The Money Mustache Community
General Discussion => Welcome and General Discussion => Topic started by: Zikoris on August 21, 2014, 10:49:13 PM
-
I recently moved to a much smaller apartment, and have been fiddling around with it to try to get the most space. Could any of the small-spaces efficiency geniuses of the Mustachian forums offer improvements? My goal is to maximize space. I'm open to getting rid of things or replacing the furniture I have with more space-efficient options.
Here's an album of my apartment, including the floor plan. It's 400 square feet: http://imgur.com/a/OdC3L (http://imgur.com/a/OdC3L)
The only requirement is that I need space by the large windows for my drying rack. When folded out, it's about the same width of the kitchen table, and about half as long as the set of windows. Well, that and I can't block the space where the bed folds down out of the wall.
Thanks!
Edit 1: Here's Version 2.0, based on reader suggestions: http://imgur.com/a/CvkHu (http://imgur.com/a/CvkHu)
Edit 2: The latest pictures, based on suggestions: http://imgur.com/a/jyu0B (http://imgur.com/a/jyu0B)
Edit 3: Probably the last one, finally got the TV mounted, etc: http://imgur.com/a/gljfT (http://imgur.com/a/gljfT)
-
Wow, what a roomy apartment! (I live in 250 square feet)
Two things I noticed immediately: 1 - you have a lot of furniture (do you really need it all?), 2 - you have a huge open space in the middle of your room! Can't you move your table there?
-
Wow, what a roomy apartment! (I live in 250 square feet)
Two things I noticed immediately: 1 - you have a lot of furniture (do you really need it all?), 2 - you have a huge open space in the middle of your room! Can't you move your table there?
Which furniture would you get rid of, and where would you put the stuff on it if it's a shelf or desk? Definitely down to ditch furniture.
A lot of the open space is where the bed goes when it folds down. Putting things in that area would make a bit of an obstacle course any time the bed is down. We do move the table to the middle when he have guests (it folds out to seat 6) and it works very well with the bed up.
-
If you can't go horizontal you have to go vertical. Install shelves for storage space. For example you have a lot of empty space above your toilet in the bathroom, you can install an over the toilet shelve, something like this http://www.amazon.com/Sauder-Wall-Cabinet-White-Finish/dp/B00B5H5VBA/ref=pd_sim_hi_6?ie=UTF8&refRID=1J6Y75N9D51WJN2157FP.
For your main room some book shelves and ceiling mounted shelves like this http://www.kitchensource.com/garage/hp-cg2001.htm.
You can put some of your clothes in bins as well, this saves a lot of closet space and can let you put things other than clothes in them.
I noticed that you have a lot of chairs as well. But when in small spaces try to purchase things that are multi-purpose. I seed that you have a monitor and a TV, you can get a larger monitor and eliminate the TV altogether.
-
If you can't go horizontal you have to go vertical. Install shelves for storage space. For example you have a lot of empty space above your toilet in the bathroom, you can install an over the toilet shelve, something like this http://www.amazon.com/Sauder-Wall-Cabinet-White-Finish/dp/B00B5H5VBA/ref=pd_sim_hi_6?ie=UTF8&refRID=1J6Y75N9D51WJN2157FP.
For your main room some book shelves and ceiling mounted shelves like this http://www.kitchensource.com/garage/hp-cg2001.htm.
You can put some of your clothes in bins as well, this saves a lot of closet space and can let you put things other than clothes in them.
I noticed that you have a lot of chairs as well. But when in small spaces try to purchase things that are multi-purpose. I seed that you have a monitor and a TV, you can get a larger monitor and eliminate the TV altogether.
I LOVE the hanging shelves - what a great idea! I'll have to go looking for something like that. Same for putting up something in the bathroom. for extra storage. I've definitely been thinking it would be nice to have more bathroom storage - our last bathroom was HUGE and had an actual linen closet, so this is a big change.
We only use the TV for console gaming (PS3 and Wii right now, getting PS4 soon). I'm not very technologically advanced - can those hook up to a computer monitor?
-
We only use the TV for console gaming (PS3 and Wii right now, getting PS4 soon). I'm not very technologically advanced - can those hook up to a computer monitor?
Yes- BUT- not all computer monitors have the correct inputs without adapters. For example, older monitors will only have VGA or some other connector. The consoles have things like HDMI and maybe compnent I assume. Most modern monitors have HDMI included, very few have component.. so it really depends on which connectors your consoles have, and which inputs your monitor has. (You could look around and sell a monitor, buying one with the correct inputs.. but only if you really really want to)
I have a Dell Ultrasharp U2421, which has a daddling array of inputs. My older dell before this one had only VGA and DVI. (AKA no consoles would work without an adapter, or at all for some)
-
I agree you must utilize the vertical space (i.e. overhead shelves). I'm assuming there are 2 of you because of 2 computers. if there is just 1 of you, I don't know why you need chairs in 4 different styles.
keep the folding chairs folded up until company arrives and move one of the wooden chairs over to the table. When it's time to eat if both of you want to eat together, move the other wooden chair from the 2nd computer desk area over to the table.
Now, you've freed up a tiny bit of space in front of your closet.
A thought for how to use that space; you could fill 2 plastic tote tubs with stuff and then stack them between your bed and closet and it could function as a night stand, if you want it to look nicer, you could throw a tablecloth over it.
There are no nightstands in my home. we have filing cabinets as our nightstands. Try to think of dual uses for large pieces of furnitre.
Like that table, I like it and I like that it is folding (I have the same one I think, IKEA?) but it seems like we could find something to function both as a table and a type of storage? maybe....
also, if that drying rack if for clothes (I assume) you could hang a retractable line somewhere and possibly cut out the need for a drying rack that takes up so much space.
also, if you put that cat on a diet you'd free up a little space! (just kidding....kinda) ;-)
-
keep the folding chairs folded up until company arrives and move one of the wooden chairs over to the table. When it's time to eat if both of you want to eat together, move the other wooden chair from the 2nd computer desk area over to the table.
See, this is why the forums are so great - this is so obvious now, I can't believe I never thought of it. The two folding chairs are now folded up in my closet, and there is a TON more space. Love it!
also, if that drying rack if for clothes (I assume) you could hang a retractable line somewhere and possibly cut out the need for a drying rack that takes up so much space.
We're in a highrise apartment, so unfortunately not really feasible - we could only make a very small one on the balcony, but we hang dry all the laundry for two people including sheets and towels, so I don't think we'd have enough space. We also need to be able to dry things even if it's raining out, which is frequent in Vancouver winters!
-
also, if you put that cat on a diet you'd free up a little space! (just kidding....kinda) ;-)
Darnit! I was going to make the same joke :)
I agree that chairs should serve dual purposes. And agree also about a toilet cabinet and general shelving. I would put floating or hanging shelves all over and try to minimize things on other surfaces. I'm also a big fan of back of the door hangers, like on the bathroom door you can have one of those hanging toiletry organizers. In the closet you can have one for scarves, hats, socks, belts, whatever. Use any vertical space. I love a pot rack hanging from the kitchen ceiling although it looks like you have pretty decent cabinet space. If counter space is tight hang a fruit basket and you can keep other things in it besides fruit. I'd also replace the mirror over the kitchen sink with a small shelf for your cookbooks to free up that other bookshelf for other things.
Find a spot to put away things like the folded chairs, drying rack and ironing board when not in use and the place will feel bigger. If there is no room you can hang all those things from hooks on the wall like people do with bikes. And hang the mirror up on a wall! :)
It looks like you have an eating table + two desks. Do you both work at home at the same time a lot or can you eliminate one desk? Can the person who uses the laptop just work on the dinner table? When I transitioned to using just a laptop full time I felt liberated from having to have a real desk at home. If you're neat with your files (you can use a portable file holder if you really need paper around) you can work from anywhere pretty easily. Definitely get rid of the TV and free up that whole corner with no more TV or the furniture that it's on. You can watch shows and play games on your computers.
Lastly, hanging lamps and sconces don't take up any floor space.
I don't remember if you said this was a rental. Maybe some of these would be hard to do but you can always put things back the way they were.
-
It's a nice apartment, and you look as though you are doing OK in there. You must have done a very good job on the downsizing.
Do you need the stool in the bathroom? Can't you put the seat down on the loo and sit on that? A wall cupboard at the back of the loo is a very good idea from mxt. Then put some narrow rails/hooks above where the stool is to hang your towels on.
I like all the cupboard space in the kitchen. But you have a lot of open shelving elsewhere, so all your things are on display and it makes the place look more cluttered than it really is. If you are not the sort of person who likes to keep things beautifully displayed, try hanging an interesting length of cloth over the front of shelves you do not want on display - it will instantly look less cluttered/more decorated. (This does work better on things you are not accessing several times a day, though.)
Do you need two wall clocks and three mirrors? (If you need a full-length view of an outfit to check it, take a picture on your camera phone and look at that.)
Is there room in one of the closets for the hoover, mop, etc? At the back of the loo?
-
I second the suggestion to hang the mirror. Could you perhaps move the calendar around the corner to the wall in the kitchen? Or move the clock over the cupboard doors, move the calendar up and then hang the mirror under the calendar perhaps. If there is room to do so without blocking the door to the balcony I'd also suggest putting a couple of nails into the wall (just above where the mop and brush are in the kitchen) and hanging the mop and brush - I do this and I find although it doesn't really save any space it does make the place look less cluttered. Same for the drying rack - just put a couple of nails into the wall a bit above where it is now. You only save about an inch of floorspace at the bottom of the wall but it looks much neater.
It's kind of hard to tell in the photos but it looks like the bed doesn't come out that far so that the wall opposite the bed could be used for a slimline unit of some kind. And of course shelves on the wall above the PC unit and TV. BUT, don't start adding lots of shelves and other units unless you actually already have a lot of stuff you need to find space for!
I think I'd definitely hang a curtain in front of the shelving beside the bed, too. And yeah, if you got rid of the telly, you could move the rocking chair into that corner. I think I'd also move the book shelves and the table and chairs a couple of inches to the right so that I could store the hoover inbetween the bookshelves and the butchers block (I have two of the same ones, by the way, so handy and I have used them in a couple of different places over the years).
-
Do you need the stool in the bathroom?
I'm pretty sure that is a litter box:)
I like everyone else's suggestions, and i really have to second the comments about clutter. You don't have a ton of stuff, but it just seems to be everywhere. Part of the problem is that you obviously have very little closet space (no place for the vacuum or brooms). I would look for something like this: http://www.ikea.com/us/en/catalog/products/90260814/
Its not huge and over powering, but big enough to be a mini broom closet or something. Put your microwave or printer on top.
Main thing, get some stuff out of the visual field. Or out all together. http://www.theminimalists.com/
-
Do you need the stool in the bathroom?
I'm pretty sure that is a litter box:)
oops. Sorry.
-
Getting rid of your cat would give you lots of space! Dang that is a big cat!
-
I just moved out of 325 sq feet ( with a 6'4'' husband no less...). Here are my suggestions if that were our apartment.
I would get rid of the desk. If that TV is flat screen, I would wall mount it and get rid of the tv stand. If you get rid of those two things, you gain a lot of space. From there you could put a ton of shelves up on that wall, working around the tv. And with baskets and boxes could store all sorts of things you don't want to stare at. These are good examples ( http://tammytylermoore.files.wordpress.com/2009/11/elfa-shelves11.jpg, http://media-cache-ec0.pinimg.com/736x/27/79/40/277940dba0e1c95c316c1ecec4c36404.jpg , http://media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/736x/dd/c1/e3/ddc1e309c437cb355e95af755e73089f.jpg). Home depot sells shelving systems like that and you can completely design it to fit your needs. We stored a LOT of stuff on a single wall of those. They sell some wide enough that you could put the desktop computer on it.
Another idea would be to create a fake closet on that wall using curtains ( either the full length of the wall or maybe just in that angled corner). These are some ideas ( http://media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/736x/6a/93/c8/6a93c802da32bb52ce63be6dfd2ffb40.jpg , http://www.pearldrummersforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=418760&stc=1&d=1324018061 , http://uni-wall.com/images/2012/12/8/white-living-room-sofas-in-2012-ikea-living-room-design-ideas-for-small-spaces-and-trendy-colours-uni-wall.jpg ) . This would give you a place to store things you don't want to see like the kitty litter, and a vertical space for the broom and mop.
We also had a drop leaf table like that ( the nordgren or something from Ikea) but we kept out chairs on hooks on the wall to free up space when they weren't in use ( because we had no real closet space).
I don't think you have that much stuff, but it all seems out in the open which makes the apartment feel smaller. I'd try to keep only books and knick knacks out for viewing. I'd also probably hang a curtain on the shelving next to the bed, but that's just cause I don't like visual clutter! Out of sight out of mind :)
-
General comment - the transition from kitchen to living area is not clear, I think I am seeing the microwave in the LR and something swathed in fabric in the kitchen.
The laptop and little desk - if you were to hook your laptop up to your TV (HDMI cable), and use a wireless mouse and keyboard so you can sit where you normally sit for the TV, you would have a better monitor and one less "thing" taking up space.
I agree with others, you have a lot of visual clutter (especially in the bathroom), which makes your living area seem smaller. I know, I am equally guilty. As others have suggested, little tweaks in storage practices would make a huge difference in the "feel" of your place.
Is that your microwave on the second shelf of the shelves? If yes, it seems low. For comfortable and safe use, I would move it to the top of your little butcher block table that is beside the shelf - what is the fabric-covered boxy thing on there now? If you don't use it, why keep it? For the record, I love my microwave and use it all the time, but I don't have a toaster, a kettle or a toaster oven. Others could not live without them. So it is a very individual thing. Also, there is a clock on the stove, so why have that big round clock on a place where it looks like it could be knocked off. Again, the clock is visual clutter, and not needed.
Does your apartment have a storage locker someplace? If it is reasonably convenient, is there anything in the apartment that you don't use that often that could go into storage (at the front, so you can get it easily)?
When my sister gutted her kitchen, everything went into another room. When the kitchen was finished, she did not bring anything back in until she needed it. After a few weeks, there were still kitchen things in the other room - she obviously rarely used them, so sorted, some went into storage (things like Christmas baking) and some went out. Can you do something like this? You know, turn hangers backwards and see if the clothes get worn, put things some place hard to get and see if you bother to use them.
Your cat loves you - it obviously follows you around, to have ended up in so many pictures. But its litter box is taking up your only free floor space in the bathroom - is it tidy re litter? Could you put that someplace else (like where the laptop is now, but disguised), where it would not be as visible but still easy for the cat to get to? Putting it on a larger rubber boot tray would make it easy to keep the floor clean if the litter ends up tracked out a bit. If you moved the laptop but left the desk, you could put the kitty litter box under the desk, and use the desk for a "landing stage" so things coming in or out have a temporary home. Before I set up a landing stage at my front door, everything just went on the floor as I came in.
I think I am going to go and look at my own cluttered living area (ouch, definitely worse than yours) and implement my own ideas.
-
With so much cabinet space, I would ditch the small cart in the kitchen and move everything into the cabinets since the cart doesn't actually have much on it. I assume that's a bread machine sitting on top. I'd stow that on top of the fridge (depending on it's weight) and then take it down whenever I actually use it (once a week?) In the cabinets on top of the fridge, I would only put things that rarely get used, like holiday or seasonal items. You could also put the bread machine in that space below the microwave. Get a magnetic knife strip for over the stove, or maybe install something so you can store your spices on the wall space there instead. Put the trash under the sink, or get a smaller trash can to put under the sink if your current one is too big to fit.
Make sure you're actually using everything in your cabinets. You can store non-kitchen items in that space, if you aren't already. Some people store dishes in their oven, but it looks like you use it regularly so that's probably more hassle than it's worth.
I don't own an ironing board. When I need to iron fabric, I just put a towel down on the table. So feel free to ditch the small green ironing board, since you don't actually have a place to store it.
Does the cat actually use the scratching post? If not, ditch it. There's also wall mounted ones you can buy/make. I made one that hangs on a door knob/wall hook, but I'd probably just make a wall mounted next time.
PS I love that your cat just managed to get in half your pictures.
-
I've always wondered why bunk beds aren't popular for adults in apartments. Would be a great way to free up a ton of storage or home office/desk space underneath . . .
-
A thought for how to use that space; you could fill 2 plastic tote tubs with stuff and then stack them between your bed and closet and it could function as a night stand, if you want it to look nicer, you could throw a tablecloth over it.
There are no nightstands in my home. we have filing cabinets as our nightstands. Try to think of dual uses for large pieces of furnitre.
First, gorgeous space! Those windows are killer! I'd like to plus one the idea of bins as a night stand. I've done this myself in the past though now I use my file cabinet as a night stand. In my small studio - just about the same size as yours but not as awesome a window situation, I need to keep clutter to a minimum for my sanity. Storing away (in bins) or getting rid of all the little stuff really helps me appreciate the space and the furniture I've chosen for it.
I would also invest in desks that aren't so open and/or try to eliminate some of the tech clutter and/or find a single large long table or desk to share. Either a side by side or across from each other set up might work. If you can't hide the issue, play it up. http://www.acme-re.com/2012/03/desk-for-two/
Lastly, that rack of kitchen stuff creeping out of that big beautiful kitchen into the living room is bugging me a little. (RetiredAt63's suggestion to pull everything out is a great idea.) You've got some wasted space in the 1.5 feet of counter top next to the oven. Perhaps you can move the toaster oven to that spot and put the microwave where the toaster oven is sitting? (You might have an extra outlet behind the electric range.) If you're able to reorganize the kitchen and eliminate that rack you could then mount two hooks on that bit of wall and hang your folding chairs when not in use. Ikea shows this idea quite a lot (again the issue of not trying to make a small space something it's not and celebrating the quirks.) http://dishondesigngal.com/tag/folding-chairs/
-
also, if you put that cat on a diet you'd free up a little space! (just kidding....kinda) ;-)
And yes, that's a heck of a big cat! (But fat cats are happy cats.) :-)
-
Unfortunately, there is no storage locker - I'd have a lot of stuff in it if there were! Even just an extra closet would be lovely. Oh well...
The "stool" is, indeed, a litter box! Unfortunately, Anthony is a bit of a messy thing and it's really important to keep it in the bathroom where we can easily clean up. We will definitely look into getting additional shelves and cupboards into the bathroom though.
I use the bread machine at least every two days for normal bread, and also for things like pizza dough and flatbread dough, so it needs to be readily accessible! The fabric covering it is my "loaf protector" for when I have a loaf of bread rising (I only use the machine to mix and knead, then transfer it to a loaf pan and use my oven to bake it). When it eventually quits, I plan to replace it with some sort of Kitchenaid or similar mixer, which would also replace a few other things and be pretty ornamental!
Anthony uses his scratching post a lot, so I'm hesitant to ditch it. I think he might be... uh... too heavy for a wall mounted one. I can just see it now... purrrr purrr CRASH!
I wouldn't want to put cook books above the sink for fear of getting them wet, but two apartments ago I had several above-sink shelves and found it extremely useful!
I started work last night on moving things into my excess kitchen cabinet space, rearranged some closet things, stowed away the folding chairs, and got rid of a few things. I'll keep working on it tonight and post some "progress" pictures at some point.
I think a trip to Ikea is in order. Or Craigslist.
-
I think a trip to Ikea is in order. Or Craigslist.
In this case, I recommend Ikea. With Craigslist, you'd be adapting your space to the items that are available; with Ikea, you're getting exactly what you need for your specific space.
I agree with all the folks who recommend utilizing vertical space. The Billy bookshelves at Ikea are very tall, but not very wide. You can choose as many as you need for your purposes.
We have been slowly shedding books and knick-knacks. If it's out on display, it's really special. Otherwise, it gets lost in a sea of other, not-so-special things.
-
also, if you put that cat on a diet you'd free up a little space! (just kidding....kinda) ;-)
And yes, that's a heck of a big cat! (But fat cats are happy cats.) :-)
there's no such thing as a happy cat
-
On another note, any local Vancouver Mustachians with a drill and some free time want to help me install things once I get them? Will pay in pie!
-
There are some great personalized suggestions for you here but I would also suggest that you might like to check out Apartment Therapy and Design Sponge websites. There is some amazing small space advice and great DIY suggestions on both. Also I like Ikea Hackers. There are some extremely creative thinkers on all these sites.
-
I agree with all the comments about visual clutter - it makes your space feel much smaller. Maybe try weeding out some of your clothes and other stuff you have in your closets to create a little bit of room for the vacuum, broom/mop, ironing board and drying rack? They shouldn't need much space, maybe a foot altogether?
Google Project 333 - that should help with your clothes.
Also, check these out: a minimalist couple with 2 kids shows what they have in their 1 bedroom apartment.
http://lovingsimpleliving.com/2012/07/minimalist-living-what-we-own/
http://lovingsimpleliving.com/2013/01/what-we-own-minimalist-living/
-
also, if you put that cat on a diet you'd free up a little space! (just kidding....kinda) ;-)
And yes, that's a heck of a big cat! (But fat cats are happy cats.) :-)
there's no such thing as a happy cat
My cat seems super happy when he is knocking things off the table.
On another note, any local Vancouver Mustachians with a drill and some free time want to help me install things once I get them? Will pay in pie!
I wish I were closer, pie sounds like a great way to pay.
-
Last night I was watching "Tiny House" videos on YouTube -- I wonder if you could glean some helpful suggestions from there? One fellow had magnetic bars on the ceiling that he used to hold jars with metal lids (the little ikea ones).
Also, we e have drying racks in our laundry room from IKEA that hang on the wall and then fold down when not in use. They are fantastic!
We don't live in a tiny house -- big family :-)
Edited for typo
-
Lots of good suggestions. We just moved into a 450 square foot space so we're working with some of the same issues.
You have lots of "little" furniture crammed around the margins of your room. I might consider:
1. Mount the TV on the Wall.
2. Place a loveseat and small coffee table in front of the TV. If possible look for a Table with a surface that "lifts up" so it can double as a desk. Also use your loveseat/coffee table for dining. Get rid of the the dining room table.
3. Organize your shelf space better. Put linens in the closet, use the bookshelves near the murphy bed for actual books, nicely organized. If an appliance doesn't fit in your kitchen, get rid of it. Try to keep all your kitchen supplies in the kitchen proper.
4. For your "offices" either plug your laptops into the TV screen and use a wireless keyboard, or share a single desk as a "drop station" where you can plop your laptops down and work. Your space is too small for two full desks.
Here is some inspiration:
http://www.apartmenttherapy.com/5-smart-studio-apartment-layou-92329
http://www.walmart.com/ip/Mainstays-Lift-Top-Coffee-Table-Espresso/25151160
Show us the after photos! :)
SIS
-
I downsized from a 3 bed/2 bath home to a 1 bedroom apartment. What i learned is you have to go up to maximize space. Meaning you need to put stuff on shelves and use your wall space.
Also I think you could do another purging of "stuff". My problem was getting rid of sentimental items that took up space. What I did was take a picture of the item and created a ShutterFly book with all the sentimental stuff along with the story behind it. So I still have the item but it is no longer occupying space.
You also still have a lot of furniture for a smaller apartment. I counted 5 chairs. That is a lot of chairs.
-
Is there space between the top of the door in the bathroom and the ceiling to install a shelf for linens?
-
I agree with other posters, you don't have a lot of stuff but the way it is scattered, etc doesn't not give a peaceful feeling. I would inventory everything you have and how you use it, and get an open and closed storage that goes up to the ceiling to fit on one wall; basically try to consolidate as much stuff as possible in one area, so you can enjoy the rest of the openness. Move the micro to the kitchen. Rocking chair unless heirloom or more comfortable than it looks, would lose it.
-
I couldn't put anything above the bathroom door - there's only a couple inches of space. My plan for the bathroom right now is to replace the shelf above the toilet with a small wall-mounted cabinet, and get some sort of vertical/hanging storage on the wall above the litter box, and get some sort of towel ring to have a hand towel next to the sink.
I'll also be looking for one of those double desks to combine our work spaces.
My boyfriend and I were talking about how we used to share a closet two apartments ago - if I can get rid of a bunch of my clothes, I bet we could go back to that, and have the entire second closet just for storage. Sounds like a weekend project!
The rocking chair is critical - I've had it since I was 13, and moved it all over Canada. Absolutely love it and would not want to get rid of it.
-
It looks as if the floorplan is not exact to your apartment unit. There seems to be more wall space next to the closet than the photos show. So I'm not sure if my suggestions will actually work/fit in your apartment.
1. Consider moving the murphy bed over closer to the windows. When it's up, it's not in the way and when it's down, it appears you will still have enough room to get to the kitchen if needed (but who needs to in the middle of the night?)
2. Move both desks over to the side of the room away from the windows.
3. Pull out those closet shelves and hang higher. Buy another rack from home depot (about $15 for that size and install a second hanging rack. If you don't use hanging space, then install additional shelves above the existing shelf and use them.
4. Use every piece of vertical space you have -- hang everything. My rule is that nothing without proper fee (tables/chairs) is allowed to touch the floor. Hang everything else on the wall. Pick a wall for ugly stuff, and just treat it like a garage/mudroom and hang your hanging rack and everything else there. BTW, why do you need a broom if you have a vacuum? And your kitchen floor is small enough to use a rag and your knees -- I'd get rid of the mop. They just move dirt around anyway and they're filled with bacteria.
5. The space behind your murphy bed should be used. Find a pretty poster and hang it there!
6. Do you have a child that visits regularly? The toys on top of the murphy bed are great candidates for putting in bins or bags and shoving on the top shelf of a closet. Plush toys get very dusty when left out.
7. Furniture can "float" in a room to bring stuff away from walls/free up room for more hanging things. If there's room, you could reorient the desk so that the short side is against the wall, put a pretty sheet or a poster across the back to hide clutter, then push the other small desk against the back of the larger desk. So your sort of facing each other, but the poster/sheet provides privacy.
8. Hang everything; build UP; avoid single-use appliances.
9. Anyplace you have a bulkhead/soffit in the ceiling, I'd extend the look of it by building a shelf where it ends. Wrap the entire apartment in an above-head-height shelf if needed, just keep everything up there uniform and tidy.
-
I can't move the murphy bed - it's a rental building and built in. Due to it being a rental, I'm also a bit hesitant to do any big construction projects, though shelves should be no problem!
Good idea on getting rid of the mop. I have it because our last apartment was a lot bigger, but it's really not necessary any more.
I think I'll be doing another big purge when I get home from work.
-
Lots more good suggestions.
Re linens (mentioned above) - how many do you need? Vancouver is not Eastern Canada in terms of weather - I have one summer set and one winter set of sheets per bed, but you could do with just one set. Again, how many towels does each of you need? Unless things take forever to dry, I find one set of sheets and one set of towels per user is enough - wash, dry, reuse. That takes care of a lot of storage space that is no longer needed. (Of course when people have kids that rule goes out the window, kids have accidents, kids get sick, I can remember one horrible night when my DD went through 3 sets of sheets - threw up on all of them.)
Seriously think of getting rid of the kitchen clock, since with the stove you don't need it. Use that space for something more useful - a spice rack, knives on pieces of magnetic strip, whatever.
Shelves - Billy shelves from Ikea can have doors - doors make a space look more organized and less cluttered. They also make you put things on the shelves more carefully, since if things are just tossed on and stick out, the doors may not close.
-
An update: Got rid of a bunch of stuff, including enough of my clothes that we can now share a closet, and use the second one purely for storage. Like a bunch of people suggested, I moved the bread machine to the kitchen counter and got the cart out of the kitchen.
Still a work in progress - I have a few things I need to buy when I get a chance, need to look into how to mount a TV on a wall, and I haven't decided what I want to do with the section that has my boyfriend's computer desk and gaming center. I also haven't decided where to put the lamps or Anthony's scratching post yet.
I stuck a painting in the bathroom to make it look prettier as well.
Here are some updated pictures: http://imgur.com/a/CvkHu (http://imgur.com/a/CvkHu)
-
Great progress! Your place looks so much bigger and lighter! If I were you, I would get rid of the TV and the lamps completely and figure out what lighting you actually need with the new set up. Maybe a table top lamp on the table? A wall mounted light over the desk? Is there any type of a ceiling fixture? I couldn't tell from the pictures.
-
Another thought: it looks like you need some space to hang coats, bags and backpacks and store shoes. Could you put some coat hooks on the wall in the hallway?
Something like this http://www.ikea.com/ca/en/catalog/products/60099791/ with a shoe rack underneath like this http://www.amazon.com/Honey-Can-Do-SHO-01600-Bamboo-2-Tier-Shelf/dp/B00302KB4K/ref=pd_rhf_se_s_cp_5_Q6BJ?ie=UTF8&refRID=0G3WPASVJA0SMXSMY7B6?
Or if you don't have enough space for the shelf then just hooks like this (this would be an easy DIY project too) http://www.amazon.com/Liberty-128738-Four-18-inch-Wooden/dp/B0033AHK6Q/ref=lp_3744281_1_11?s=storageorganization&ie=UTF8&qid=1408796667&sr=1-11
-
Definitely an improvement already. Your cat is better than my dog - if I had food and water bowls in the living room, there would be wet and messy floors. That is why my dog eats and drinks in the kitchen.
Bathroom - so much better with no kitty litter and stuff hanging out. Are you still planning more shelving above the toilet? The picture is nice - small rooms need something to help the aesthetics.
Living room lamps - they look out of place with the rest of the room, and they probably only light areas very close to them. Have you thought of replacing them with floor lamps that direct light or arch? I had this one (http://www.canadiantire.ca/en/pdp/2-head-torchiere-lamp-0525070p.html#.U_kMY2ObD78 (http://www.canadiantire.ca/en/pdp/2-head-torchiere-lamp-0525070p.html#.U_kMY2ObD78)) in an apartment and it worked very well without taking up much space. Ikea has a bunch.
This is extremely a case of personal taste - I find fabric "curtains" hiding things on shelves almost as cluttery as the clutter, unless the fabric is very discrete. The orange fabric under the TV grabs attention.
Kitchen - clock moved, microwave at a better height (means the bread maker is also in a better spot). Sometimes it isn't how much stuff you have, it is just where you put it. I would have plants on the kitchen and/or living room window ledge, but then no matter where I live, I have indoor plants even though I have an outdoor garden. These days there are inexpensive Phalaenopsis orchids that bloom for long periods of time, take definite effort to hurt, and look so much more elegant than the old house plants like African violets. I know, now I am talking"decorating", but one healthy house plant adds a lot to a room.
It is only 3 PM in Vancouver right now - what will your place look like by evening tomorrow? Someplace that Peter Walsh could point to and say "Nothing for me to do here"?
-
A few people have mentioned indoor plants - unfortunately, that won't work, because Anthony will NOT leave them lone! Sometimes people give me something and I have to smile, grit my teeth, say thank you, and watch it get destroyed over the next 3 days. It doesn't matter where I put them, or how hard I try to "protect" them. I do hope to get an outdoor balcony garden going next spring though!
-
I apologize if this was already suggested.
One of the biggest improvements to my small and horribly laid out apartment was replacing the traditional closet rod and shelf with an actual system. I've typically used Rubbermaid closet systems in both places that I've installed them. They really utilize the space you have well by making it so you are more organized and are using the closet from top to bottom.
Plus they're not too expensive and lowes or Home Depot usually have the customizable pieces so you don't have to buy the whole system; instead you'd buy what works best for you.
-
Cats and plants - sigh.
How agile is he? Lee Valley has this (http://www.leevalley.com/US/garden/page.aspx?p=44711&cat=2,44713,40759 (http://www.leevalley.com/US/garden/page.aspx?p=44711&cat=2,44713,40759)) which follows the small space rule of "go vertical" and might let a plant be safe.
Traditional closets are really inefficient, as Latwell pointed out. Ikea and other places have all sorts of secondary fixes (apartment, I know, it means you can't do anything major). Sorting out the function of each closet is a big help in figuring out what you really want to store in it, and from there you can reconfigure it. Plus closets have doors - once the door is shut, the room looks tidier and more open.
Alternatively, closets can turn into wonderful mini-offices - open the door, there is the office, close the door, and it is gone.
-
On another note, any local Vancouver Mustachians with a drill and some free time want to help me install things once I get them? Will pay in pie!
I might be handy enough to earn some pie. Home improvements for space use are a bit of a hobby, but I haven't tried to make 400 square feet work.
I agree on the TV/monitor ideas. To free up space in our place we ditched the computer desk and just plugged the computer into the TV (wall-mounted and swivels 180 degrees). With a wireless keyboard and mouse in their own slot in the bookshelf (Billy!), the kitchen table becomes the desk in no time.
-
I didnt read the whole thread, so someone probably mentioned it:
To the question of where to store things, if not in a shelf:
You could make "Book Cubes". That are basically wooden cubes with place for 2 rows of books, (in the middle is wood to strengthen the structure, front and back is 1/4 high to get books in or out, advanced woodworkers can make something like sliding doors) depending on book size 1 book or 2 books high. Carve out holes in the side to carry arround.
You can place them wherever you want, even let guests sit on them (cushion). You can also paint them individually if your like it ;) Store them horizontally, vertically, make a structure out of them... and if they are in the way, just put them on another spot. Several together can even be used as a table.
"Old fashion" would be to put shelfes on the top part of the wall for books and other selddom used things to free your shelves to store the things you put on your furniture.
-
Reading through this thread, our 850 sq ft. condo suddenly seems CAVERNOUS....
Some great tips here that we could actually put into action...
-
An update: Got rid of a bunch of stuff, including enough of my clothes that we can now share a closet, and use the second one purely for storage. Like a bunch of people suggested, I moved the bread machine to the kitchen counter and got the cart out of the kitchen.
Still a work in progress - I have a few things I need to buy when I get a chance, need to look into how to mount a TV on a wall, and I haven't decided what I want to do with the section that has my boyfriend's computer desk and gaming center. I also haven't decided where to put the lamps or Anthony's scratching post yet.
I stuck a painting in the bathroom to make it look prettier as well.
Here are some updated pictures: http://imgur.com/a/CvkHu (http://imgur.com/a/CvkHu)
Bravo! Nice work on the closet. And I'm still insanely jealous of your windows! That being said, pushing most of your furniture/lamps up against them is detracting from the killer view. I second (or third or fourth) the idea of getting the tv up on the wall and then moving a lamps and scratching post.
That expanse of wall between your murphy bed and your windows would be a great spot to run a side-by-side double desk. Parsons tables (http://www.target.com/p/ameriwood-industries-parsons-desk-black/-/A-13357938?ref=tgt_adv_XSG10001&AFID=google_pla_df&LNM=13357938&CPNG=Furniture&kpid=13357938&LID=30pgs&ci_src=17588969&ci_sku=13357938&kpid=13357938&gclid=Cj0KEQjwveufBRDlsNb3kb-twMIBEiQASNH0xiFUqJBRkVDEP-cJ2YVTPL3GfZYDm9uOikI0m6yyphsaAj6z8P8HAQ) side by side are great, narrow option that isn't crazy expensive. You could then center and mount the tv on the wall above them to use as a secondary monitor for the computer systems.
-
When I had a Murphy bed I mounted fruit crates on the bottom to store extra pillows and blankets, and it looked pretty cool when it was upright. The more weathered the crate looks the better.
-
I've been bemoaning my small no-bedroom apartment, and yearning for more space. But I'm just one person. I'm impressed you two are managing to live in a small place.
And the improvements look nice!
Now that I've found MMM and am plotting more savings, I'm starting to think I should stay in my little abode till FIRE (in maybe five years) and focus on making fold-away bed and desk, hanging TV, and so on.
Thanks for the inspiration!
-
Love the changes you've made. The painting in the bathroom is lovely.
Consider what you can do with one of those standing lamps.
For such a small apartment I love the large windows. The view looks really nice.
You did say that you managed to purge a bunch of clothing.
Always be on the lookout for items that you can donate/sell/give away that
you aren't using any longer. Also Ebay for the lighter items...you wouldn't believe the stuff people are willing to buy.
Less is more. Even some of the cook books where you only use a few recipes?
-
Another update: I got rid of the computer desk and got a long table for that wall instead that will eventually be a double desk. We replaced the TV with a much smaller and lighter one which is on the new table for now, but will be getting wall mounted when I find someone to help me with that. The shelf that the old TV was on is now outside on the balcony to hold supplies for my upcoming gardening and composting project, so that corner is free now.
I'll post another set of pictures when I get the TV up - that should be the last thing to do for now.
-
Another Ikea tip: at least in the NYC store, they have model small apartment setups in their browsing floor, and that can be a good place to look for inspiration.
-
I'm mostly commenting to follow as we're living in an apartment that's feeling cramped and cluttered (embarrassingly much larger), but I do have some ideas for you too!
I do want to add that your bathroom looks so much more spacious now! I'd actually caution against putting a cabinet above the toilet because it'll just make the small space feel closed in (and the painting is nice). IMO, the medicine cabinet (looks like you have one?) and under sink storage should be plenty of room for all of the bathroom necessities. I know how easy it is to end up with extra unnecessary stuff in a bathroom. Maybe consider doing a declutter of that lotion you hate, etc.
Also, do you need a toaster oven? A regular toaster has a much smaller footprint and you already have an oven in your range... I would think that if you didn't have the toaster oven, you could put the microwave where the toaster oven currently resides and put a small toaster on your 'main' counter space. Then you could get rid of the kitchen cart completely ad it is now cluttering up your living room.
One last thing, you mentioned getting an Kitchen Aid in the future for making dough? I would look into finding a working used model from like the 80s or earlier. All the parts are essentially the same, but the newer models don't seem to hold up to making dough repeatedly over time. Another bonus, the mixer would have a smaller foot print than your current bread machine and free up some more counter space.
I agree about the bathroom, I changed my mind about getting a second cabinet - I like that painting there now (fun story - I got that painting for free about 8 years ago when I worked for a junk removal company. Someone literally paid me to take it away!), and I found other homes for the other stuff.
We definitely need the toaster oven - we actually got rid of our toaster because the oven is so superior. It makes better toast, is great for heating up things like a slice of pie or pizza that you want to stay crisp, and is way better energy-wise for small batch baking and cooking (like a dozen cookies, half dozen muffins, or a few vegetarian chicken strips). We don't actually pay for electricity, but it's always good to be lower impact. We use it multiple times a day for a huge variety of things.
I'll definitely look into getting an older Kitchenaid when the time comes. I've heard bad things about newer mixers and bread dough.
-
I'm not sure if you have a "too much odds and ends stuff" problem that requires a thinning exercise or an "all I have are these shelves left over from my dorm room" problem that requires some storage options that don't result in visual stacks of stuff stuck in every nook. Everything just looks cluttered--papers sticking out here, clothes sticking out there, stuff stacked up, piled up...If I walked into your place for coffee, I would feel awkward because it looks like you didn't expect me to come.
1) On paper, define your spaces. If you're sharing spaces for multiple purposes, define the space separately as you would want it if it just served each purpose. Merge them until they blend together or can be switched easily. Second-hand furniture is inexpensive and can meet your needs and look great if you have a plan that fits your space.
2) Adopt a cleaner look everywhere--90+% of what I see cluttering your pictures shouldn't be visible to casual guests coming over for dinner, even if everything I'm seeing are items that you desperately need. Drawers/bins/storage containers are your friends. This container on this shelf holds household items like office/computer supplies. That really cool crate holds games, magazines, and books and serves as your coffee table. This chest will seat one or two people and holds five pairs of shoes. That second-hand wardrobe is actually a coat/umbrella closet on the right side (living room side) and a cleaning supply closet on the left (kitchen side)...and so on. In our home every drawer/cabinet/storage unit holds similarly-purposed items. If friends come for dinner, they see an organized office, an inviting living room, and a welcome kitchen. If an item makes the room look better and fits your decor, then leave it out. If it's strictly utilitarian and/or adds nothing to your decor, then it should be put away. Anything that doesn't add to the visual appeal of the room weakens the appeal.
Make a space/decor plan (1) and adopt a decorating philosophy (2), and you should be well on your way. The details will follow. Specific ideas can be found by the thousands via Google.
-
Here's the latest set of update pictures: http://imgur.com/a/jyu0B (http://imgur.com/a/jyu0B)
I left out the kitchen and bathroom since nothing's changed there (well, I moved Anthony's scratching post into the kitchen, but that's it).
Still to do: Get the TV mounted up on the wall to turn the table into a double desk, plus hang a few more things up on the walls.
-
The oversized cat-themed area rug is a nice touch.
Personally, I think toaster ovens are one of the greatest inventions out there! Your place looks much, much more tidy and organized now. Keep us posted :)
-
Here's the latest set of update pictures: http://imgur.com/a/jyu0B (http://imgur.com/a/jyu0B)
I left out the kitchen and bathroom since nothing's changed there (well, I moved Anthony's scratching post into the kitchen, but that's it).
Still to do: Get the TV mounted up on the wall to turn the table into a double desk, plus hang a few more things up on the walls.
Wow! Big improvement. (I'm mostly replying to say d'awwww kitty! so cute)
-
Here's the latest set of update pictures: http://imgur.com/a/jyu0B (http://imgur.com/a/jyu0B)
I left out the kitchen and bathroom since nothing's changed there (well, I moved Anthony's scratching post into the kitchen, but that's it).
Still to do: Get the TV mounted up on the wall to turn the table into a double desk, plus hang a few more things up on the walls.
This doesnt look like the same room! I especially like the table under the window and access to kitchen now. It looks great.? MIL worthy.
-
Such a cute kitty.:)
-
Huge improvement. However, I agree with others who have said get things out of sight - things like pillows and hand vacs should not be in plain view. Look at how nice the back of the Murphy bed looks, and then look at the shelf beside it - immediate sense of overwhelm, too much different stuff all "shoved on" the shelves.
I bet the kitty loves all that open floor space for play.
I should add that you are being an inspiration, I am looking at my own space with fresh eyes, and decluttering and reorganizing.
-
Your giant cat genuinely delights me! :-) He's got that "king of the castle" sort of look. ;-)
-
Everything is looking really awesome. And I love the "I own this, all of this" picture of the cat.
-
What a difference! That new desk area really makes the space look less cluttered. Sometimes extra shelves aren't helpful! You're doing really great with such a small space. If you're still looking for suggestions, I'd just like to point out that you have lots of kitchen cupboards, so maybe some of the things are that are out in the open (tidy on shelves) could be jammed in there.
-
Sponge Bob in all his variations needs to go. If you are old enough to have your own apartment and your own boyfriend, you are old enough to get rid of all stuffed toys. Besides, his sarcastic face is competing with the cat. And the cat is cool.
-
Sponge Bob in all his variations needs to go. If you are old enough to have your own apartment and your own boyfriend, you are old enough to get rid of all stuffed toys. Besides, his sarcastic face is competing with the cat. And the cat is cool.
Not happening :)
-
http://imgur.com/a/gljfT (http://imgur.com/a/gljfT)
This is probably the final set of photos.
Finally got the TV mounted on the wall, but it was a different wall than originally planned. The one behind the computers had stuff behind it that shouldn't be drilled into apparently. You can see it in the first picture, taken from right inside the front door above the shoe rack. It's actually very convenient since we don't have a couch, because it's right by the foot of the bed when it's down - video games in bed, yay!
I decided to start keeping my sewing machine out so I mend things when I need to rather than months later. It fit nicely behind my laptop.
Finally, I shuffled things around in the spare closet to accommodate my ugly bulk stuff - toilet paper and cat litter are now out of sight!
It's really nice having a table for my laptop now. Standing wasn't much fun before.
And that's about it for now!
-
This looks really great, Zikoris! I can't believe how your tiny living space actually looks like tons of space for two people. Very minimalist!
-
What a cute place! I love all the things you have done so far. I've looked at all the photos and made a list. Please read it in a gentle, matter-of-fact tone, because I do not want it to sound harsh and suspect it will. Not my intent, I assure you. In no particular order:
In the kitchen...
K-Put a 4" wide shelf all the way across the span above the stove. Put cooking utensils, etc. there.
K-Ditch the mirror above the sink and put a 6" wide shelf there for rice cooker and similar. 8" might work, but you don't want to hit your head.
K-Invert the yellow thing and store it in the white thing sitting on the cake stand. Turn the handles on the white thing so it sits closer to the wall. Better still, hang a high shelf in the soffit above the refrigerator cabinets and put that stuff up there, if you can't part with it. You may need a step stool to access it, so get one that folds flat. Hang it on the wall next to the balcony door. Bye-bye to what looks like a manila envelope.
K- Do you really need a toaster oven and a microwave? I'd buy a two-slice toaster, move the micro to the counter and get rid of the micro stand.
K- Spoon Rack? Whaaa? At least move it into the kitchen above the bread machine. And put that scary knife back wherever it was before.
K - Put cooking oil and soap away. When I lived in a tiny place, I used a small soap bottle (from an extended stay hotel) and kept it and a sponge in one of those racks you suction cup to the inside of the sink. Handy and off the counter.
On to the living room...
LR- Push dining chairs flat against the wall when not in use. Let the rocking chair be the star.
LR- Stand facing the desk. Slowly slide the right hand table out and put all those electronics on the floor. Carefully slide table back into place. Put printer on table.
LR- Hats on lamps are fire hazard. Floor lamps are trip hazard. Get something wall mounted, possibly swing arm and definitely LED from Ikea and put above either end of desk. Or even on the desk, now that the printer is gone.
LR- Buy an inexpensive matchstick-type or Roman shade and attach to Murphy bed to hide the shelves. Use Command hangers so you don't harm the unit.
LR- Move the barbells to the floor underneath storage shelves. Too heavy.
LR- Get rid of mirror, clock and papers on closet. If you need a bulletin board, there are cute Command clip-ons that you can attach to the left side of the bed, towards the office set-up. The cell phone trick to check your look in the bathroom mirror is golden. If you must keep a clock (NO!!!), hang it over the desk, but since your stove, computer and phones all function as time keeping devices, it really is redundant.
LR- I second the idea to put something pretty on the wall behind the MB, so you can see it when the bed is down.
LR- If you're going to be there a long time, I'd consider replacing the desk chair with something more streamlined. CL (or equivalent) is your friend. Extra points if it could double as an extra dining chair.
Next, the bathroom...
BR- Not much to add but this, in my mother's voice, "Put that damn lid down!" Besides looking more attractive, it will give you another place to sit. As to additional storage, don't buy one of those monstrosities that sits on the floor and goes above and around the toilet. A few shelves or a small cabinet are better options. I like the picture.
BR - That kitty litter! Tuck it in the corner behind the toilet and hide it with the trash can. Ikea has some small, rectangular, covered trash cans that will tuck in nicely, and only cost a few bucks.
Finally, get some of those neat-o Command coat hooks and stick 'em on the back of the front door. Keeps your coats handy and out of the main living space.
Some of this stuff you can do right away and will cost you nothing. Others will take a little measuring, planning and a few loonies. Don't forget that you can buy pre-fab shelving at the big box stores and they will cut it to exact size for a very reasonable fee. Ordinarily, I am no fan of Ikea, but they are a valuable resource when outfitting a tiny home. And no, I don't work for 3M, but that Command stuff is better than post-it notes. Ikea and Target usually have a good selection. I can't think of a shoe solution yet, so I'll just have to let that one go for now...
And the FU bag? Love it!