[imagesource: Getty]

We all spend more time indoors these days, thanks to both the pandemic and this appalling weather.

I’d like the sun back now, please.

There’s only so much Netflix you can watch before the eyes begin to wander to the space around the TV, and then to the rest of the room, forcing you to take stock of the dimensions, which, if you aren’t flush with cash, probably aren’t that impressive.

More and more people are living in smaller spaces, which tells us a lot about the price of property these days (a shoebox in London, anyone?), and registered psychologists and medical professionals agree to a large extent that decluttering and reorganising a space, no matter how big or small, is good for the mind and can significantly decrease anxiety. 

Add some tricks for making your space appear bigger and you’re on your way to not feeling like the walls are closing in.

Here are six of those tricks to get you started, from those who know a fair bit on the topic.

Double Duty

Choose furniture with multiple functions such as a side table that doubles up as seating or a couch with hidden storage.

Reflective Surfaces

This is an old trick, but it works. While you shouldn’t tile an entire wall with mirrors (people who visit will have too many questions that they’re afraid to ask), choosing accent pieces with a reflective surface, like a glass coffee table or a reflective sideboard, can contribute to the illusion of space.

Declutter

This should be obvious, but more than a few people have trouble letting go of their rubbish. It then accumulates on shelves, above cupboards, and on tables making your space look cramped.

Deal with this by clearing out the items you no longer need and putting the stuff that you may need later into storage.

Start with the glass jars – there are always too many glass jars.

Bold Art

Add some drama to your space by introducing a gallery of eye-catching works. Choose larger artworks to create a statement or a selection of symmetrical prints in a hallway. This will add volume and a point of interest to a room.

Even better, collect a seasonal range that you can swap out when you need a change of scenery. When the art isn’t in use, store it away, ready to liven up the place when you’re bored of what you have on the walls.

Add Space

Ask any decor expert and they’ll tell you that pushing a couch up against a wall is a guaranteed way to make your space look weird. Leave gaps between furniture to give the illusion of space.

Store The Useless Stuff

If you have items that you simply cannot part with, art that needs a place to live until you need it again, or furniture that fit perfectly in your old place, but it now dominates the room, look into affordable, tailored self-storage options.

While the rest of the tasks listed above are all going to take time and effort (sorry), this last step is by far the easiest.

Stor-Age is offering 2OV readers 50% off their first month’s rent. 

Check out their location list to find an affordable, safe option closest to you.

Then check out their Instagram account.

In these tough times, Stor-Age has been creating awareness and getting the word out there about local businesses and initiatives.

If you’d like your business, non-profit, or relief organisation to be part of the ‘Local Business Spotlight’ project, email Rob Baird at rob.baird@stor-age.co.za.