Transform Wasted Space Into Something Great

Living in a smaller space is better for the environment. You use less energy for climate control, and most people who live in small spaces tend to seriously think about every purchase ('Where will I put this?' is a constant question.)

If you live in a small space, you know all about making the most of every square inch. Storage is always at a premium, but have you really taken a look around your home to see if you're making the most of your space?

I recently stumbled across a photo from magazine Hus & Hem (found on Desire to Inspire) that had me thinking about creative ways to use all those wasted spaces in your home. In the image, a bookcase is built into a stairwell, and along the side of the bookcase is a feature wall that holds and displays magazines. It's a brilliant use of space.

So where are some of the areas where space is often wasted, the spaces that you can easily transform into something useful and maybe even spectacular?

Finding Space Under Stairs
Unless your stairs to the basement and to the upstairs are stacked (which admittedly is quite common), the space under stairs is the perfect size for a small two-piece washroom, a little reading nook, or a recessed shelving area for books.

Coping with Sloping Ceilings
If your top floor features sloped ceilings that come close to the floor, build some storage along the walls. One wall could feature a seating area, with storage below, while the opposite could serve as a deep platform or low headboard to highlight your bed--and it will situate your bed out from the wall enough that you won't end up with a bump on the head next time you wake up suddenly.

Transforming Alcoves
Many of us have an alcove or two in our homes, and their potential is rarely maximized. Build custom shelving, hang floating shelves, or create a flush storage unit to provide space for books, a collection, or other items that can clutter up the home. If your alcove is even a foot deep, you can create a built-in secretary desk with a fold-down workspace.

Giving an Extra Room Purpose
If you live in a larger home and have a spare or guest bedroom, give the space a purpose. Unless you have family visiting every weekend, your guest room will be best used if it has another purpose. Make it a den, a craft or sewing space, or an office if you work from home often enough. Whatever you do, make sure every room in your home has a purpose, otherwise it will become a dumping ground for things you never use (and, therefore, really don't need).

Maximizing all those unused spaces in your home will help you live more efficiently and, likely, more comfortably.