🏡 10 Small "Space Hacks" That Make Life Bigger

Issue #12

Hey Friendz,

Living in a small space doesn’t mean you have to feel cramped or cluttered.

In fact…

The secret? Smart design choices that help you maximize space, minimize stress, and create a home that feels big—no matter its size.

Today, we’re sharing 10 of our favorite small space living hacks that work especially well for tiny homes, vans, cabins, and off-grid getaways.

But first, here is…

Start by tackling one area that constantly frustrates you—maybe it's your entryway, your kitchen drawers, or that one cabinet you always avoid. Fixing just one "pain point" can create a huge sense of relief and give you momentum to keep going. And, if you are not in a tiny home yet, this still works. Small win, big ripple effect.

If you’re done thinking about living sustainably, off-grid in a tiny home and your ready to step into a more peaceful way of life, we’re ready to invite you to come live in The Rio Grande Estates Tiny Home Community here in The Land of Enchantment, New Mexico. We offer studio, 1 and 2 bedroom container homes. Click HERE to learn more and apply.

📦 1. Use Your Walls for Storage
Shelves, hooks, baskets, and pegboards can turn empty walls into high-function zones. It draws the eye upward and frees up valuable counter and floor space.

🛋️ 2. Pick Multi-Functional Furniture
Think ottomans with hidden storage, beds with drawers, or drop-leaf tables. Every item should do double-duty—especially in a tiny home.

🚪 3. Swap Traditional Doors for Sliding Ones
Pocket doors or barn doors save space and create better flow. Plus, they add a rustic or modern aesthetic that feels intentional.

🪞 4. Hang Mirrors to Reflect Light
Mirrors make rooms feel bigger and brighter. Place one across from a window to double the daylight and open up the space visually.

🍽️ 5. Keep Counters Clear with Wall Racks
Install a utensil bar, spice rack, or mug hooks to keep things off the counter and within easy reach. It reduces visual clutter and increases function.

🧺 6. Use Clear Bins Inside Cabinets
Being able to see what you have prevents overbuying and mess. Labeling helps too. This is especially helpful in pantries, under sinks, or tiny bathrooms.

🪑 7. Fold It Up When You're Done
Folding chairs, collapsible drying racks, or stow-away desks are lifesavers in small spaces. Use them when you need them, hide them when you don’t.

💡 8. Layer Your Lighting
Good lighting makes everything feel bigger. Use warm-toned LED strips under cabinets, along shelves, or behind mirrors for that cozy yet open vibe.

🎭 9. Use Curtains to Divide Space
Curtains offer privacy and zoning without building walls. Great for bedroom nooks, storage areas, or “room dividers” in one-room setups.

🧤 10. Create a Drop Zone at the Door
A small bench, some hooks, and a basket can make your entryway feel organized—no more dumping bags, shoes, and coats all over the floor.

Designing a small space is less about square footage—and more about intentional choices. When you take control of your space, you also start to free your mind.

Every item you release gives you more room for what matters: peace, creativity, and connection.

Living small isn’t a downgrade—it’s an upgrade in freedom.

Here’s to expanding your choices,

We want to know, what did you like? What didn’t you like? What would you like. We want to make this publication so valuable to you, you never want to leave.

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