“Help! My home is closing in on me and I don’t know what to do!” If you fear the next best thing to escape a small space is to live in the garden, then you may need to relook your interior. After sampling many an interior revamp done by Mint Designer Renovations, we think they’re a safe and affordable choice. Here are some space creation tips from the experts…

To make the most out of a small space, Mint Designer Renovations suggests following the three golden Ss: streamline, simplify and suspend. Make your space appear larger by clearing the clutter and replacing lots of items with single, big and simple ones. This way you can reclaim your space from space dwarfing objects. You may even apply this motto – if you love it, let it stay. If it’s just ok, throw it away!

Mint Designer Renovations gives an example of simplifying a space – replacing a sofa with a corner unit. Many people don’t realize that having furniture that juts out into the midst of things takes up a whole lot of space by being meddlesome. The less things you have to walk around, the better!

A way to avoid bumping into meddlesome furnishings is by suspending them! Free up space by incorporating floating shelves and units. Opt for linear fixtures rather than chunky, boxy ones to give a feeling of openness. Mirrors also give the illusion of space. Put them above couches, vanities, beds, in hallways…go wild!. This will make spaces seem like they continue when they, in fact, have come to an abrupt end. Streamline by replacing small panelled doors with sliding doors and use glass to let more of the open outdoors in!

For more information on how to make the most out of your small space, visit the Mint Designer Renovations website at www.minthouse.co.za.