Moving to a smaller home can be a challenge, but there are a number of strategies to help you make the most of your space and avoid excess items.
Space planning
Before you move, make a plan of your new flat, determining where you will place different furniture and items. This will help you to make better use of the available space.
Think about what is really needed
Before moving, it’s worth reviewing your belongings and considering which items are really essential. Get rid of items you don’t use or don’t need. You can sell them, give them away, or throw them away.
Organisation before the move
Before you start packing, organise your belongings. You can divide them into categories, e.g. clothes, books, dishes, and think about how much of each category of things you actually need.
Reducing unnecessary clothing
When it comes to clothes, it’s worth applying the “one-for-one rule.” This means that for every new item you buy, try to get rid of one old item. You can also go through seasonal clothing reviews and get rid of the ones you don’t wear.
Choosing functional furniture when moving into a new flat
If you can, choose furniture that is functional and provides extra storage space. Examples include beds with bedding storage, sofas with storage compartments, coffee tables with drawers, etc.
Use multifunctional furniture
Multi-functional furniture, such as folding tables, chairs with storage space or sofas that fold out into a bed, can help make the most of space in a smaller flat.
Storage furniture
Some furniture, such as boxes or coffee tables with containers, can help to store small items while also serving a decorative function.
Shelves and shelving in the flat
Install shelves and bookcases on the walls to increase storage space for books, decorations, and other small items. However, remember not to overload them to avoid creating the impression of clutter.
Vertical space
If you have limited floor space, make use of wall space. This means hanging shelves, hooks and organisers to store items and free up floor space.
Consider built-in furniture
Where possible, install built-in furniture such as built-in wardrobes or dressing tables to utilise storage space up to the ceiling.
Movable partitions in a small flat
In the case of open spaces, such as a studio, the use of movable partitions or curtains can help to separate different zones, making the flat appear more spacious.
Use the space under the bed
You can place bins or drawers under the bed to store things you rarely use, such as seasonal clothes.
Electronic minimalism
Today’s electronics are increasingly compact, saving space. Make sure the electronics in your home are really needed and used.
Decorative minimalism in the home
Choose simple and minimalist decoration to avoid a feeling of cluttered space. Fewer decorative elements mean more visual space.
Organise your kitchen space
In the kitchen, use organisers for drawers and cupboards to better organise dishes, pots and utensils.
Control the paper work
In the digital age, a lot of documents and papers can be stored electronically. Use a scanner or document management app to reduce the amount of paperwork and invoices in your home.
Recycling and processing
Make it easy to get rid of unused items by recycling or donating them to charities. Not only does this help others, but it also helps keep your home tidy.
Lighting a small flat
Bright lighting can make a space appear larger and more open. Use a variety of light sources, such as mirrors, to diffuse light and create a feeling of spaciousness.
Storage away from home
If you have items that you don’t use every day, consider storing them outside your home, for example in a rented storage unit.
Cyclical review and disposal of items
Regularly go through your belongings and get rid of those you don’t use. This will help you avoid accumulating excess items.
Organisation and tidiness in the new flat
Keep things tidy on a regular basis to avoid clutter. Put things in order after they have been used and keep shelves and cupboards tidy.
Rethink shopping for a new home
Before you buy a new item, think about whether you really need it. Try to make informed purchases and avoid buying things on impulse.
Adapt to your needs
Make sure that the organisation of the space suits your daily needs. It’s important that your home is functional and suited to your lifestyle.
Moving from house to flat
Moving to a smaller flat requires some creativity and organisation, but by applying the strategies above, you can significantly improve your use of available space and avoid excess items.
