According to a study by the National Association of Home Builders, the average American home has increased by about 1,000 square feet over the past 40 years. Yet, in that same period, the average number of people per household decreased from 3.1 to 2.6.
It means that even though our homes are getting bigger, we’re using less of that space. And a lot of what we are using is for storage.
Your home is your castle, and you want it to be as functional as possible. Whether you’re trying to make the most of a small space or simply looking for ways to declutter and organize your home, there are plenty of ways to make your home more functional. Here are some of the best ways to make your home more functional:
1. Get organized.
One of the best ways to make your home more functional is to get organized. Declutter your home and get rid of things you don’t need. It will not only make your home more valuable, but it will also make it more stylish and inviting.
For instance, try installing mailboxes in your entryway to sort through mail as soon as you enter the door. You can easily find a USPS approved locking mailbox that will help you keep your mail organized and secure. In addition, it will be a great way to keep track of bills and essential documents.
2. Create a functional layout.
Another way to make your home more functional is to create a functional layout. It means considering how you use each room and what furniture and fixtures best suit your needs. For instance, if you have a small kitchen, you may consider installing a floating shelf to store spices and other cooking essentials. However, if you have a large kitchen, you may consider a kitchen island that can provide extra prep space and storage.
3. Invest in multi-purpose furniture.
Adding storage is one of the best ways to make your home more functional. It can be as simple as adding an extra shelf in the closet or as complex as adding a custom storage system. But one of the easiest ways to add storage is to invest in multi-purpose furniture. Also known as dual-purpose or all-in-one furniture, these pieces serve multiple functions. For instance, a coffee table with built-in storage can be ideal for storing books, magazines, blankets, and other household items. Or an ottoman with built-in storage can be used as a coffee table, end table, or footrest.
4. Install smart technology.
One of the latest trends in home design is to install smart technology. These are devices that you can control with your smartphone or tablet. For instance, you can install a smart thermostat that will allow you to control your home’s temperature from anywhere. You can also install smart lighting that your smartphone or tablet can control. These are just a few examples of how you can make your home more functional with smart technology.
5. Add mirrors.
Another way to make your home more functional is to add mirrors. Mirrors can help make a room look bigger and brighter. They can also reflect light, making a room feel more spacious. In addition, mirrors can create the illusion of more windows. For instance, you can place a mirror opposite a window to reflect the light and make the room feel brighter.
6. Use paint to your advantage.
Paint can be a great way to make your home more functional. For instance, you can use paint to brighten up a dark room. You can also use paint to make a small room look bigger. And you can use paint to create the illusion of more space. For instance, you can paint the wall opposite a window a lighter color to reflect light and make the room feel brighter.
7. Let in natural light.
Natural light is one of the best ways to make your home more functional. It can help a room feel brighter and more spacious. In addition, natural light can help you save on energy costs. So, if you want to make your home more functional, let in as much natural light as possible.
8. Add plants.
Plants can also help make your home more functional. Not only do they add life and color to a room, but they can also help purify the air. In addition, plants can help reduce stress and promote relaxation. So, add some plants to make your home more functional. Also, consider adding a water feature, such as a fountain or an aquarium. Not only will it add to the aesthetics of your home, but it can also help promote a sense of calm.
9. Keep it clean.
One of the best ways to make your home more functional is to keep it clean. A clean and clutter-free home will feel more spacious and inviting. In addition, a clean home will be easier to navigate and live in. So, be sure to declutter regularly and keep your home clean if you want to make it more functional.
Bottom Line
There are many ways to make your home more functional. Some of the best ways to do this include adding storage, installing smart technology, adding mirrors, using paint to your advantage, letting in natural light, adding plants, and keeping it clean. So, if you want to make your home more functional, try some of these tips.
