Having a small living area and getting the maximum use for storing your belongings can be a layout challenge. But there are effective, resourceful ways to use up that space in a tiny house or small apartment to the max, and can help it feel less crowded.

Multipurpose Furniture

While buying furniture, focus on multipurpose items that you can use in more than one way. Look for sofas that open into beds or tables that can expand with extra leaves. When you need a nightstand next to a bed, use a trunk or dresser that you can use for the storage of seasonal items.

Stackable Furniture and Appliances

Getting Maximum Use of a Small Living Space_Modern Studio Apartment

Rather than using a lot of floor space for a regular washer and dryer, buy stackable appliances that require half the amount of space. Stackable furniture such as shelving or draw units are also handy ways to reduce the floor area without losing storage space.

Built-in Storage Systems

Getting Maximum Use of a Small Living Space_Kitchen Dining Living Areas

Buy ready-made built-in storage systems that have doors to hide and store an assortment of things such as clothing, seasonal decorations, cookware and books. Doors for storage, keeps your space looking tidy and makes the space seem more spacious than it actually is.

Look for Furniture that Expands or Folds

Folding furniture such as a dining room sideboard that opens into a table or a bed that will fold upward into a wall cabinet and will create maximum use of a small living space. There are also living room chairs that will open into a twin-size bed.

Use the Upper Areas of Walls

Getting Maximum Use of a Small Living Space_Tiny Kitchen

Rather than coping with clutter all over the floor, think about adding storage systems to the upper areas of the walls, such as open shelving or cabinets with doors.

Make sure to install these units safely and securing, using the proper fastening devices.

Have a Clutter-free Environment

Use multi-purpose furniture for storage and décor, folding furniture can be conveniently stored when not in use, and use the space above or stacking for a compact footprint. These ideas will help you achieve maximum use of a small living space, leading to a clutter-free environment that will undoubtedly free up valuable space for living.