Big Ideas for Small Spaces: Home Improvement Hacks

Living in a small space doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice style, comfort, or functionality. Whether you’re working with a cozy apartment or a small home, the right home improvement hacks can help you make the most of every square foot.

Explore some creative and practical hacks to help you maximize the space you have. Plus, if you’ve been thinking about upgrading to a larger home, learn why tapping into your home equity or exploring mortgage options might be the perfect solution for more space.

1. Embrace Multifunctional Furniture

In a small space, furniture that can serve double duty can be a lifesaver. Look into coffee tables with storage, ottomans that turn into extra seating, or even a sofa that folds out into a bed. Multifunctional furniture is one of the most effective ways to free up valuable floor space while still providing essential functions.

Tip: Consider a folding dining table or wall-mounted desks that can be tucked away when not in use.

2. Utilize Vertical Space

When your square footage is limited, look up! High shelving units, wall-mounted hooks, and overhead storage are great ways to keep your possessions organized without cluttering the floor. The more you can take advantage of your vertical space, the more you’ll feel like your small home is suddenly more expansive.

Tip: Install open shelving or floating shelves to store books, plants, and decorative items.

3. Get Creative with Nooks and Crannies

Every nook in your home is an opportunity for functional storage or cozy seating. An underutilized hallway, a corner by the window, or the space beneath your stairs all have potential.

Tip: Carve out a reading nook or small home office in a quiet corner.

4. Go for Minimalism

In small spaces, less is truly more. Opting for a minimalist design not only makes your space look cleaner but also reduces the need for excessive furniture. Choose streamlined pieces whenever possible and keep surfaces clutter-free.

Tip: Declutter regularly and focus on investing in pieces that serve both aesthetic and functional purposes.

5. Create Zones

In smaller homes, it’s a good idea to establish distinct areas for different activities. Whether you’re defining a reading corner, a workspace, or a dining area, creating these zones can help your space feel organized and purposeful.

Tip: Use rugs, lighting, or furniture placement to visually separate areas.

6. Storage, Storage, Storage

When space is limited, smart storage solutions are your best friend. From wall-mounted hooks and baskets to hidden drawers and bins, organizing your home efficiently can give you more room to breathe.

Tip: Consider installing custom storage solutions in your closets.

7. Incorporate Light to Make Space Feel Bigger

A well-lit room always feels bigger. Use a combination of natural light, mirrors, and well-placed lamps to open up your space. Light-colored walls and furniture can also reflect light and make your home feel larger.

Tip: Add mirrors strategically to reflect light and create the illusion of more space.

8. Is It Time to Move to a Bigger Home?

If you’ve tried every space-saving hack and still feel cramped, it might be time to consider other options. Using the equity in your current home to expand or exploring a new mortgage could help you find a space that better fits your needs.

Tip: Reach out to a mortgage advisor to discuss your options for upgrading your space.

Wondering How to Accomplish Home Improvements?

While all of these tips are great options for making the most of a small space, you might be wondering how to accomplish these improvements. A Home Equity Loan or Line of Credit is a perfect option to complete these updates through your status as a homeowner. Through these products, you’re able to take advantage of your home’s value and borrow funds to make these repairs possible.

With a Fixed-Rate Home Equity Loan from American Heritage, you can borrow up to 95% of your home’s value with a loan term of up to 20 years. You’ll have peace of mind knowing you’ll have consistent monthly payments through the loan’s fixed rate. This loan is an excellent option when you know exactly what kind of updates you intend to apply to your home and how much they’ll cost.

If you’re seeking more flexibility in using your funds and in their terms, a Home Equity Line of Credit may be a better option for you. If you’re hoping to maintain a fixed rate, our Platinum Fixed-Rate Home Equity Line of Credit allows you to maintain a 3 year draw period, where payments won’t start until you begin to draw funds. You can also enjoy repayment options of 5, 10, or 15 years.

Click here to learn more about Home Equity products with American Heritage.

Seeking Your Next Home?

As your family grows, your needs may expand beyond the upgrades you can apply to your current home. If you’re starting to consider finding your family’s next home, American Heritage is here for all of your homebuying needs. We’re proud to offer mortgage rates much lower than the national average, as well as homebuying services you won’t find with a conventional bank. Click here to learn more about mortgages with American Heritage.

Our My CU Home Connection Program is an excellent option for families looking to sell their homes. When you work with an authorized My CU Home Connection real estate agent, you’ll receive a discounted commission rate. This program is just one of the many benefits you can enjoy and take advantage of as a member of American Heritage.