Homes seem to be getting tinier and tinier — or at least it can certainly feel that way if items begin piling up or you have an awkward layout that just doesn’t work with your lifestyle. But Drew and Jonathan Scott are here to prove that smaller spaces can feature loads of potential too, with these design elements meant to maximize any kind of space.
Hidden Storage
Tuck extraneous items and knickknacks away by utilizing the areas under kitchen islands, coffee tables, media units and more. Open shelves are great for displaying pretty or fun items, while the addition of simple doors give a tidier, more streamlined look.
Create an Open-Concept Vibe
Extend a floor plan with clean and open lines that automatically open up your space and make it feel less boxed in. Unable to add in weight-bearing beams? Enlarge door frames to give the illusion of an open-concept layout instead.
Don’t Crowd the Space
If your living room isn’t large, don’t cram in extra seating, storage units or media centres. Instead opt for functional pieces that give you what you want out of the room.
Select Appropriate Furniture
Why use a three-seater sofa when a two-seater will suffice? Meanwhile, smaller armchairs can pack just as much of a visual punch as large ones, while still offering the same amount of actual seating space.
Use the Corners
Corner cabinets are a homeowner’s best friend; who wouldn’t welcome the bonus storage and extra counter space?
Extend Kitchen Cabinets
In an open-concept kitchen, extending the cabinets further than the original plan won’t just create a better flow, it will also give you maximum storage space.
Go Small in the Bathroom
Soaker tubs are great, but a smaller tub and shower combo works well in a tight space. A small, modern toilet also takes up less space, allowing for a more functional and streamlined vanity with bonus storage underneath.
Modular Finishes
There isn’t much room for display on top of this small vanity, but thanks to the modular design of what little countertop space there is, is flat and usable.
Do Something Unexpected
Most people would use the smaller room with a fireplace as a living room, but the brothers proved that a fireplace can be just as quaint in a dining area, allowing the bigger room in this particular floor plan to become the living room instead.
Go for Gold
Metallic elements help to open up a space, giving the appearance of more square footage while adding instant luxury.
HGTV your inbox.
By clicking "SIGN UP” you agree to receive emails from HGTV and accept Corus' Terms of Use and Corus' Privacy Policy.