Tiny Ideas Big Impact

I’ve been fascinated with tiny homes for the past few years. TV shows like Tiny House, Big Living make it look like an adventure even a Hobby Lobby décor collector like myself could take on. As it turns out, my mother in law, Michelle, lives in her very own tiny home. When I saw it for the first time, it was nothing like the tiny homes I had seen on TV. There were no pull down stairs, hinged ceiling storage or hidden drawers in the walls. While those features save on space and add a certain amount of pizzazz to tiny homes, I realized they might not be practical for everyone wanting to build a tiny home.

This edition of TRIO will cover some budget-friendly ways to organize a tiny home. You don’t have to be a custom carpenter to get the most of your tiny space.

Every Nook and Cranny

Michelle is a big fan of nesting bowls and stacking pots and pans. This might seem small, but literally every square inch counts, so stack what you can! Kitchen cabinet shelf racks and baskets are also a simple yet highly effective option. Often times, it doubles the space available. Have fun with organizing the cabinets and drawers, there are tons of materials and colors to choose from!

Leave no Space Untouched

The name of the game with tiny spaces is to look behind, above and below every place to find more space. A simple way to gain storage is to install shelves above doors. This works to store towels, items you may use infrequently, or to display décor you just can’t let go of. Look up to find more storage or displays in common spaces or bedrooms as well. You just might find a place to put shoes or a unique bookshelf. The unused vertical space in a home will be your new best friend for storage solutions. Still need more space? Try opening the doors. Hooks, hanging organizers and rods mounted on the backs of doors can provide endless storage solutions.

The Unavoidable

When I asked Michelle about key things to remember when going tiny, she emphasized the importance of priorities. Downsizing doesn’t mean you have to purge everything, it just means you have to figure out what means the most and get rid of the excess. Michelle explained how important her kitchen and closet were to her. This meant a small TV and an average-sized bed. You can’t have it all, but that doesn’t mean you can’t keep what matters to you. It might just call for a creative solution.

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If you would like to learn the ins and outs of tiny living, sign up for our Tiny Homes: What to Know class on September 29. You will learn everything you need to know to build or purchase your own tiny home. To register call 405.377.3333. To find out about more courses like this, sign up for our monthly e-newsletter. View all upcoming courses in our digital catalog.