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Downsizing doesn’t mean what it used to. Sure, by definition, it’s all about consolidating the things or space you have and coming out of the process with less. That doesn’t sound like a good time. But actually, the act of downsizing—and the outcome for your new home—can be a lot of fun. In a world where housing prices are only increasing, getting creative with the space you have, no matter how teeny, is more important than ever. A recent study from tiny-home builder Clever Tiny Homes took a bunch of Google Search data for terms like “downsize house,” “tiny home,” and “small houses” and compared it to population data to find the states that are most interested in cutting back. Which came out on top? Tennessee.
With around 19,981 average monthly searches across the state for smaller homes and downsizing, this tells us that there’s probably a wealth of small-space inspiration across Tennessee—and beyond. Have you been considering a similar move? Transitioning to a smaller footprint doesn’t necessarily mean you have less to work with. We pulled three tips from people who have successfully honed in on their square footage to give you a bit of hope.
Line an Empty Hallway With Closets
If you’ve got a wall, there’s potential for storage space. One L.A. couple used sets of Reform cabinets to pack some function into their 1930s-era bungalow. Not only can it add some personality to an otherwise blank surface, but you can hide all of those winter outfits, extra blankets, and past birthday gifts you only pull out when Mom and Dad visit.
Buy Furniture That’s Easy to Rearrange
When creative Anthony Urbano moved from a one-bedroom apartment to a studio that was better suited for shooting content, he invested in a modular Bellini-inspired sofa that could be set up in different ways. Both this piece and his coffee table (which is actually a bunch of side tables placed next to each other) make his home über-flexible. Plus when he moves out, it’s likely his furniture will fit in his next space, too.
Get Clever With Dividers
Room dividers have slid out of college dorm room territory and right into the sophisticated apartment you quietly covet on Instagram. If you’re downsizing to a studio, you’ll want to section off your space into different “rooms” if you can: a place to dine, a spot to lounge, and an area to sleep. One easy way to do that is to find a sculptural screen that won’t steal from a room’s footprint. Take notes from this 260-square-foot (!) studio in New York City.