Make your home feel bigger with simple space-saving ideas

We all need space, sometimes personal and sometimes in our homes – but there are ways you can create both.

Fed up of picking clothes up from the floordrobe and trying to force things into spaces they’re just not meant to go? Perhaps it’s time to declutter and make more of the space in your home.

Ruthlessly decluttering is the perfect place to start and when you can see the wood for the trees, you’ll have a much clearer way of maximising the space available.

Vertical storage such as ladder shelves and multifunctional furniture such as sofa beds and storage ottomans often offer quick wins. Use mirrors to increase light, and adopt a neutral colour palette to make rooms feel larger.

Look around your home with a critical eye to assess where you could make space or at least create the illusion of it.

For example, could you add a slimline cabinet or wall-mounted hooks in the hall rather than the free-standing coat stand? What about the under-the-stairs space – is there room for corner shelving or drawers for extra storage? A few simple tricks can make all the difference there without the need for the assistance of a boy wizard.

Install a media wall with shelving and drawers for additional storage, it will create a focal point in the living room drawing eyes to that and away from a lack of space.

Letting more light in will instantly create the impression of space, skylights, bi-fold doors and even just simple spotlights or stand out light fittings will help brighten up a room. If space is a squeeze in your home, how about swapping traditional opening doors with sliding ones.

Look upwards, perhaps a loft conversion is the answer, specialists can talk you through your options and carry out the work. Putting boards down and simply using the area for storage will at the least keep your clutter out of sight but could your loft become another room, perhaps a play room or den for teenagers? A properly insulated loft will also help keep your energy costs down.

Is there room to expand with an extension? Always check whether planning permission is needed first, and you may need to consult an architect to confirm your scheme is actually viable. Could you knock two smaller rooms into one to create a large living/dining room? Be prepared for some upheaval along the way, but with the help of a reliable local builder, you can make space for your place to grow.

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