Making the Most of Your Efficiency: Smart Space Usage

No matter what your decorating style may be, staying organized and decorating tastefully don’t have to be difficult when you’re living in an efficiency. Efficiencies are designed for maximum functionality, and often require a creative use of space. If you have the liberty of living in an efficiency apartment, you’ll soon discover unique and creative ways to dress it up, create incredibly organized spaces, and choose function over form in almost every selection.

Efficiency and studio apartments are usually one or one-and-a-half room equivalents of regular apartments. They are designed for the single person who needs minimal room and storage, and is most conducive to students, young professionals, or jetsetters who don’t spend much time at home. The advantages of efficiency living is the minimal cost; the ‘downsized’ apartment is perfect for a back-to-the-basics perspective. The kitchen is small, geared to fit one person, and usually includes a stove, sink and refrigerator. Add one living space room that is easily converted into a sleeping area, and you’re set. Closets will likely be one or two, and the bathroom will be set off to one side.

Making the most out of your efficiency lifestyle is possible. With the right decorating techniques, you can transform a small space into almost twice its size. Use the following pointers and strategies to set you on your way to supremely functional, but comfortable, living:

âÂ?¢ Make use of closet organizing tools and drawers; you’ll benefit most from hanging styles that can be attached to walls and fold out. Think of a virtual ‘pop-up’ closet for all of your clothes hanging, and make the most out of one wall

âÂ?¢ Use mirrors for dÃ?©cor and you’ll instantly maximize the room’s ‘feel’ of space. Mirrors create the feeling of distance, and can be a stylish enhancement to any wall space

� Opt for a foldaway bed that can be turned into a sofa or chaise-style seating arrangement. This will be the best way to turn your sleeping area into an instant living room or relaxing space. Alternatively, take advantage of roll-out beds that fold up into the wall; these are ideal for converting your space instantly.

� Use foam cubes or ottomans as both decorative pieces, and side tables. Since these are usually fairly light, they can be moved around the room with ease and serve as a multi-functional piece of furniture.

âÂ?¢ Change around the focal point of the room, dressing up only one wall or the window area at a time. This will create a ‘center’ for your room, and changing things around often will keep things fresh.

âÂ?¢ Make a sketch of the floor plan and ‘designate’ space for different functions. For example, one area can be a study area, another a relaxing area, and another an eating area. Since you have very minimal space to work with, it will help create a feeling of movement and space even within just a few feet.

� Interestingly enough, large, bold furniture and accessories coordinate better in a small space than small and plentiful accessories. Choose wisely, and take into consideration the most functional pieces and necessities.

� Use a rug for a cozy effect for the entire room/space; bold and vibrant colors will draw attention to the floor area, while light and soft blends will help add texture to the floor but draw attention upward.

âÂ?¢ Make use of ceiling decorations such as a tapestry, wall hanging or other adornment. This will again draw attention upward, creating a feeling of ‘flow’ in the room.

� Make use of storage containers and compartment boxes for food items, minimizing your need to store excessive amounts of different ingredients. Cooking ahead helps, as does making one-pot dishes using a crockpot or casserole dish.

� Take advantage of fold-away chairs, bean bags, and papasan-style seats that can be used for storing other items.

There are many ways to be creative and cultivate both an aesthetically appealing, and functional space for your efficiency. Remember that functionality and efficiency are a top priority whether it’s in the kitchen, bathroom, or living space. Choose your furniture and dÃ?©cor selectively; keep in mind your options for multi-functionality, as well as bold and bright color combinations. ‘Decluttering’ any area will instantly give you a peaceful and clean setting, so it’s best to avoid too many different styles and textures. You’re well on your way to functional living with these key tips, so enjoy your living space to it’s maximum potential!