Bringing up children in a small home or apartment can be difficult, but with some planning and creativity, urban families can thrive. Today, we will provide tips on maximising space, storage solutions, and ideas for giving children their own areas. With compromise and organisation, raising children in compact surroundings is very doable.
Making The Most Of Limited Space
When living in close quarters with little ones, it’s essential to utilise every inch. Start by taking an inventory of your current storage and seeing what can be pared down or repurposed. Be ruthless about getting rid of unused items, bulky furniture, and clutter.
Invest in multi-functional pieces that serve several needs. For example, ottoman coffee tables with lift-up lids allow discreet storage of toys, books, etc. Sofa beds in living areas create extra sleeping space for guests while taking up minimal room. Look for furniture that can be folded up or stowed away to free up floor space when needed.
Strategic layouts help delineate room purposes and activities. Place a rug and armchairs in one corner of the lounge to create a cosy reading nook. Use room dividers or curtains to separate sleeping and play zones. Hang wall-mounted tables, shelves, and cabinets to utilise vertical space.
Make use of outdoor areas by weatherproofing balconies and patios for extra play and living areas. Outdoor toys, furniture, and storage can help maximise external space.
Creative Storage Solutions
Tidy storage is a must for small homes. Labels, containers, baskets, and hooks keep belongings organised. Install shelving in closets, alcoves, and along walls to hold books, toys, clothes, etc.
For shared bedrooms, give each child their own set of drawers or cubbies. Under-bed storage houses bulky items like spare bedding and sports equipment. Dressers can double as toy boxes or work desks.
In common areas, attractive woven baskets corral items like blankets and board games. Mounted rails and hooks allow coats, bags, and bikes to be stored up and out of the way.
Repurposing household objects creates handy storage. Turn a vintage suitcase into a toy chest. Use an over-the-door shoe organiser to hold art supplies. Stash toys in vintage trunks or under bench seats with lift-up lids.
Splitting Up Bedrooms
Giving each child their own bedroom, even a small one, provides an invaluable retreat. If the space allows, consider partitioning or dividing rooms. This is especially important for families who are considering fostering. Families who want to foster with agencies like Clifford House Fostering face strict criteria about bedroom spaces. Creating an extra room helps meet requirements.
Thankfully, splitting rooms isn’t as difficult as it sounds. A stud wall can separate a large room into two smaller ones. However, take care not to reduce natural light and ventilation too much. Try to give each space at least one window. Add individual bedside lamps if needed. Use room colours, themes, furniture and accessories to define individual spaces.
Urban living with children has its challenges. However, with innovative use of space and some adjustments, families can make small houses and apartments work. The key is staying organised, multi-functional and making areas adaptable. Most importantly, approach small space living with flexibility, compromise and a sense of adventure.
