With the forecast calling for snow in many parts of the Northeast this weekend, we got to thinking about the long winter months ahead. Winter in Maine is a season where you can certainly spend time outdoors snowshoeing, skiing, snowboarding, snowmobiling, ice-skating, and enjoying many other fun activities that help to ease the stir crazies, but it is also inevitably a season where most of us spend a lot more time indoors. As anyone who has lived in a cold climate can testify, one side effect of this is that what felt like a perfectly spacious, accommodating home in the warmer months can begin to feel a little cramped.
When it seems like all your storage space is full, why not get creative with those small, under-utilized nooks and crannies? We looked around the web with this in mind, and found several very clever ideas for creating “new” and useful space in your home. Some of our favorites are below.
Stair to top floor from right. by Ctd 2005, on Flickr
Building a neat chest of drawers directly into the stairs is a fantastic way to make this tight space useful.
Under the Stairs by norwichnuts, on Flickr
For those with an open staircase, a cozy little under-the-stairs nook is perfect for curling up with a book.
Basement Office by AdamSelwood, on Flickr
It may not be enough space for everyone, but this compact computer station built into a wardrobe tucked away in the basement would be ideal for a small home office.
The closet office in use by Lord Rex, on Flickr
Another great idea for a small home office – if you have a closet to spare, an “office closet” is a relatively easy space to create – you just need a desk, some shelves, lighting, and a comfortable chair!
Finished Product by Sh4rp_i, on Flickr
Why limit drawers to your dresser or closet? Typically home to the dust bunnies, that space under your bed is perfect for stowing away excess clothing.
kitchen storage by Drew Fansler, on Flickr
For those with small kitchens, the best way to maximize space is to hang as many things as possible! Pots and pants are easily accessible and free up valuable cabinet space for other items.
There are so many clever ways to utilize those tiny, oft-ignored nooks in the home, but sometimes there just isn’t much space, period. When it comes to simply fitting everything your family needs into a teeny living space, we have to say that this 180 square foot home to a family of four in California is the winner in our book for “most impressive use of a small space”!
How do you maximize space in your home? We’d love to hear from you!
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