Downsizing or moving to a smaller home is a great idea for someone who wants to reduce living expenses or lead a simple life. Moving to a smaller house does not mean one has to sacrifice comfort. One can make the most of the available area and create a cozy interior using compact furniture, minimalist design elements, and smart home appliances. First-time movers can explore some practical downsizing tips for a smooth transition.
Declutter Thoughtfully Before Downsizing
The first and most critical downsizing tip for homeowners is to take only valuable possessions to the new house. One must identify things with sentimental value, such as ancestral items, favorite furniture pieces, old photographs, and daily-use items. One can let go of anything that does not hold value or won’t fit into the new space, such as excess clothing and large, bulky objects. Selling such belongings while downsizing can generate money that can be used for moving or setting up a new home. Alternatively, unwanted items that still have utility can be donated to someone who requires them.
Organize Things That Need to Be Moved
Organizing things that need to be taken to the downsized home is a great way to ensure a smooth transition. One should use high-quality packing materials, like sturdy boxes, to protect their belongings during transit. Bubble wrap offers more protection for fragile items, whereas packing paper is ideal for wrapping general belongings and filling air gaps in boxes. Once packed, the boxes should be secured and sealed with packing tape to stay closed during transit. Labeling the boxes is also a good idea as it makes it easier to identify and unbox in sequence at the new home.
Measure Furniture Before Placement
Placing large furniture in a home without taking measurements can make the space look cramped. Without measurements, the furniture may have to be moved around the home several times to find the ideal spot, which can be daunting. Furthermore, if a piece does not fit well, it may need to be replaced, adding to unnecessary expenses. So, before unboxing things, one should measure the new space first. Mapping out the floor’s dimensions will create a clearer picture of what can go where.
Use Premium Materials Only
Investing in high-quality interiors is key for homeowners to downsize without losing comfort. This way, the home will feel luxurious even after the move. Custom cabinetry, marble benchtops, and European oak floors can help elevate the home’s design. One can also get premium furniture that blends style with functionality. Such furniture can create a statement and make even the smallest spaces seem uncluttered.
Plan In-built Storage
A smaller home may be unable to accommodate all daily utility items, like vacuum cleaners, brooms, cutlery, and entertainment devices in various rooms. That’s why one will need to switch to efficient storage solutions. For example, custom-built chairs have seating atop but a hollow midsection to keep raw materials for cooking or bathroom essentials. Other space-saving solutions include customizing beds with concealed storage inside.
Pick Open-floor Layouts
Layout is crucial, especially if the home is small. Open layouts improve the reach of natural light and create the illusion of a larger area. They also help accommodate multi-functional furniture pieces, like Ottomans or extended dining tables that help maintain the home’s overall look without compromising on the space.
Use Smart Home Technology
Using smart home technology is another useful downsizing idea to enhance comfort. One can dedicate some interior design funds to smart home features like automated lighting, smart climate control, and modern security systems. Even a voice-controlled assistant to turn on and off systems can go well with a small apartment. The ease of access makes living in a home premium, even if it’s smaller than before.
Opt for a Compact but Functional Kitchen
Another tip for moving into a smaller home comfortably is to optimize the kitchen space with compact appliances. For instance, high-end appliances like beverage fridges, induction cooktops, and integrated appliances can serve all the required functions while taking up minimal space. They can also give the kitchen a modern look.
Take a Minimalist Approach
The next downsizing tip for all homeowners, including seniors, is to try minimalistic living. This involves choosing to own fewer possessions and leading a simple life. One can keep back things that reflect one’s personality, such as family photos, travel souvenirs, or a musical instrument. A limited number of items can keep the home from feeling too overwhelming, especially when homeowners move from a bigger to a smaller space.
Make the Most of Vertical Space
Another tip for moving into a smaller home without downsizing lifestyle is to maximize storage and aesthetics with vertical storage. Floating shelves for books or other decor, for example, will help personalize an area of the new home. Wall hooks for bags or coats are practical additions for daily-use items. Installing hooks in the kitchen will help hang pots and pans, so they never get in the way.