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Feeling a bit cramped in your spare room? We’ll show you how to transform it from a catch-all space into a neat, multi-functional area you’ll be proud to show off. Whether you’re in a cosy Dublin apartment or a snug cottage outside of Dublin, our 11 clever small spare room storage ideas will help you double your available space, so you can unlock your spare room’s potential.
Put the kettle on and settle in for a read. Your small spare room is about to get a makeover that’ll have you wondering why you didn’t do it sooner!
Storage Solutions Using Wall Space
When it comes to making the most of your small spare room, the walls are your new best friend. Here are some storage ideas that maximise wall space in that small room.
1. Floating Shelves
Let’s start with floating shelves which are perfect for displaying your prized collection of books or those family heirlooms you’ve been meaning to show off. By using vertical space, you’ll keep your floor clutter-free, giving you more space in your spare room.
2. Pegboard Organiser
The pegboard organiser is a DIY enthusiast’s dream come true. They accommodate a wide range of different items and their design allows for easy access to whatever you need to store from paintbrushes to postcards. Pegboards are available in different materials like metal, wood, or plastic, each offering durability and aesthetic appeal.
You can personalise your pegboard layout by selecting hooks and accessories that suit the things you want stored.
3. Wall-Mounted Desk
With space at a premium in many Irish homes, a fold-down desk is like finding a four-leaf clover — rare and lucky! It’s perfect for those tight spaces where you need to work but can’t afford to lose precious floor real estate. When you’re done for the day, simply fold it up and reclaim your room.
Hidden Furniture Storage Ideas
Now, let’s talk about furniture that’s as clever as a fox and twice as useful!
4. Ottoman With Storage
An ottoman is a nifty piece of furniture that provides a comfy seat but lift the lid and voilà, you’ve got a hidden storage space that’s ideal for stashing away extra blankets or those family photo albums you don’t want the neighbours peeking at.
5. Bed With Built-In Drawers
If you’re living in a cosy Dublin flat or a compact Belfast apartment, this type of bed is worth its weight in gold. It’s like having your very own secret vault, right under where you sleep.
These integrated drawers are perfect for maximising that often-wasted under-bed space. You can tuck away your winter woollies, spare linens, or even that emergency stash of Tayto crisps.
Multi-Functional Spare Room Ideas
6. Murphy Bed With Desk
By day the Murphy bed with desk is a proper office where you can answer emails and then at night it transforms quicker into a cosy bedroom.
7. Convertible Sofa Bed
This is the unsung hero of small spaces. During the day, it’s a comfy spot for watching the match or having a cuppa with the neighbours. But when you’ve got guests staying over, the sofa unfolds into a bed.
Turn Your Spare Room Into a Walk-In Closet
8. Modular Closet System
A modular closet is a versatile storage system consisting of customisable modules like shelves, drawers, and hanging rods. It allows you to configure the closet according to your specific needs, offering flexibility in layout.
These systems are easy to install and can adapt to various room sizes and types of closets and are designed to optimise storage space.
9. Over-the-Door Organisers
Now, let’s not forget about that often-overlooked bit of real estate — the back of your door. Over-the-door organisers are perfect for those bits and bobs that always seem to be underfoot. Whether it’s your collection of scarves to combat the Irish weather, your shoes for every occasion, or those small items that seem to multiply, an over-the-door organiser will keep them all in check.
Craft Room and Hobby Space Storage Ideas
10. Rolling Cart
This mobile marvel can hold all your craft supplies or hobby equipment and it’s easy to move. Need to make space? Just wheel your cart into the corner, and you’re grand!
11. Magnetic Wall Strip
A magnetic wall strip is perfect for organising all those small metal tools and supplies. Whether you’re setting up a sewing room or an art studio, this vertical storage solution is just the ticket.
Organising Specific Items in Your Spare Room
- Clear Plastic Bins: Use clear bins to store off-season clothing, for example. Label each bin clearly and stack them neatly to save space and easily identify contents.
- Under-Bed Storage: Utilise the space under the bed with shallow bins or vacuum-sealed bags for storing items like sweaters or jackets.
- Clothing Racks or Rails: Install a clothing rack or rail in the spare room to hang seasonal items that need to be easily accessible.
- Drawer Organisers: Use drawer dividers or organisers to maximise space in dresser drawers for smaller clothing items or accessories.
- Media Consoles: Invest in a media console with shelves or drawers to pack away DVDs, CDs, or video games.
Preparing Your Spare Room for Rental
Why not make a few extra quid from that spare room of yours? Preparing your spare room for rental involves several essential steps to ensure it appeals to potential tenants and meets their needs.
- Begin by thoroughly cleaning and decluttering the space, removing personal items to create a neutral environment.
- Conduct any necessary repairs to ensure everything is in good working order, from fixtures to safety features like smoke detectors.
- Furnish the room with essentials such as a comfortable bed, storage options, and adequate lighting.
- Decorate in neutral tones with tasteful accessories to create a welcoming atmosphere.
- Make sure that the room is equipped with practical amenities like reliable Wi-Fi and adequate heating or cooling.
- Consider privacy and security measures such as locks on bedroom doors and window coverings.
- Clarify house rules for all tenants.
- Legal considerations, including drafting a rental agreement and possibly obtaining landlord insurance, are crucial to protect both parties.
Once the room is prepared, take high-quality photos and write a compelling rental listing highlighting the room’s features and benefits.
If you live in areas close to Dublin’s city centre like Churchtown, Kylemore, Deansgrange, or Sandyford,, there could be a strong rental demand for a Dublin spare room that you could capitalise on, as these areas offer convenient access from public transport, a range of local amenities, and proximity to recreational facilities.
Save Space With Nesta
Implementing these small spare room storage ideas can dramatically increase your available space. Whether you’re creating a home office, guest room, or craft space, these solutions will help you maximise every inch of your spare room. Remember, if you still need extra space, Nesta offers convenient self storage options across Ireland. Ready to declutter your spare room? Explore Nesta’s self storage solutions today. Get a quote now!
