Downsizing

Mon, Apr 5th, 2021 @ 12:36pm

Can you really pack in a lot of living in a small space?
Decide what features are most important to you. Know where you’re willing to be flexible and where you are not. Knowing what your minimum square footage or bedroom count is will only be helpful while downsizing your belongings.
Even though the buzz over Marie Kondo’s books has died down a bit, there is still a lot of room to talk about purging, clearing out and getting the excess out of our lives. Particularly if you are planning a move. It’s one thing to pack, but a whole new adventure to let go. There is always that little voice that doesn’t help. The one that says, “What if I need it someday?” The key here is “Someday.” Will that day ever come and do you have to hold on to something indefinitely, just in case. Easy answer is usually “No.” And if you really do need another (fill in the blank) you can generally find one, cheaper, newer, nicer or better OR discover you don’t need to replace it afterall!

That said, if you are moving into a smaller space, here’s a checklist to help you get started:

Measure, measure. Match the size of your space to the furniture you’re bringing/buying.

Consider multi-functional pieces. An ottoman with a top that opens for storage is great. A coffee table that has shelves or drawers comes in handy as well. Free-standing open shelves are also excellent storage options. Beds with draws offer a great advantage for storing linens or off-season clothing.

Cull your books, magazines and knickknacks. If you can’t part with them, get some smaller bins you can store in a closet and rotate them.

Look through magazines or decorating sites and picture how you’d like your new place to look.