Small homes can be great homes, but they can also be frustrating if you feel cramped or restricted in your space. Fortunately, there are many things you can do to make your small home look and feel bigger than it really is.
Start by working with the right Connecticut contractor to remodel your small space. Choosing an experienced contractor is important. Good contractors have good ideas and may be able to help you brainstorm ways that you can maximize your house. Good contractors can also expand upon your ideas to make them more effective.
In this article, we'll go over six potential ways that you can make the most of your small space.
1. Build An Addition
Building an addition gives you more space, whether you're adding a bathroom, a multi-purpose room, or simply expanding the size of an existing room. When building an addition, consider the architectural style of your home. Matching the existing style will preserve your home's curb appeal and protect its resale value.
As you're trying to decide what type of addition to build, think long-term. Build an addition that will continue to deliver value even as your household changes and your needs change. Keeping the room as multi-purpose as possible makes it easier to use the space for new purposes in the future.
Building an addition takes time, so if you're trying to solve an existing problem, don't wait to speak with a contractor. Meet with experienced contractors now to get the process started.
2. Add or Enhance Storage
Having many storage options can help keep clutter out of your way while helping you stay organized at the same time. There are many things you can do to enhance your home's storage, including:
- Install custom or semi-custom cabinets in your kitchen or bathroom to ensure every square inch is well-used.
- Consider unusual or creative cabinet options, like toe-kick drawers and pull-out drawers for pots and pans.
- Install custom features like benches that double as storage, or under-the-stairs shelves.
- Install shelves, cabinets, and drawers in closets to give you many storage options.
- Convert an alcove or a nook into a built-in shelf.
- Add ceiling-mounted racks in the garage or basement, giving you space to store your belongings.
- Install an outdoor storage option, like a large shed in the backyard.
3. Convert a Basement or Attic
Some homeowners create more room at home by converting the basement or attic into usable space. Not all basements and attics are good for living space, so you may need to have a discussion with a contractor to decide which parts of your home are easiest to convert. Some basements need a lot of waterproofing before they can become usable in this way, while some attics are too shallow.
Either way, if you're converting space in your home into a living area, permits may be required, and changes to the HVAC system may be necessary for heating and cooling. Working with a contractor helps ensure this work is done right.
Many people turn their attic or basement conversion into a multi-functional non-bedroom space, like a home office, a playroom, or a home gym. If you do need to convert your space into a bedroom, your contractor may need to install windows and doors for egress purposes. A design-build contractor can help you design a beautiful, functional, safe space to meet your needs.
4. Remodel to Make It Look Bigger
Good design choices can make small spaces look bigger. Light colors, including light paint colors on the walls and light-colored flooring material, help open up spaces and make them seem bigger. Consider remodeling to create an open floor plan as well by removing unnecessary walls and creating flexible "zones" that can be altered by moving furniture or screens.
Allow more natural light into your home with bigger windows and creative placement of mirrors. Use creative storage to keep clutter out of sight, and install recessed lighting to keep your space uncluttered, clean, and modern.
5. Light It Up
Layered lighting adds more dimension to small spaces. Install ambient lighting (like recessed lights and ceiling fixtures), combined with accent lighting to add drama, or highlight features of your home.
Use recessed lights to prevent low ceilings from feeling lower, and if possible, install lighting in unusual spaces to add depth. For example, install LED strips on bathroom vanities or on shelves, and install toe-kick lights to create a soft glow in the evening.
Remember that warm lights help make your small space feel cozy. Avoid using large chandeliers that take up space, both visually and literally.
6. Add a Loft
Adding a loft can create more storage or living space, depending on the loft's design. Before starting your remodel, know the purpose of the loft, whether it's for sleeping or storage, because this will affect the design.
Work with a professional (don't DIY this one!) to ensure that your loft is structurally sound and safe. A good contractor will ensure that your loft has the proper features - like power outlets, lighting, and guardrails - to make it easy to access, easy to use, and safe.
Get Started Improving Your Small Home
There are many things you can do to improve your small home, making it look and feel bigger than it is. Start by hiring the right contractor. Download our guide to hiring a Connecticut contractor.
If you're ready to meet with contractors to discuss your project, contact us to schedule an in-person consultation. We're happy to help you remodel your home to meet your needs.
