Whether you’re thinking about downsizing, settling into your new home in one of our Lifestyle Estates, or just wanting to refresh your decor, a smaller space doesn’t have to mean sacrificing style. With smart storage solutions, multi-functional furniture, and thoughtful use of natural light, you can create a home that’s both comfortable and functional. By adding meaningful personal touches, you can transform your low-maintenance home into a space that reflects your personality and lifestyle. Here are our top ten tips to help you maximise your space and elevate your style.

This light and airy living area in the Arden utilises a few pieces of multi-functional furniture such as a nesting side table and a glass coffee table with a shelf for storage underneath.

1. Choose Multi-Functional Furniture

When space is at a premium, furniture that serves more than one purpose is a game changer. Look for items like sofa beds, ottomans with hidden storage, or extendable dining tables. These pieces offer flexibility, allowing you to adapt your space for different needs, whether you’re hosting guests or simply relaxing.

Examples:

  • A daybed can function as a couch by day and a guest bed for the grandkids by night.
  • A coffee table with built-in storage can hold books, magazines, or blankets.
  • Nesting tables can be used separately when needed and stacked to save space. Perfect for placing extra drinks and snacks on when you have guests over.

2. Declutter and Prioritise Essentials

Before moving into your downsized home, take time to declutter. Assess your belongings and keep only the items you truly need or love. A good rule of thumb is to ask yourself: “Does this item add value to my life?” By letting go of unnecessary possessions, you’ll free up space and make your home feel more open and organised.

Tips:

  • Donate or sell items you no longer need.
  • Use the “one-in, one-out” rule: for every new item you bring in, let go of an old one.
  • Read our full blog post on the art of decluttering.

 

3. Maximise Vertical Space

Vertical space is often underutilised. Take advantage of your walls by installing shelves, hooks, or wall-mounted cabinets. Tall bookcases and storage units draw the eye upward, creating the illusion of a larger room while providing additional storage.

Ideas:

  • Use floating shelves for books, plants, or decorative items.
  • Hang hooks for coats, bags, or kitchen utensils.
  • Make the most of built-in robes and the upper the upper row of shelves. Just make sure to keep a step ladder handy and be extra careful when reaching for high spaces.

4. Use Light Colours and Reflective Surfaces

Light colours can make a small room feel larger and more inviting. Stick to a neutral colour palette for your walls and larger furniture pieces, and incorporate reflective surfaces like mirrors and glass to enhance the sense of space.

Tips:

  • Paint walls in soft, neutral tones such as white, beige, or light grey.
  • Use mirrors strategically to reflect light and create depth. Many of our homes feature mirrored wardrobes in the bedrooms, creating the illusion of double the space while adding a sleek and modern touch.
  • Choose glass or acrylic furniture to reduce visual clutter.

This lightweight patio furniture offers plenty of seating while maintaining an open feel, ensuring your line of sight from the living room to the backyard is unobstructed.

5. Opt for Lightweight and Compact Furniture

Bulky furniture can overwhelm a small space. Choose pieces with a slim profile and exposed legs to create a sense of openness. Modular or foldable furniture is another great option, as it can be adjusted or tucked away when not in use.

Suggestions:

  • Select a sleek sofa with narrow arms.
  • If you have any outdoor space, use furniture to extend your usable living area. Opt for slim, airy designs made from materials like aluminium or rattan that are easy to move and won’t overwhelm the space, allowing for better flow and functionality.

 

 

6. Create Zones for Functionality

Most of our homes utilise open-plan layouts to make your living space flow and feel larger. However, even in a small home, it’s important to define different areas for specific activities. Use furniture placement, rugs, or lighting to delineate zones for living, dining and working.

Placing a rug under your dining table and seating areas can help create visual separation between spaces.

 

Ideas:

  • If your kitchen, dining and living areas flow into one, try placing a rug under the dining table to visually separate it from the living area.
  • Install task lighting in your work area to distinguish it from the rest of the room.

7. Incorporate Smart Storage Solutions

Effective storage is key to maintaining a clutter-free home. Look for furniture with built-in storage or explore creative ways to maximise existing spaces, such as under beds or stairs.

Examples:

  • Use under-bed storage boxes for seasonal clothing or linens.
  • Install pull-out drawers in kitchen cabinets for better organisation.
  • Add baskets or bins to open shelving for a tidy appearance.

8. Personalise with Intentional Decor

While it’s important to avoid overcrowding, adding personal touches can make your downsized home feel like your own. If you’re moving from a large family home, you will likely have plenty of photos and trinkets collected over the years (even after decluttering). Choose just a few meaningful items to display, such as family photos, your favourite painting, or cherished heirlooms.

A simple pot plant adds a pop of colour to this popular Bancroft design, contrasting against the muted tones.

Ideas:

  • Rotate decor items seasonally to keep your space fresh.
  • Limit decorative items to avoid clutter while ensuring each piece adds value.

 

9. Add Greenery for a Fresh and Spacious Feel

Incorporate indoor plants to bring life and energy to your home. Greenery not only enhances the aesthetic appeal of your space but also helps create a sense of openness and tranquillity. A well-placed plant can soften corners, add a splash of colour, and make your downsized home feel fresh and inviting.

Tips:

  • Opt for low-maintenance plants like peace lilies, pothos, or succulents, and use vertical plant stands or hanging planters to save floor space.
  • Use plants to liven up a corner or add visual interest to areas where functional furniture or storage won’t fit.

 

10. Remember to Keep It Simple

A minimalist approach works best in a smaller space. Focus on quality over quantity, and choose versatile pieces that can adapt to your changing needs. A streamlined, uncluttered environment will feel more spacious and serene.

By following these furnishing tips, you can create a downsized home that is both functional and beautiful. Remember, it’s not about the size of the space but how you make it your own. With thoughtful planning and intentional choices, your new home can be a place of comfort, style, and joy.

Thoughtfully designed for you Image

Thoughtfully designed for you

Each home in our Lifestyle Estates is carefully crafted to help you make the most of your space. From clever storage solutions and multi-functional features to open layouts that maximise natural light and flow, every aspect is crafted to create a home that feels spacious, comfortable, and practical. However, with these tips, you can take it a step further and personalise your home to unlock its full potential. Whether it’s choosing multi-purpose furniture, incorporating greenery, or optimising vertical storage, these ideas will help you create a home that perfectly suits your needs and lifestyle.

Find your new home