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Derek Diedricksen's Tips for Small Space Living
Jan 3, 2019, 14:25 PM
As the former host of HGTV’s Tiny House Builder and Extreme Small Spaces, Derek Diedricksen is known for creating micro structures using salvaged materials. Derek has been building, designing and blogging about tiny houses since 2009 through his website Relaxshacks.com. He’s also the host and producer of the YouTube channel relaxshacksDOTcom, and the author behind several books, including the bestseller Microshelters, and the newly released Micro Living. But even if you don’t live in a tiny home, Derek says there are a few things you should consider no matter how small the space.
Moving into a significantly smaller space shouldn’t be a spur-of-the-moment decision. Make sure you’ve properly planned about the overall furniture layout, design and storage that will fit your taste and physical needs before making the commitment, because downsizing is usually a laborious process. Before deciding to permanently downsize, consider renting a small home or apartment to get a feel for less space.
Get Rid of Stuff
Once you decide to make the jump into a smaller space, the bottom line is, you’re going to have to get rid stuff. So be honest about what you’re willing to live without. We’re all attached to certain possessions, but it’s important to acknowledge the difference between our wants and needs. Always remember to ask yourself: Is this useful? How often will I use it? Do I need to own it, or can I rent or borrow it?
Stay Organized
Overcoming limited space involves some creativity. Think about how you can use leftover or salvaged materials, and invest in container bins, baskets and even binders to help you stay organized.
It’s always important to create an environment that’s indicative of your taste. Yes, it’s true that light colors can make most rooms appear larger, but if you prefer a more stylish look, then go for darker shades or bright, bold colors anyway. Your space should ultimately reflect your personality. Don’t be afraid to try something unconventional in order to make a space your own.
Learn more tips from Derek at the Oklahoma City Home + Garden Show January 18-20. He’ll talk more about tiny home living on the Workshop Stage in the Centennial Building Friday, Saturday and Sunday. For times and details, check out the stage schedule online. We can't wait to see you there!
Moving into a significantly smaller space shouldn’t be a spur-of-the-moment decision. Make sure you’ve properly planned about the overall furniture layout, design and storage that will fit your taste and physical needs before making the commitment, because downsizing is usually a laborious process. Before deciding to permanently downsize, consider renting a small home or apartment to get a feel for less space.
Get Rid of Stuff
Once you decide to make the jump into a smaller space, the bottom line is, you’re going to have to get rid stuff. So be honest about what you’re willing to live without. We’re all attached to certain possessions, but it’s important to acknowledge the difference between our wants and needs. Always remember to ask yourself: Is this useful? How often will I use it? Do I need to own it, or can I rent or borrow it?
Stay Organized
Overcoming limited space involves some creativity. Think about how you can use leftover or salvaged materials, and invest in container bins, baskets and even binders to help you stay organized.
It’s always important to create an environment that’s indicative of your taste. Yes, it’s true that light colors can make most rooms appear larger, but if you prefer a more stylish look, then go for darker shades or bright, bold colors anyway. Your space should ultimately reflect your personality. Don’t be afraid to try something unconventional in order to make a space your own.
Learn more tips from Derek at the Oklahoma City Home + Garden Show January 18-20. He’ll talk more about tiny home living on the Workshop Stage in the Centennial Building Friday, Saturday and Sunday. For times and details, check out the stage schedule online. We can't wait to see you there!
JANUARY 18-20, 2019.
STATE FAIR PARK