfortable and spacious ambience. In St. George, we have abundant sunshine that can be an advantage to you. 

Open up your windows and let in as much natural light as possible. Avoid heavy, dark curtains that can make a space feel closed in. Instead, opt for light, sheer drapes or shades that let sunlight filter through.

Strategically place mirrors opposite windows or in darker areas of your home to reflect light and give the illusion of more space. Large mirrors in small rooms can instantly create depth and make the area feel more expansive.

Maximize Your Outdoor Spaces

In St. George, you can create an outdoor living space to be used during most of the year. Consider upgrading your home to have a place outside that is functional and comfortable for entertaining and relaxing. Outdoor spaces can serve as an extension of your living area. 

For many buyers, the hesitation to downsize surrounds entertaining. If you buy a home that has an outdoor living space, or the room to create one, this can be an ideal solution. You can design a space that works for entertaining and supplements the smaller indoor square footage.

Want to learn more about homes for sale in St. George? We can help, so contact us any time.