How to Maximize Space in a Small House

Your house may be small, but that doesn’t mean it has to feel that way. If you want to make the most of your square footage, Thompson Creek sliding doors and windows can be a great way to let in plenty of natural light and create the illusion of more space. If you want to learn how to maximize space in a small house, these ideas can make even the tiniest home feel downright spacious.

Increase Your Window-to-Wall Ratio

In a small space, it can feel as if the walls are closing in on you. By increasing your window-to-wall ratio, you can stop feeling that way. Well-placed windows, especially if they’re offset by decorative mirrors, can fool the eye into thinking a room is bigger than it really is. There are several great ways to achieve this illusion:

Create a wall of windows: Floor-to-ceiling windows can flood a room with natural light, highlight outdoor scenery, and draw your eye outward, reducing that small-house feeling. It’s a great option for homes in scenic locations, letting you take full advantage of a great view.
Install garden windows: Garden windows are three-dimensional windows that extend out from your house, providing shelf space for knickknacks or room for a small indoor garden. Garden windows add usable space to your home, plus they let in more daylight so your house feels airy and bright. Although they’re ideal for kitchens, they can also create an interesting focal point in small bedrooms or dens.

Wrap windows around walls: Create the illusion of more space by wrapping windows around two or more walls. This less-costly alternative to a full wall of windows can serve as a beautiful focal point in a corner room or extension, especially if the surrounding area is scenic. By installing windows across multiple walls, you also draw the eye to what’s outside, making the space feel larger than it is.

Merge Indoor and Outdoor Living Space

French doors always look classy in a master bedroom or great room, but they also provide easy access to outdoor spaces, making exterior areas more usable. In mild weather, decks, patios, and porches can be used for entertaining, relaxation, or even workspace, effectively increasing the functional square footage of your home.

If you’re thinking about how to maximize space in a small house but don’t want French doors, sliding doors can also help you merge your home’s indoor and outdoor areas. For a true indoor/outdoor experience, choose doors that retract fully, letting family members and guests move freely between the two spaces. 

Use Sliding Doors on Interior Walls

In most homes, sliding glass doors offer access to patios, porches, or backyards, but that doesn’t have to be their only function. If you’re looking to maximize a small space, consider using glass doors to set off semi private spaces such as in-home offices, dens, and wardrobes.

Sliding doors save space since they don’t swing open, and unlike traditional interior doors, they create a flow of light between rooms. For parents or pet owners, they can also create a division of space that lets you set boundaries, while still promoting line of sight.