By Sitha Maliwa:
Your first home will always have a special place in your heart, but let’s be honest, that’s probably all the space there is. Small rooms, small cupboards, dual living spaces – there isn’t much space to spread out. However, that doesn’t mean you have to accept this and squeeze in; there are clever ways to make your “small but stylish” home work for you.
“Small-space living doesn’t have to mean sacrificing comfort or style,” explains Bronwyn Ragavan, brand manager for Personal Touch. “Whether you’re in your first bachelor pad, a cozy studio, or even a university dorm room, clever organisation and intentional design can make your home feel spacious, stylish, and stress-free.”
With the right strategies, even the tiniest of homes can feel open, organised, and inviting. Ragavan suggests the following eight hacks for giving your small home a little more space:
1. Think vertically and go up
Maximise every inch by looking upwards. Installing floating shelves and using tall bookshelves not only provides extra storage but also draws the eye upward, creating the illusion of height. “Install floating shelves, use tall bookshelves and choose stable storage options. Over-the-door organisers, wall-mounted hooks, and even hanging plants make the most of your vertical space while adding personality,” says Ragavan.
2. Choose multi-functional furniture
In a small space, furniture should do more than just look good. “A bed frame with storage drawers (or one with space underneath for storage drawers), a coffee table that lifts for a dining table or work desk, or an ottoman to store blankets and other items,” Ragavan suggests. With modern furniture designs focusing on versatility, these smart pieces are key to making the most of your home.
3. Mirrors create space
One of the oldest tricks in the book for opening up a room is using mirrors. Not only do they add style, but they also reflect light and space. “The illusion of depth can instantly make a room feel larger. If positioned opposite a window, this can double the natural light and open the space,” says Ragavan.
4. Declutter with intention
Less is definitely more when it comes to small space living. Keep your home feeling calm and breathable by cutting back on clutter. “Keep surfaces clear and organise by category. Donate or sell anything you don’t use regularly. Use under-bed storage boxes and vacuum bags to store out-of-season clothing and bedding. Small space living naturally encourages minimalism. Choose quality over quantity and invest in pieces that bring both joy and function. The less cluttered your environment, the more peaceful and breathable it feels,” she adds.
5. Define your zones
Open-plan or studio living doesn’t mean you can’t create boundaries. “Use rugs, shelving units, or curtains to separate your sleeping area from your workspace or living zone. Giving each section a clear purpose makes the space feel larger and more functional,” says Ragavan. Visual separation helps give a sense of order and intentionality to a home.
6. Stick to light and neutral colours
Your choice of colour palette can significantly influence how big or small a room feels. “Stick to light, neutral tones to make your apartment feel airy and open. Soft whites, pastels, and warm greys reflect light and visually expand the room. Add pops of colour through art, cushions, or plants,” she advises.
7. Downsize your essentials
When buying everyday items, think compact and efficient. “When purchasing everyday items for your home, such as cleaning products, and cutlery and crockery – don’t overdo it. Look for smaller options that can fit in your home without crowding it. Personal Touch’s Washing Powder Sheets come in an A5, 90g box and include 18 washes without taking up too much space. Perfect for any tiny cupboard,” says Ragavan.
8. Use every hidden nook
Don’t let any space go to waste. “Use every hidden nook: the top of the fridge, the space behind doors, or even inside your headboard. Baskets, clear bins, and label makers are lifesavers when it comes to keeping small spaces neat and accessible,” she suggests.
Living large in a small space
Apartment living is all about maximising space while maintaining your personal style. With a few smart tweaks and creative hacks, your small space can feel like a luxurious retreat. As Ragavan sums it up: “After all, it’s not about how much space you have, it’s about what you do with it.” – @NewsSA_Online
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