Many people downsize their homes because they need to, but most homeowners can do so at any life stage as their finances and priorities shift.
Downsizing or simply choosing to transition to a more minimalist lifestyle can bring a new level of freedom. But it also means becoming more creative with storage and use of available space.
Downsizing on Purpose and Minimalist Living
It is a statistical fact that more Americans have been downsizing their living spaces in recent years. The rise in popularity of "tiny homes" and permanent RV dwellers has accentuated this trend.
And, according to Realtor Magazine, the category of people looking to downsize their living spaces accounted for 28 percent of all residential real estate transactions in 2020.
Granted, the majority of those transactions included buyers aged 55 and older. However, the Baby Boomers and the so-called Silent Generation - those born between 1928 and 1945 - are not the only demographics interested in smaller homes. Many young couples are also competing for homes with 1,400 or fewer square feet.
While downsizing might sound like a bad thing to many people, this is not always the case. This perception is understandable based on the reasons for downsizing in the business world, and many associate the term with job loss or reduced income.
Despite these negative connotations, however, many are intentionally opting for downsizing as the recognize that the benefits can easily outweigh the downsides of small living spaces.
But one unavoidable "downside" of downsizing is the need for managing limited storage space and being more creative when storing personal belongings.
And, with that in mind, we have put together this handy graphic checklist with simple storage tactics and tips for small living spaces:
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Small Living Space Storage Tips and Tactics
Living in a small space can be a rewarding experience, but it often comes with the challenge of effective storage. However, with the right tactics and tips, you can maximize your living space while keeping it organized and functional.
In this section, we offer up several creative storage solutions and provide a list of helpful tips for those who reside in small living spaces, whether by by choice or by necessity.
1. Multifunctional Furniture: Invest in furniture that serves multiple purposes. For example, a sofa bed can provide seating and a guest bed, while a coffee table with storage underneath can help reduce clutter.
2. Wall-Mounted Shelves: Utilize vertical space by installing wall-mounted shelves. These are great for displaying decor, books, and even storing small items in decorative bins.
3. Under-Bed Storage: Don't waste the valuable space under your bed. Use storage containers or drawers to keep items like clothing, shoes, or seasonal bedding neatly tucked away.
4. Floating Desks and Tables: A floating desk or table can be folded up when not in use, saving space in your living area or bedroom.
5. Door Organizers: Over-the-door organizers are versatile and can be used for shoes, accessories, cleaning supplies, and more.
6. Ottoman Storage: Choose an ottoman with hidden storage inside. It's perfect for stashing away blankets, magazines, or even small electronics.
7. Corner Shelves: Corner spaces are often underutilized. Install corner shelves to make the most of every nook and cranny.
8. Modular Furniture: Modular furniture pieces can be customized to fit your needs. These pieces can include cabinets, shelving units, and storage cubes.
9. Pegboards and Hooks: Install pegboards in your kitchen or workspace to hang pots, pans, and utensils. You can also use hooks to organize keys, bags, or even jewelry.
10. Fold-Down Tables: If you're short on dining space, consider a fold-down dining table that can be tucked away when not in use.
11. Clear Storage Containers: Use clear storage containers for items like craft supplies, kitchen goods, or toiletries. Being able to see what's inside makes it easier to locate what you need.
12. Utilize the Space Above Cabinets: In the kitchen, make use of the space above your cabinets by placing baskets or decorative containers for storing items you don't use every day.
13. Opt for Furniture with Legs: Furniture with legs creates the illusion of more space by allowing light to flow underneath, making the room appear less crowded.
14. Curtain Dividers: If you need to separate spaces in a studio apartment, use curtain dividers to create distinct living areas.
15. Overhead Storage: In the kitchen, garage, or laundry room, consider overhead storage racks for items that are used less frequently.
16. Magnetic Spice Racks: In a small kitchen, attach magnetic spice racks to the side of the refrigerator or a wall to free up counter and cabinet space.
17. Foldable Furniture: Foldable chairs and tables can be stashed away when not in use, giving you more room to move around.
18. Stackable Storage: Opt for stackable bins and containers for items like shoes, kids' toys, or office supplies.
19. Use the Inside of Cabinet Doors: Attach hooks or pockets to the inside of cabinet doors to store items like pot lids, cutting boards, or cleaning supplies.
20. Mirror Cabinets: In a small bathroom, install a mirrored cabinet. It provides both a functional mirror and extra storage for toiletries.
21. Go Digital: Reduce paper clutter by scanning important documents and storing them digitally. This not only saves space but also makes documents easier to organize and access.
By incorporating these storage tactics and tips into your small living space, you can create an organized and efficient environment while making the most of every square inch. Remember that small spaces can be incredibly cozy and functional with a little creativity and organization.
The Joys of Minimalist Living
Minimalist living and residing in smaller living spaces offer numerous benefits. Firstly, it encourages a clutter-free and organized environment, reducing stress and making it easier to find and appreciate the items you truly value.
Smaller spaces often come with reduced maintenance and lower utility costs, allowing for more efficient use of resources. Living minimally can lead to a more environmentally conscious lifestyle, as it promotes reduced consumption and waste.
Additionally, smaller living spaces promote creativity in space utilization and design, making each square foot purposeful. Finally, minimalist living can lead to financial freedom, as it encourages mindful spending and saving.
Of course, one of the very first tasks that must be undertaken before one can truly "downsize", declutter, and minimize their space is to get rid of the unwanted junk that has collected over the years.
And this is the part that doesn't have to be a DIY chore!
Call on the "Space Saving" Experts: Junk King
Whether you need our services several times during your junk removal and downsizing project, or just once after you've finished, our junk hauling professionals will ensure that all your junk will be quickly removed so that you can get on with your less cluttered and simplified life!
Our professional and expert residential junk removal services provide an easy solution for clearing out your clutter and hauling away your unwanted junk.
Decluttering, Downsizing, and Junk Removal Means Having Better Storage
The good news is that all your junk and clutter won't end up in a landfill because Junk King believes in recycling every bit of material possible. So, you can feel good about helping the environment while helping yourself by working with Junk King.
In addition, we also send any usable items to local non-profits and donation centers to help your community and further reduce landfill waste.
Our professional and insured trash removal team will show up on time, as promised, and we'll call 15 to 30 minutes before we arrive. Once we're there we’ll also give you a free estimate based on how much room your junk and clutter takes up in our truck.
Then you simply point and we'll load your items into our junk removal trucks - and do it all without any hidden fees!
When you're ready to get rid of that clutter, it can be as simple as 1, 2, 3.
Just make an appointment by booking online above or by calling us at 1.888.888.JUNK (5865).
