New builds are popping up at an astonishing rate to accommodate the UK’s growing population. Over the past few decades, the average family home has become increasingly smaller, so with less space available it’s imperative that we find innovative and creative ways to maximise every square centimetre.
Even if you have a sizeable property, it’s likely that you’ll have at least one area which you’ll find difficult to make the most out of. Whether it’s a tiny box room which is impossible to furnish adequately or a master bedroom with tricky corners, there are numerous ways in which you can utilise awkward spaces.
Think Multipurpose
If you have a spare room in your home, it can be difficult to decide what to do with it. You may require a room in which guests can stay but, with limited space, you may need the room as a home study too. In this case, you should consider a multipurpose room. Even smaller rooms can be expertly designed with dual functionality, and the installation of a wall bed is the ideal solution. Drop the bed down smoothly when required, then fold it away discreetly to use the floor space.
Those awkward corners and features, such as beams and sloping ceilings, may render certain areas of your home unsuitable for freestanding furniture. Fitted cupboards and floating shelves are the perfect way to fill a difficult space and will provide additional storage. The space under your staircase is a prime example. Often overlooked, there is often ample space for a large fitted cupboard or even a handy work from home area. You may have an ideal spot on your landing for a window seat with useful storage within it or an alcove which could stylishly accommodate a slimline desk.
Lighten Up
Awkward spaces are often quite dark as natural light tends not to hit them as much as it does other areas. Brighten up these spots and create the illusion of extra space with integrated lighting. Down lights are perfect for this and will also provide focused lighting should you have a desk, dressing table or worktop within the space. A lamp could turn the nook into an attractive feature, where you could display and highlight a favourite piece of art, or a mirror which would effectively bounce the light around creating a more spacious feel.
Vertical storage solutions are perfect for awkward spaces. They take up little to no floor area and offer a more streamlined look. By storing items on the floor, you immediately lose valuable floor space but by using walls for fitted or hanging storage solutions, you can utilise all the wall space in that particular area without making your room feel cluttered or cramped.
Making the most out of a small or awkwardly shaped room can seem like a difficult and somewhat daunting task. Freestanding furniture may not be an option and you could end up not using those spaces at all. At Hartleys Bedrooms, we offer a bespoke design service, specifically modelled to create stylish storage solutions for rooms of all dimensions. Our dedicated team of experts can visit your home and design and fit furniture which is tailored specifically to your room and your personal requirements. Make an appointment to visit our Yorkshire showroom or arrange a design consultation on 01756 700471. We look forward to making the most of your space!