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Tuesday, June 28, 2016

5 Ways to Find the Extra Space That’s Hiding in Your Home

5 Ways to Find the Extra Space That’s Hiding in Your Home wjfigw4q3

Do you need extra space? You aren’t alone. Most people would admit that they’re continually searching for more room. Do you know you probably have more room than you realize? Recently, people have been discovering extra space in their homes–that they’ve had all along–yet never realized the potential. Whether it’s storage that doesn’t need to be there, or versatility that comes from thinking outside the box, we’ve found five ways you can get the extra space you’ve been hoping for. It just takes a little creativity–and the ability to let go of some preconceived notions.

#1 Get Rid of “Stuff.”

Closet Organizing

Everyone has “stuff” that gets in the way. Sometimes when people try to create more space, they find themselves just repacking old belongings in a new way. It’s like playing Tetris. Follow these rules to get rid of that extra storage, and you’ll find space you never knew you had: Only keep what you need or what you love. This can be tough work, and there are many ways to go about it, but don’t let guilt or excuses get in your way. Take clothes, for instance…

  • If you’re not wearing it, it’s time to go.
  • Yes, even the clothes with tags still on. It looked good on the hanger, but not so great on you. Accept it, and realize that you’ll make someone’s day at the donation center when they find something new and beautiful to wear.
  • And finally, even your 5 favorite pairs of jeans from 10 years ago that you have promised yourself you’ll wear again when you lose that last 20 pounds. Let’s get real. Start loving the body you have, get rid of the old jeans–they’re probably out of style, anyway–and go buy yourself one new pair–you love–that look fabulous on you.
  • Repeat with all of the items in your closet, and soon you’ll be enjoying some much-needed space.

#2 Don’t Worry About Guests.

Central London Apartment

Do you have a guest room–that gets used so infrequently–that you almost forget it’s there? There was a time when having a put-together guest room was an important feature of a home. Think about it like this: You live in your home. Your guests do not. If someone stays with you for a long weekend, you have 362 other days of the year where you are giving up vital space. You’ve got a few options…

  • The least expensive is, of course, an air mattress. Inexpensive, but not comfortable for more than one night.
  • Another choice is some type of daybed or trundle that can be used when you have a visitor, but can also double as seating in your “now empty” extra room.
  • The third is a Murphy bed. These beds have seen huge innovations over the years, and the organization and storage of them will, not only add to your life, but give you a great option when you actually do have an out-of-town visitor.

#3 Use a Common Sense Approach to Children’s Spaces.

PLAYROOM

The thought that everyone must have their own room has begun to go by the wayside as parents are realizing the potential of extra space. With young children, if toys are invading your living space because you don’t have anywhere to put them–and your children each have their own rooms–it might be time to rethink things. What if they shared a room, leaving one of the rooms empty–available for an organized, out-of-the-way play space? Reduce the toy clutter around your home, and give them a space to really enjoy. With older kids and teens, privacy and boundaries are important, but at that age, the toys won’t need that extra space. And what about when they’re finally out of the house? They may come back to visit, but if they’re not there full-time, you’ll want to revisit #2.

#4 Make the Best Use of Space.

Wonderfully in White

Do you have an in-home office? Is there a room in your home dedicated to exercising? How about another single-functioning space? The best idea is to consider how you use a space, and then decide if you can combine two, making one now an extra room. When it comes to your home office, you’re probably spending most of the time sitting at your desk. Wouldn’t it be great to use the rest of the room for another purpose? How about that treadmill, or your weight set? Chances are, you probably could bring both together for a custom space that actually would enhance your lifestyle. Sitting at the computer too long, drawing a blank? Revitalize your thought process with a quick run on the treadmill. That way, you’re only steps away from the computer if that important email finally comes through.

#5 Make Sure Your Furniture Matches Your Space.

finding extra space with sleek design scheme

Is the design of your home comfortable, well thought out? Have you moved recently? You know what can add problems to your design scheme? Furniture that doesn’t fit your space. If you’re looking for extra room, it might be time to reevaluate what you have. If you moved from a larger home into a smaller one, or if the rooms just have a different layout than your old home, things might not be working for you. Try rearranging, even moving furniture to different rooms to see how you can utilize what you have. It might also be time to let go. If what you have isn’t functional, you’ll never feel like your home is your own. You’d be surprised how a new design can really open the space, improve your mood and transform the overall atmosphere.

What Will You Do With Your Extra Space?

Have you been inspired to find the unused space in your home? Once you’ve discovered it, our design experts at Metropolitan Window Fashions would love to help you style your new room. With upholstery, window fashions and a large selection of fabrics, we can help you create the room of your dreams! Contact our team, for a free, fun-filled shop-at-home experience.