Maybe you found the perfect house in the perfect location, but after purchasing it, you realized it was a bit small. Or perhaps your family has grown over the years and space is getting filled up. Whatever your situation, if your Chicago home is feeling a little snug, it doesn’t necessarily mean you need to start house hunting for something bigger. If you love your home and want some help with maximizing the space, there are plenty of great strategies you can use. Here are some ideas worth considering:

Think Outside the House

If your house just doesn’t seem to have quite enough space, don’t forget that it’s not just about your home, it’s about your entire property. Look past the walls of your home when it comes to creating additional space. While you might not be able to use an outdoor area year-round, many Chicagoans love a fall evening around a backyard fire pit. So, get creative. Whether you have a patio or simply section off an area of the yard and add some outdoor furniture and decor, making use of your outdoor space can help your indoor space feel a bit less cramped.

Get Organized

One of the main reasons our homes can feel small is because of how much we put in them. Sometimes, you’ve truly outgrown the space and the only option is to move into something bigger. Other times, you may just need to declutter and pare down your belongings to free up some space. If you’re committed to making your home work best for you and your family, find out which things you may no longer need. After that, put some organization and storage systems in place that utilize those seldom-used spaces like underneath beds or the highest shelves in a closet.

Strategize

Depending on how small the space us, the rooms may need to serve multiple functions. If you have children, for instance, designing bedrooms for more than just sleeping can give them their own little oasis. Whether it’s incorporating furniture where they can do homework or a place to read or watch TV, creating a hangout space will help maximize the room.

Brighten it Up

Last thing — if your space is feeling cramped, light can help. Make sure you’re letting in as much natural light as possible. From there, go for lighter color palettes, with a few bursts of color. Bright, fresh design choices can make a room feel more spacious. Simplicity is key — less is almost always more when more, especially when it comes to a smaller space.

If you’d like to talk more about making the most of a small home, or if there’s something else I can be of assistance with, please reach out. I’m always happy to help.