 Managing Your Small Space
by Maria Palma
Living in a small space can be quite a challenge!
If you're an artist (like me) constantly creating something, the
stuff that has accumumulated can make you feel quite claustrophobic.
Over the course of a year I've finally learned how to manage my
space and all my stuff!
The first thing to do is to let go of unnecessary items. If there
is something in storage that you haven't used in six months to a
year, you probably won't use it again.
Also, a good place to check is your closet.
Go through each piece of clothing and if you haven't worn it in
the past year, it's time to get rid of it. The best thing to do
is to donate the goods to your local charity.
There are plenty of unfortunate people out there who would treasure
what you consider trash!
Now it's time to tackle the stuff that you do have. When living
in a small space, it's all about storage. Consider
multi-function furniture such as chests and ottomans that are
useful for storage of blankets and clothes and can be used as tables
or seats. A futon can serve as a couch during the day and a bed
at night.
With the things that you do have, it's best to try and store as
much as possible as to make the room appear uncluttered. Less is
definitely more in the case of small space living.
On the same note, bigger is also better. Small furniture does not
make the room appear bigger. Rather, larger, bolder pieces of furniture
draw the eye to them creating the illusion of a bigger room.
- Create a wall of shelving to put books, magazines, and
knick knacks.
- Grouping most of your belongings in one place rather
than scattered around the room frees up space to move around.
- Place baskets on the shelves for stray items and papers.
- Baskets can also be used to hold magazines and placed
next to the couch or a chair.
Light is important in a small room. Try hanging a big mirror opposite
the window(s) to reflect light into the room. Also, try to keep
the fabrics used in the room a light color. In my studio I use a
beige colored slipcover over my futon which I then cover with different
colored pillows. Remember that dark colors absorb light and light
colors reflect light.
You can divide space in a room by using screens or bookcases. Screens
or bookshelves can be inexpensively made by purchasing wood at your
local hardware or home store. They can be covered with fabric or
painted to add a personal touch. Area rugs are also a good way to
create division in a room.
With a little creativity you can make living in a small space as
comfortable as living in a castle!
About the Author Maria
Palma is a freelance writer and artist. She owns and manages
Studio 747, The Ultimate Art Experience.
http://www.studio747.com
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