Architect reveals how to "expand" space for small houses
A small house does not mean living in cramped conditions. Architects Charles Bettes - Managing Director of Gpad London Ltd, and Julian Prieto - Design Director and CEO of Edge2 Properties Ltd, suggest ways to optimize space to make the house look bigger.
The general rule is to maximize storage space. Understairs, roofs or excess corners can all be used as storage. Charles Bettes shared: "Before arranging, consider how to use space and storage needs. Good planning helps small houses remain airy and comfortable.
Tips for bedroom, bathroom and kitchen
In the bedroom, a high wardrobe close to the ceiling combined with a smart bed with drawers helps maximize vertical space. Choosing a narrower but higher wardrobe helps eliminate excess space above the wardrobe. In addition, large artworks also create visual illusions, making the room look wider.
Small bathrooms should use cabinets under the sink and corner shelves, avoid cabinets hanging on the sink causing a cramped feeling. Small toilet bowls, sinks and sliding doors help maximize floor area, creating a feeling of ventilation.
For the kitchen, open shelves on the cooking surface help the kitchen not be suffocating, and making high cabinets close to the ceiling using space above also eliminates waste. Julian Prieto emphasized: "Planning height and arranging utensils makes the kitchen space neat while still convenient.
Using light tones in sync between walls, cabinets and furniture helps reflect natural light, creating a more spacious feeling. No need to choose white, light blue, light gray or light pink tones all bring similar effects.
