Ideas About Making A Small Space Work For A Family

Do you live in a small house or apartment and have children? Designing designated areas for children and adults in a small space requires creativity and efficient use of space. Here are some strategies to create functional, designated areas while maintaining a cohesive look and keeping the mess at bay:

1. Multi-Functional Furniture

Sofa Beds or Murphy Beds: If you have the space, use a sofa bed in the living area for guests or a Murphy bed in a multi-use room. This can free up space during the day.

Storage Ottomans and huge baskets: Incorporate ottomans and baskets that double as storage to keep toys and games out of sight when not in use.

2. Defined Zones with Rugs

Area Rugs: Use area rugs to visually delineate spaces. For example, a colourful rug can define a children’s play area in the living room, while a neutral rug can create a cozy adult seating area.

3. Vertical Space Utilization

Wall Shelves: Install shelves high up for adult books for decor and lower shelves or cubbies for children’s toys and books. This keeps items accessible to each group while maintaining a tidy appearance. Remember to fasten the shelf to the wall for safety.

Hooks and Pegboards: Use hooks or pegboards near the entrance for adult items (bags, keys) and a lower section for children's items (coats, hats).

Shelves, Shelves, Shelves: I think we have shelves in every room!

4. Designated Play Area

Corner Play Zone: Create a small corner for kids with a small table and chairs for crafts or reading, along with a toy storage unit.

Baskets and Bins: Use decorative baskets or bins to store toys and craft supplies. This makes cleanup easy and keeps the area organized. Depending on the age of the kids, you may want to store some of their things where they cannot access them until you decide.

5. Quiet Adult Retreat

Cozy Reading Nook: If space allows, create a small reading nook in a corner with a comfy chair and a small side table. Use a bookshelf to separate this space from the kids' area.

Screen or Divider: Use a decorative screen or room divider to create a sense of separation without closing off the space completely. This can help adults feel like they have a private area.

6. Flexible Dining/Work Area

Expandable Dining Table: Use a small, extendable dining table that can serve as a meal space or a homework area for older kids. When not in use, it can remain compact to free up space.

Wall-Mounted Desks: Consider a fold-down desk for adults to work or engage in hobbies, which can be tucked away when not in use.

7. Color and Decor Differentiation

Color Themes: Use different color schemes or decor styles to distinguish areas. For example, bright colors for the kids’ space and neutral tones for the adult area can help define boundaries.

Artwork and Decor: Display children’s artwork in their area while keeping adult decor more sophisticated, creating visual cues for each zone.

8. Shared Family Space

Multi-Use Common Area: Design the living area as a shared space that accommodates both adults and children by using a large, comfortable sofa and adding child-friendly elements (like a small play area).

Game and Activity Storage: Use a console table, storage bench or dresser in the living room that can hold board games and crafts for family nights while also serving as adult decor. We had our tv, on top of a dresser and the dresser held our games and videos.

9. Outdoor Connection

Balcony or Patio Space: If available, create an outdoor area for both kids and adults. Use child-safe furniture and toys on one side, while maintaining a small seating area for adults to enjoy coffee or relaxation.

By thoughtfully designing these areas with a focus on multi-functionality and clear visual boundaries, you can create a harmonious living space that accommodates the needs of both children and adults in a small home or apartment.

Sometimes we can’t have the bigger space we may want, but you can always “bloom where you are planted”.