Efficient Functionality.

To make the most out of the limited space you have to work with, maximising functionality with the items own can make a space work twice as hard and feel double in size. Designs that serve multiple purposes can reduce the number individual objects found in homes leaving you with more open, flexible spaces to do the activities you want.

This article will give a few examples of smart multifunctional designs that others have used to make their micro homes work harder for them. For more ideas, take a look at our

Pinterest board.

1. Storage is King!

Any item that can provide storage in addition to its primary function makes spaces more efficient. Under stair storage is a great example of how to utilise the awkward shape fo the steps. In this example they use it to store wine, glasses and plates, however, all sorts of small items can be placed here maximising storage wherever possible.

2. Vertical vs Horizontal.

Surfaces such as walls or countertops need to be carefully considered to account for use and future change. There are many ways in which to utilise walls so that they serve many functions. This could be by making the wall itself movable or fixing something to a wall to allow it to offer additional functionality. This wall desk pulls down from the wall when needed and has a small amount of storage within for work related items.

3. Expand and Contract

Objects that expand, slide out, fold down or fit together can be put away when they are not needed but brought out to serve a specific purpose. This coffee table can expand and rise up to serve as a dining table that can host eight people, but on a regular day, it is a simple and space efficient coffee table in front of the sofa.

4. More than a Bed.

The bed is a large object that is prominent in any room its in. Taking up a lot of floor space, it often leaves little space for anything else. This example below shows how the bed can be adapted to provide space for many functions without taking up any additional floor space in the room.

5. Re-inventing the Wheel

Adding wheels to your furniture makes them mobile and easy to move around. This means that they can be stored away when needed or moved to a new location to suit a different purpose. While this doesn't necessarily make the individual item multi-functional, it makes the space, as a whole, a lot more flexible.