I’m a home stylist and my zoning technique makes the most of small rooms – you’ll have room for storage without the mess
A SIMPLE design choice gives the illusion of a bigger space and makes it easier to prevent mess, according to a home stylist.
She revealed the techniques she swears by for maximizing space even in the smallest property.
Jade Oliver is an expert at UK-based company Express Bi-Folding Doors, specializing in home transformations.
She told The U.S. Sun that creativity is needed to make the most of any available space and doing so can add value to a property.
She revealed the best techniques for making rooms seem more spacious without sacrificing storage solutions.
CREATE ZONES
Oliver recommended dividing larger rooms or open spaces into zones based on their functions.
She said this allows homeowners to use the areas more effectively while also making it “easier” to maintain cleanliness and order.
“This zoning approach allows you to create a space capable of accommodating multiple activities or functions within the same area,” she said.
“For instance, a living room could be subdivided into distinct zones for lounging, entertainment, and work, allowing each activity to coexist seamlessly without disrupting the others.
“This clear division ensures that the room maintains visual clarity, preventing it from feeling cluttered or chaotic even when a lot is going on all at once.
“Furthermore, clearly defined pathways between zones facilitate smooth traffic flow, improving the overall functionality and usability of the space.
“Additionally, creating zones can help you integrate storage solutions in the room’s design.
“For example, a designated work zone in a kitchen or home office could incorporate built-in shelving, cabinets, or drawers to provide convenient storage for supplies and equipment, ensuring they remain easily accessible yet neatly out of sight.”
EXTRA ROOM
The home stylist revealed an external garden room is the perfect alternative to a home extension or converting an existing space.
She said the cost-effective solution provides extra space and can be used for countless purposes.
“Whether you’re in need of a separate outdoor office space or a dedicated garden bar area, the simple addition of an external room could be just what you need,” she said.
Tips for making a small room look bigger
JJ Hornig, founder of Roxy Rentals, told The U.S. Sun her top hacks for making a room appear bigger.
- Wallpaper on the ceiling: Hornig explained, “When making a space look larger or adding a new level of style, one big power play is drawing the eyes up.”
- Embrace vertical space: This trick helps to “free up valuable floor space and draw the eye upward, making the room feel taller.”
- Opt for multi-functional furniture: Pieces with built-in storage can create more space in your home.
- Choose a “light and airy palette with pops of color.”
- Elevate your room with statement artwork.
“While a typical extension is one that still connects to your house in some form, a garden room extension is entirely detached.
“This means you could have it constructed near the side of your house or at the base of the garden in a concealed nook, so long as it is not physically connected to your residence.
“However, a garden room extension is more than just a shed or summer hut.
“They’re literally an extra room for your home – albeit one that you have to go outside to access.
“They’re almost always constructed and insulated in the same way as a standard space and can be upgraded to house a variety of garden room décor ideas.”
GLASS DOORS
Oliver previously revealed having the right doors can make your property feel bigger.
She said they should allow natural light in for a more open feel.
“Glazed doors such as bi-folding doors, sliding doors or French doors, skylights or floor-to-ceiling windows do exactly that as they give the impression of more space by allowing plenty of light into the home,” she said.
“They also connect the indoors with the outdoors, blurring the distinction between interior and exterior spaces and expanding the usable area of the home.