In states like New Jersey, where homes are smaller than the national average and come with a higher price tag per square foot (averaging 1,753 square feet at $266.77 per square foot), effectively utilizing your living space becomes essential.
Though these prices may decrease if you move further down south compared to central Jersey, it is still challenging to afford larger accommodations. So, how can you make the most of the space you have?
The following tips can help you make smart and efficient use of your limited living area.
The Bathroom
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Your bathroom is a common space that accumulates a lot of clutter. On top of being a smaller space, it also holds a lot of essential items. To effectively make the most of your bathroom, consider the following:
Convert your tub into a shower
Why waste valuable floor space on a bathtub that you don’t use that often? A recent survey revealed that 85% of Americans prefer a speedy shower over a slow soak in the tub. If you have similar showering habits, then consider contacting a local contractor to convert your tub into a shower. It can cost an average of $1,200 to $8,000, depending on the type of shower, size, and labor cost. However, the area you live in can heavily influence the service price bathroom remodelers can charge. For example, if you live in New Jersey, where the housing cost is 31% higher than the national average, local contractors charge higher prices. On the other hand, South Jersey towns like Clayton have rent 22% lower than the NJ average and are more affordable.
Though these high prices may compel you to choose the cheapest option, picking a reliable contractor is essential. Look up South Jersey bathroom remodeling experts near me to find the right service providers for the job. For the best experience, consider companies like Luxury Bath NJPA that offer $1,500 off on a new tub or shower if you live in their service areas, like South Jersey. These highly rated professionals have a 5/5 rating out of 167 reviews, and they use high-quality materials that guarantee a durable bathroom.
Utilize over-the-toilet space
Many homeowners often neglect the space above the toilet despite its potential. In an area where finding room for toilet paper can be a hassle, you can install shelves above and use them as clever spaces to hold these items. Not only do you have a creative way to place towels out of sight, but you also have a way to decorate your space without overcrowding. It is the perfect spot to add a small plant or scented candle to spruce up your bathroom.
Add baskets
Your bathroom has so many items, from skincare to soaps and shampoo bottles. They can clutter your sink space and create an untidy appearance. However, you can organize them by putting them in wire baskets. You can easily attach these baskets to the wall and clear your counter by organizing your essentials. You can also keep spare towels out of sight. Place them near the sink and shower to keep essential items within reach.
The Living room
Your living room is the space that holds your home together. It’s where you gather with your loved ones and spend time together. However, storing many items here without making it feel too cramped can be difficult. Luckily, the following tricks can help you make more room.
Sneak in hidden storage
In a small home, there is little space to store all of your items, from seasonal clothing to sentimental belongings. However, you can add extra storage while still being stylish by using multipurpose furniture with hidden compartments where you can store these belongings. For example, a pull-up sofa that has additional storage for throw blankets and spare pillows. Or a storage chest that doubles as a coffee table. This type of furniture serves two functions and creates extra space while being minimal.
Select a bright color palette
Dark colors absorb sunlight and can make your room appear cramped. Instead, you should choose brighter colors that reflect light into every corner of the room and create an illusion of a more expansive space. You can never go wrong with cheerful hues like yellow or terracotta that make your space warm and inviting. On the other hand, if you want a more subtle look and maximum space, you can choose pale blue and gray for a calming and soothing touch.
Place a big rug
A large rug can become the focal point of your living room and attract eyes to numerous areas of its surface, which adds character to the floor and gives it a more prominent appearance. Instead of using multiple rugs to cover up floor space and divide the room, one big carpet can unite the floor and create a unified space. Not only does a well-placed rug add character to the room, but it also blends your furniture together and creates a cohesive space.
The Kitchen
According to a recent survey, a messy kitchen can stress out most Americans. This room is exceptionally high-maintenance, from cluttered counters and overflowing drawers to accumulating dishes. Not only do you want a tidy kitchen for aesthetic purposes but also to maintain hygiene. So, here are some tricks to declutter your kitchen.
Designate kitchen storage
Groceries are a pain to sort through, especially when you have to find space for them in your small kitchen. However, what if you could store them in a separate area? Try creating a small pantry for these items in a room near your kitchen. You can install shelves or add an old closet that can double as your pantry. With these items out of the way, you can utilize your kitchen drawers and cupboards for immediate things like utensils, spices, and cookware.
Get drawer separators
Sorting through numerous spoons and forks haphazardly tossed into your kitchen drawers can save time and energy. However, getting separators can help you effectively organize your belongings and reduce clutter. It can also help you quickly find items that you might have otherwise missed in a mess.
Conclusion
Space shouldn’t be an issue if you have the right plan and creative solutions to utilize it effectively. Following the tips in this article, you can declutter your space and create the neat home you dream of. Say goodbye to the mess and enjoy your new, tidy environment.