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With the rental market being as competitive as it is, any switched-on landlord with a compact property should be looking for ways to maximise the space available there to help them stand out from the competition.
And when it comes to maximising space in compact properties there are two main techniques available – one is to actually create new physical space in the property. The other is to create the illusion of space through smart design.
Creating New Physical Space in Your Rental Property
This method, naturally, is harder to achieve and likely to prove considerably more costly. It can also make a more substantial difference to your property.
Start out by analysing your property’s strengths and weaknesses. Does it have any non-load bearing walls which can knocked down to make more space? Is the ceiling tall enough to allow for the creation of mezzanine levels?
If the answer to the second question is yes, then you have the opportunity to make some serious space savings.
How to Include Mezzanine Levels in Small Properties
Mezzanine levels create new space by essentially creating a room within a room.
Their midway position between floor and ceiling means that the space both under and over the mezzanine level can be used.
A rule of thumb is that a ceiling height of 14ft will allow for the creation of both a mezzanine level and a functioning area below it.
If the ceiling is lower than 12ft it may still be possible to have a mezzanine level but with the space below it used for storage rather than as a living area.
Think whether a person of average height could comfortably stand under the mezzanine platform and whether the space above could be used as a study, or a play area for children, or most popularly, a bed.
Making Mezzanine Levels Look Good
Spiral staircases are a popular way of accessing mezzanine levels as they take up relatively little space.
However, remember that should you want to use a linear staircase you may well be able to insert storage space under the staircase.
If you are dreaming of covering the entire surface area of your property with a mezzanine level and effectively doubling your space, hold your horses.
Architects advise that to be successful, a good mezzanine level should avoid covering more than 50% of the surface area.
And remember that as a highly visible structure the mezzanine itself will have a huge impact on the visual feel of your property so carefully consider the materials you use.
Don’t in other words, automatically budget for the cheapest materials on the market as this might backfire and create less of a sensation of space.
And don’t forget that while a mezzanine doesn’t need planning permission, the staircase leading to any habitable space (i.e. non-storage space) needs to comply with building regulations.
A loft bed may be a cheaper solution than a mezzanine floor and might still allow room to create a study area underneath for example.
How to Deal with Space Minimising Design Features
Meanwhile if your property has design features that minimise the available space such as chimneys, low sloped ceilings or fireplaces that jut out into rooms, don’t despair.
These can also act as an opportunity to install built-in storage in the spaces between the features themselves and corners.
After all, creating sufficient storage space can offset many of the disadvantages of compact properties.
Creating Sufficient Storage in a Small Home has Vast Benefits
While it isn’t absolutely necessary for landlords to channel their inner Marie Kondo to get rid of clutter, consider that a 2019 survey in the US found more people were bothered by clutter in the home than dirt.
The survey discovered that 27% of Americans believed clutter to be the most annoying kind of mess to be found in a home.
This compared to 18% for human and pet hair, 15% for dirt or sand, 14% for crumbs and spills and 12% for stains.
As if that wasn’t bad enough, a 2010 study focusing on married couples in LA found women who thought their homes were cluttered had increased levels of stress hormone cortisol throughout the day (men, however, did not).
Clutter may be the scourge of compact homes, but clever storage can prove the antidote.
Whenever possible conceal storage – obvious places to do so include under beds, or, in furnished spaces, in ottomans which can serve as coffee tables or seating.
Creating Storage Space in a Small Property
Avoid large free-standing storage pieces – they can make the space seem more crowded.
If your property has stairs, creating under stair storage should be a logical step for you.
Try to get away from the old-style “cloakroom” which wastes a large amount of space.
For a more contemporary feel and greater design, experts advise mixing various cabinets of different sizes at different heights to create more usable storage space.
If you have more vertical space than horizontal space – common in flats created from older properties which have been divided up – create vertical storage solutions.
Look for recesses or nooks or free space in front of a window.
Foldable furniture can be an effective way of minimising clutter. Tables which fold into the wall can be accompanied by folding chairs, which hang above it.
Wall beds are another space-saving option, though they need to be paired with an appropriate layout to make sure the space vacated by the folding bed can be quickly and efficiently used.
If,however, your property (or your budget) fail to lend themselves to these solutions, then it’s time to turn to design.
Add Light to A Small Property for Maximum Effect
When it comes to perception of space, light is our friend. If your property is dark, it may be worth considering installing skylights or roof windows, especially if the property is in a loft space.
These are relatively expensive features but ones which can totally transform a home.
Mirrors are your friend when it comes to creating the illusion of space. But just as mirrors can give the impression of widening a room, gloss or semi-gloss paint can spread the light and make rooms feel more expansive.
Design features which send the eye upward can also make the room appear larger – think full-length shelves which rise from the floor to the ceiling.
Choose Furniture for Small Spaces Carefully
When it comes to furniture, care should be taken with beds in general, as this is generally the largest piece of furniture in a home and can take up space.
Think how large the bed needs to be. Just because you have inherited an old king size bed doesn’t mean it will be the right fit for a studio apartment, for example.
In general, avoid large clunky pieces of furniture. If ceilings are low, for example, try to find lower rise pieces of furniture.
Lighter Colour Schemes Work Best for Small Spaces
Even something as simple as a fresh coat of paint can make a difference – though of course the colour itself is also important.
Stick to a light colour scheme both in terms of furniture and the walls themselves. White paint is popular for a reason – it creates a light and airy vibe that will never go out of fashion. Use touches of colour here and there if you feel confident but don’t be afraid to keep it white if you aren’t.
When it comes to maximising space above all be ruthless. Don’t be afraid to get rid of a piece of furniture if it is spoiling the effect.
Remember that is in this area, less really is more.
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