Living Large In Less Space

By: Sierra Dahlke

Many people worry that downsizing means sacrificing their comfort or cherished belongings. In reality, downsizing can make room for what you cherish most. It makes living spaces functional, low-maintenance, and peaceful. It all comes down to… A smart design!

Here are some tips and tricks to elevate the space you have.

1. Choose Furniture That Works Twice As Hard

When looking for functional furniture, make sure that every piece has a purpose. Ideally, more than one! The goal is to downsize, not store items you’ll never touch. Some examples include:

• Storage ottomans

• Dining tables with expandable leaves

• Nesting stools

• Beds with built-in drawers

• Fold-away desks

• Hall tree

2. Design Rooms to Be Multipurpose

Oftentimes, when a client is downsizing, a significant decrease in square footage can be discouraging. However, designing the space to serve more than one function makes a world of difference. Incorporating functional furniture into the mix creates even more possibilities! For instance, you may have a:

• Guest Room + Craft Room

• Office + Reading Nook

• Dining Room + Puzzle or Game Area

• Living Room + Exercise Space

• Hidden Home Office + Closet

3. Organizing The Small Space Available

Small spaces hold more when sorted. An organized space not only elevates the look, but also the feel of a home. The process of organizing also assists you in knowing what you have, where it is, and where it fits. Here are three rooms with organizers and tips often utilized in the space:

     Kitchen

• Utilize vertical storage

• Add pull-out cabinet organizers.

• Insert drawer dividers

• Limit duplicate kitchen tools

• Use clear containers for pantry storage

       Closet

• Use slim hangers

• Rotate seasonal clothing 

• Add shelf dividers

• Sort with bins and baskets

• Install door storage

      Bathroom

• Add drawer organizers

• Purchase over-the-door storage

• Organize medicine cabinets

• Utilize baskets for everyday essentials

• Keep countertops cleared off 

4. Digitally Organizing

When we think of downsizing, the first thing that comes to mind is often physical possessions. It’s also important to remember the digital aspect! Although it can be intimidating, digitizing paperwork can be a massive tool in an efficient downsize. Here’s how:

• Scan important documents

• Organize digital files into folders

• Back up family photos

• Create digital albums to preserve memories

• Secure shred paperwork that’s no longer needed

5. Upkeep Over Starting From Scratch

Whether you’re downsizing or just organizing, the multitude of things to go through can be overwhelming. Do not fear! Regular maintenance can drastically decrease your workload over a more manageable period of time. It also keeps things in order once you’ve done all the hard work! Here are some suggestions:

• Work in 15-minute daily resets

• Set goals: for example, tackle one room or category a week

• Fill a seasonal donation box

• Complete an annual paperwork review

• Utilize the one-in, two-out rule

Conclusion: Bigger Isn’t Always Better

A smaller home doesn’t have to feel limiting. Intentional organization can create so many possibilities for your space! Just remember, the goal isn’t to fit everything into a smaller space; it’s to make room for what matters most.

At Smart Moves, we've helped countless Wisconsin families transition into homes that better support the next stage of life. Whether you're just beginning to think about downsizing or preparing for an upcoming move, our team is here to guide you with compassion, practical solutions, and years of experience. Contact us to learn how we can help make your move and your new space feel like home.