The size of your house is restricted by the land area it occupies. Therefore, it is sensible to consider how to make the most of the available space if you are building from scratch. Luckily, most self-builds are able to be larger than houses built by developers. Using timber internally also increases the space you have to work with, as walls are thinner than masonry ones. There are lots of ideas and techniques to create an illusion of extra space.

Utilise your space

Many of us have an empty space beneath the staircase, so why not think of an imaginative way to make use of it? A lot of people are now utilising this area as storage, with custom-built cupboards and storage drawers. Depending on what you plan to put away in this area can determine how you construct it. For example, if you intend to store blankets, towels and bedsheets, you may want to consider adding pull out shelves for easier access. It’s also a fantastic way to store everyone’s shoes and trainers!

Contrary to popular belief, a room that is furnished with furniture will actually appear larger than one without any furniture. Instead of taking out furniture to give the illusion of more space, leave it in place to achieve a more open atmosphere. Be aware not to add too much furniture that it becomes difficult to move around in the home. Make sure to find a good equilibrium!

Get creative

If you have a basement, you possess a tremendous storage space. Renovating the basement can make your property a profitable venture since it increases its worth and appeal to potential purchasers. If you have a cellar, these can also be used, although some tend to be a lot smaller than a basement, you can still utilise the space to your advantage.

Combining two rooms that are divided by a single wall, like a kitchen and a living room, can make a huge impact. Not only will it appear to be more expansive, but you can also be more creative with furniture positioning. It can be difficult to find the right spot for furniture when there isn’t enough room, but with a larger area, you can figure out the best place for it. It may feel daunting and will require an investment, but it’s less expensive than moving and it can increase the worth of the property.

Make most of every room

It is astonishing to see the amount of idle space in the average home. Consider every little corner as a chance to include some well-planned storage. A window seat with cupboards beneath, a bed with space underneath, cupboards fitted around a sink. If you have a loft, this is also an incredible space to either convert to another room, or simply for storage. If you have a trussed roof loft, it is easy to adapt these into storage shelves.

To make your living space feel more roomy and illuminated, natural light is the best solution. Large windows, especially those positioned at a higher level, can be very effective. Floor-to-ceiling windows can create a huge difference in the ambiance of your home without the need for any renovation. If you position your windows correctly, it will appear as if the space has been doubled. Placing mirrors in your home, allows the natural light to bounce around the room, creating the sense of space.

Have a self-build house project? Planning a self-build home project? Need design services, timber design and supply or professional advice? Contact Maple Timber Frame, specialists in all aspects of domestic and commercial timber frame construction in the UK. We work with clients across the UK including Cheshire, Cumbria, Essex, Greater Manchester , Hampshire, Kent, Lancashire, London, Merseyside, Midlands, Norfolk, Sussex, Wales and Yorkshire. Contact us for a free brochure or more information.