If you’re downsizing, it can be a daunting task to move everything into a smaller living area. After being used to lots of space for so long, you might not see many benefits of downsizing.
The thought of having to get rid of nostalgic belongings can be difficult too, especially if you’re moving out of a family home.
Downsizing your living area doesn’t have to be a headache though, as there are ways you can make the most of your new, smaller living space. Here is how to get the most out of the space you have.
Why You Should Downsize?
As you’ve got older, it may have become apparent that you don’t need as much space as you used to. Mobility could also be an issue for some as climbing the stairs several times a day could become troublesome. So, considering a move to a smaller property starts to look like a sensible option.
If you’re struggling financially, downsizing could also be a way to save some money, and even give you some equity, so the inconvenience of a smaller space could be worthwhile.
Get Rid of Clutter
Right at the start of the downsizing process, you’ll need to move past the initial emotion of getting rid of belongings. Holding onto nostalgia will just make it more difficult for you to give up some of your items and will make decluttering a long and emotionally draining task.
You may feel like you are being brutal with yourself, but in the end, it will make downsizing to a smaller living area much easier. The last thing you want is to take clutter from one place to another, smaller place.
Separate your belongings into different categories like:
- Keep/Store
- Sell
- Donate
- Trash
This will help you to know exactly how much you’ll be taking into your new living space.
Try your hardest not to keep things just because you like them. Remember, you’ll be in a new place with a new layout, so decide if the item is vital or not.
Local storage solutions usually exist for those must-keep items, if you really can’t bring yourself to part with some nostalgic belongings.
How to Make Your New Space Feel Bigger
The first step toward making your new living area feel bigger than it is will be making sure it’s decorated and furnished in a way that complements its size.
Choose a light color palette, and make sure as much natural light is getting into the room as possible. Big, bulky curtains will darken the room and block some window space, for example.
Hanging a large mirror is a great way to trick your brain into thinking a living space is larger than it really is.
Keep furnishings to a minimum if you can, try not to have more than you need, and multipurpose furniture like sofa-beds are a great way to save space but keep functionality.
Downsizing Living Area Doesn’t Have to be Hard
If you put the planning and preparation into downsizing living area, it really doesn’t have to be the mammoth task that you might have thought.
So, while it can be an emotional time, it doesn’t need to be a stressful one.
For information on assisted living and a number of other topics relating to housing as you get older, check out the blog or get in touch to discuss your options.
