In a small home, every square centimetre counts. A few simple principles can free up a considerable amount of storage space without major work.
In brief
- Make use of available height rather than floor space alone.
- Choose multifunctional furniture to limit the number of pieces.
- Use often overlooked spaces (under the bed, behind doors).
- Declutter regularly to avoid accumulation.
- Favour closed storage for the impression of a larger space.
- Match the clothing storage solution to the space actually available.
Making use of height rather than floor space
In a small space, floor space is limited, but wall height is often underused. Tall shelving, furniture reaching the ceiling, or suspended storage systems can free up significant storage volume without eating into the living space.
Betting on multifunctional furniture
| Furniture | Combined function |
|---|---|
| Bed with built-in drawers | Sleeping and textile storage |
| Folding or extendable table | Meals and workspace |
| Bench with storage chest | Seating and storage |
This type of furniture reduces the number of pieces needed, a particularly valuable advantage in small spaces, especially in a studio flat where every piece of furniture needs to serve several purposes at once.
Storing clothes without a dedicated dressing room
Not having a room dedicated to a wardrobe does not prevent organising clothes properly. An open wardrobe rail on wheels, easy to move around, offers a simple and inexpensive solution. Wall shelves installed above the bed or in a dead corner can store folded linen. For a straight-line wardrobe built into a hallway or a corner, a width of 60 to 80 cm is usually enough to fit a rail and a few shelves. Below that width, a modular wall storage system remains more practical than an enclosed wardrobe, which often becomes hard to access once the space is too tight.
Do not overlook hidden spaces
Under the bed, behind doors, or room corners are often left empty when they can host discreet storage: wheeled boxes, hanging organisers, or corner shelves.
Decluttering regularly
Regularly sorting through rarely used items remains one of the most effective ways to keep a functional storage space. This habit is part of a broader approach to organising everyday home life, alongside regular natural cleaning that prevents clutter from building up in storage areas.
Also thinking about outdoor design
When the home has an outdoor area, even a small one, it can also be thought of as an extension of the living space. This ties in with the principles applied to set up a terrace on a small budget.