- American homes are some of the largest in the world, but not all houses match that average size.
- Poor organization, clutter, lack of multifunctional furniture, and poor layout can contribute to a feeling of inadequate space.
- Increasing natural light and investing in storage solutions can help to create more room.
- Home renovations such as adding a garage, converting the basement, or building a loft conversion can significantly increase the space in your home.
Do you constantly find yourself wishing for more space in your home? Feeling like you don’t have enough room for storage or living space can be frustrating. However, the space issue often lies deeper than what meets the eye. Here’s what you need to know about the space of American homes, why you don’t have enough space, and home renovations you should make to increase the space in your home.
The Size of American Homes
American homes are some of the largest in the world. According to the US Census Bureau, the average size of a single-family home in America was 2,263 square feet. This number has more than doubled over the past 50 years, as the average size of a single-family home in 1973 was just 1,660 square feet. However, not all homes are this size, which can lead to a lack of space for some families. Here are some common reasons why that happens.
Poor Organization
Poor organization is one of the main reasons you may feel like your home lacks space. When items are not correctly arranged or stored, they take up more space than they need. It’s essential to make sure that items are sorted into categories and stored in an organized manner. Investing in storage solutions such as shelves and closet organizers can also help to create more room in your home.
Clutter
Another common issue that can contribute to a lack of space is clutter. Too many items in your home can make it feel cramped and overwhelming. To combat this, it’s essential to regularly declutter and eliminate items that are no longer needed or used. Hosting a garage sale or donating items to charity can also help to clear space and make your home feel more open and airy.
Lack of Multifunctional Furniture
Having furniture that serves multiple purposes can be highly beneficial in homes with limited space. Investing in pieces like a sofa bed or a coffee table with hidden storage can help save space and add functionality to your home. Additionally, opting for furniture that can easily be folded and stored away when not in use can help to create more room when needed.
Poor Layout
Sometimes the layout of a space can contribute to a feeling of a lack of space. Narrow walkways, too much furniture, or large rugs can make a room feel cramped and closed off. Redesigning your area or simply rearranging your furniture can help maximize your space and open up the room.
Lack of Natural Light
Natural light can go a long way in making a space feel roomier and more open. It can also contribute to your overall productivity at home. If your home has minimal natural lighting, it can contribute to a feeling of a lack of space. To combat this, consider adding more windows or skylights or investing in light fixtures that mimic natural sunlight. Additionally, adding mirrors to your space can help to reflect light and make the room feel larger.
Home Renovations to Increase Your Home’s Space
If you want to increase the space in your home, a few home renovations can help. Consider these upgrades to get more living and storage space:
Get a Garage
Some homes in the U.S. don’t have a garage, making it difficult to store items you don’t need in the house. Investing in a prefabricated or custom-built garage can be an excellent way to create extra storage space and protect your vehicles from the elements. Additionally, you’ll need to get a robust garage door installed. Contact a local garage door installation service to help you out. They can choose the right garage door and install it for you.
Add an Extension to Your Home
You can consider adding an extension if your property has ample outdoor space. Building an extension can significantly increase your home’s overall square footage. You can opt for a single-story extension, which is cheaper and easier to construct. Alternatively, you can build a two-story extension to double your available living space. An extension can also enhance your home’s appearance and add value to your property.
Convert your Basement
If you have a basement used as storage or a laundry room, you can consider converting it into a livable space. You can turn it into a home theater, a workout room, a playroom for your kids, or even an income suite if you plan to rent it out. Before starting a basement conversion, ensure you waterproof the area properly, install adequate ventilation, and add adequate lighting.
Build a Loft Conversion
If you have an attic gathering dust, you can convert it into a cozy bedroom or an office. A loft conversion is a cost-effective way to turn a neglected space into a valuable living space. You can add skylights or dormer windows to make the room brighter and more spacious. A loft conversion can also increase your home’s value and attract potential buyers.
The lack of space is a problem faced by many Americans today. Understanding the root cause of your space issue and taking the proper steps to increase it can help you create a more comfortable home. From installing a garage door to adding an extension or converting your basement, there are several ways to maximize the available square footage in your home.
