Making the most of your space at home
Making the most of the space you have at home isn’t always about having more square footage – it’s about being smart with what you’ve got. Whether you're living in an apartment or a growing family home, clever storage and thoughtful design can help you reclaim space and create a more organised, stylish environment.
In this guide, we’ve pulled together our top tips for space-saving solutions that work for real homes, including how to make use of hidden corners, embrace vertical storage, and create a sense of calm through decluttering and multi-functional furniture. It's all about working smarter, not bigger.
Our top tips
Think Vertically
Don’t just focus on floor space – make the most of your walls. Tall bookcases, wall-mounted shelves, and over-door storage can add a lot of functionality without taking up valuable square footage.
Opt for Multi-Functional Furniture
Choose pieces that do double duty. Think ottomans with hidden storage, sofa beds, or dining tables that extend. These are perfect for compact homes or flats.
Recycle and Repurpose
Before buying new, see what you can do with what you already have. Old ladders can become quirky shelving units, and crates or wooden boxes can be stacked to make rustic storage. Sanding and a lick of paint can transform just about anything.
Embrace IKEA Hacks
IKEA furniture is affordable and designed for customisation. Turn a KALLAX unit into a window seat with hidden storage, use BEKVÄM spice racks as bookshelves or bedside caddies, or add legs and handles to a basic cabinet to give it a whole new look.
Use Hidden Spaces
There’s often unused space under beds, sofas, and stairs. Invest in under-bed storage boxes or drawers, or create built-in cupboards under your staircase to stash away shoes, bags, or cleaning supplies.
Hooks, Pegs, and Rails
Don’t underestimate a good wall hook. From hallway coats to kitchen utensils or bathroom towels, hooks and rails keep things tidy and off the floor.
Use Mirrors to Open Up a Room
Mirrors reflect light and can make a room feel larger and airier. Place them opposite windows or in darker corners for maximum effect.
Zone Open-Plan Spaces
Use rugs, shelving units, or curtains to create zones in open-plan living areas. This adds a sense of structure and maximises use of the space without the need for extra walls.
Go Bespoke (If You Can)
For awkward spaces like alcoves, custom-built storage can be a game changer. Made-to-measure wardrobes or shelving might cost a bit more, but they’ll make use of every inch.
