We’re all concerned with maximizing. We want the highest return for our money. We want the best gas mileage our car can get. We want the greatest income from the least amount of work possible. Heck, we even supersize our French fries when go to our local fast food joint for lunch. So why shouldn’t we want the most functional space from our properties?
Of course we want the most from our properties. Since we want the most revenue, it follows that we get the most visual and functional appeal in order to achieve that goal. Recognizing that we are limited by the physical nature of the very properties we own, here’s a few ideas for making the most out of the least spacious properties. Smaller square footage properties are more and more in vogue. They cost less to build, to heat and to maintain. But the fact is that they lack space, and often the space it what makes them rent for more.
The challenge we have then is to give these smaller spaces a bigger feel. This requires the utilization of every inch of available space as well as instituting design elements that enhance the visual nature of the property and give it a more spacious feel. Sometimes this is easier than you might think. It requires some forethought and maybe some demolition and or some easy remodeling. Whenever we undertake this type of function it is important to make sure that your work is sound and that the structural integrity of the property is maintained. Assuming you will do that, here are some ideas for making the most out of small spaces
• Add window bumpouts (bay windows). They give you space to sit or put plants or artwork that will no longer clutter or impede on the square footage of the room.
• Place new windows opposite entry doors into applicable rooms. This allows an unobstructed view into the great outdoors. Since it draws the eye to greater distances, the impression of space in enhanced.
• Remove walls where a hall parallels an appropriate room, thereby enlarging the room. Some older properties have hallways that parallel a room and lead to another room where it would be perfectly acceptable just to enter the room directly from another (now larger) room.
• Remove walls to the side of stairs thereby opening the area to view. With a nice handrail in place this opens a room wonderfully. The wall opposite the one removed then becomes a perfect place for pictures, artwork, or just an accent wall.
• Remove unnecessary closets, opening the room. Many older properties have small coat closets in one room that flow into another. You may well be better off removing the closet and opening the space. When a small closet is needed, a corner closet can be added very inexpensively and will make a room look more modern or better designed.
• Consider half-walls between kitchens and dining areas or living areas. We have all seen these pass-throughs. They make a space much more livable and functional.
• Consider removing walls to make one large multi-purpose room instead of two small rooms. A kitchen/dining room is very popular, as is a dinning/family room combination. In both cases the visual appeal is improved and the sense of space expanded.
• Consider enlarging passageways between rooms giving a more open feel. Small doors feel confining. You may well be better off with wall openings that are much larger.
• Utilize dead space, like space under stairs for storage or bookshelves, thereby removing boxes, book cases etc. from the rooms. Without these items protruding into the room it will feel bigger.
• Enlarge windows when possible to allow natural light and undefined line of sight for people living in or visiting the space. Picture windows not only open but also enliven a room. They are a great addition.
There are a number of ways to enlarge the property without actually adding on. Lots of creative people are coming up with wonderful ideas. As we learn more we’ll be happy to send them along for your consideration. Good luck in your efforts. If we can help, and I suspect we can, it would be our pleasure to do so.