Living in a small flat or home can be challenging.
In Europe, it’s the norm, but all over the world are people beginning to live more sustainably, independently, and frugally. Sustainable tools that are built for self-sufficiency like water collectors and the pumping of water are growing, but so are tiny homes and homesteads.
When “struggling” for space, we need to make sure we maximise the utility of our furniture. This can be done in a few ways, but the starting point is making them multi-use.
Sofa Beds with Built-In Storage
Sofa beds are a classic space-saving solution, but they’re even better than 20 years ago. Look for designs like the Furl’s Space Saving Sofa Bed or the FRIHETEN Corner Sofa Bed from IKEA, which features hidden compartments perfect for storing the bedding (or just general stuff). In this sense, they’re a three-in-one.
They’re surprisingly stylish, too, and come in various sizes to fit better in your small space. The IKEA corner sofa is perfect for square rooms, and with an extra cushion, can be used to fit a lot of people.
Wall-Mounted Murphy Beds
Wall-mounted Murphy beds are the proper name for fold-down beds that are upright on a wall, and then pulled down. The main benefit is that when folded up vertically against the wall, it frees up 6 feet of floor space. Seeing as home gyms and working from home are so big now, it accommodates these.
Some designs, like the Clei Penelope 2 Sofa, even feature built-in desks, shelves, as well as a sofa.
Wall-mounted Murphy beds can be hand-made or modified to custom fit your circumstances. Believe it or not, it’s possible to have a fully functioning desk on the underside of the bed when it’s upright. With a pivot and stand, it gently folds up under the bed when sleeping.
Expandable Coffee-to-Dining Tables
Expandable coffee-to-dining tables are another game-changer. These versatile pieces can be adjusted in height and size, transforming from a compact coffee table to a full-size dining table in seconds. This makes it perfect for those who would prefer a coffee table, but have the ability to host guests over for dinner now and then.
Models like the Ozzio Mondial make it quick to flatten or stand upright, meaning you can change the utility and atmosphere of a room in moments.
Storage Ottomans and Modular Seating
Ottomans with hidden storage compartments are the perfect smart solution for small living. If you don’t mind sitting without a backrest (perhaps not as your main chain, but when guests are over), then it can be used for seating but with storage inside.
Their cubic design makes them modular, in that you can stack them upwards for vertical storage, or perhaps a desk when using two lots of double-stacked ottomans with wood over the top. In this case, they will need to be hard material and not cushioned (you can store small cushions inside).
Conclusion
Maximising space in small homes requires creativity and a willingness to compromise a little bit on design to get utility into the picture. However, because there is now big demand, options for trendy multi-use furniture have never been greater – and, nor have YouTube tutorials on how to make your own!