If you’ve read many pieces from 22 Words, you’ve probably encountered my name before. (And, if you haven’t been peeping articles from 22 Words, what are you doing with your life?!) I’ve been writing professionally for nearly a quarter of a century now. (Andddd, now I’m depressed.) At my day job, however, I orchestrate marketing to sell houses. But, I’m not talking about just any houses; I’m talking about massive and usually ornate homes at the beach. Homes that would never understand having “space issues.”
I get space issues, personally. I’ve lived in all types of places — from apartments to townhouses to sprawling homes with big backyards that require year-round maintenance. There’s something quaint and minimalistic about existing in a small space but shopping for those space can be a challenge. I’ve got your back (and your tiny bathroom) below with the slimmest cabinets, tiniest tables and multipurpose furniture that’ll really blow your mind (but in a small, tidy way).
Don’t Be Shelf-ish
I mean, how can you have breakfast in bed if you don’t have anywhere to put it? This folding bedside shelf makes space where there isn’t any with thoughtful features designed specifically for headphones, cups or vases and phones or glasses. Clip it onto your bed frame and — bam! — instant nightstand. This is available in white, gray or black.
A Seat At The Table
There’s nothing better than multipurpose pieces because, to me, it feels like you’re getting more than you pay for. This mid-century modern coffee table has a hidden secret: A top that lifts to provide an elevated workspace as well as a concealed storage compartment below. (Not bad for less than $100).
Off The Rack
What do you do when you don’t have quite enough space in your kitchen? You remodel. But, I’m not talking about knocking down walls or removing cabinets. I’m talking about adding the versatility of a piece like this baker’s rack, which has multiple shelves and hooks for extra storage capabilities. One of these will fit nicely in that unused corner or against the wall near your kitchen table.
Desk Jockey
I’ve lived in some pretty small spaces where I could’ve used a desk but didn’t really have room for one. The problem would’ve been solved with this wall-mounted desk that hides away when not in use and has ample storage space when you’re working (or eating or playing cards or anything else). Reviewers call it the “bests low-cost space-saving desk on” Amazon — and that’s hard to argue with.
Let There Be Fire
Unless you’re mounting your television on a wall (and then where would all the cables go), you’re going to need an entertainment center and this one with a built-in fireplace is definitely the way to go as we head into winter. This version supports a television up to 55 inches and heats a space up to 400 square feet — perfect for an apartment.
Behind The Mirror
Years and years ago, my grandma bought me a jewelry armoire and — to this day — it’s the heaviest piece of furniture I own. But, it also takes up a good deal of space. This standing mirror armoire does double duty as a place to check your appearance before heading out the door while also storing your bits and baubles.
Air Your Dirty Laundry
A lack of space is not an excuse to throw your dirty clothes on the floor. (Do you hear me, guys?) This corner bamboo hamper with lid tucks neatly in beside an existing piece of furniture and has a removable liner so you can dump your dirties right from the bin into the washing machine (or take them to a laundromat). The bamboo material is also durable and lightweight.
Thump Your Chest
No matter how small your space is, you’re going to need somewhere to put your clothes … unless you plan to walk around naked, which I don’t advise. This compact four-drawer dresser takes advantage of vertical space while going light on the horizontal. It comes in a modern design perfect for a variety of rooms and gorgeous colors. (I’m in LOVE with the navy one!)
Book Smarts
Here’s the thing about books: You can’t buy just one and, as a result, the next thing you know, you could literally open a small library. These wall-mounted bookshelves make use of space you’re not utilizing anyway and are perfect for small hands. You’ll get a set of four shelves with this purchase, which works out to less than $9 apiece. Can you do that well at Walmart? I doubt it.
Clear The Table
You’re a grown-up, which means it’s time to stop eating in front of the TV — no matter how small your space is. This folding dining table can function as both added storage and as a makeshift dining table with folding leaves that adjust to three different modes. Six lockable wheels rotate 360 degrees to make it even simpler to position this exactly where you need it.
In A Tight Corner
If you haven’t noticed by now, corner space is where it’s at when you’re limited on space altogether. This five-tier corner shelf is the perfect place to display plants, trinkets or souvenirs from your travels in a way that won’t occupy much room. And, to be honest? It can add a little visual interest to a space you’re probably not maximizing. Choose from black or brown finishes.
Work It Out
Still WFH? I know I am but sitting at the desk for eight to 10 hours each day can be a real buzzkill. This adjustable-height portable desk lets you take your work wherever you want — from the couch to the patio and anywhere in between. With shelves for storage and easy wheels for moving it around, this will give your WFH life new life.
Top Shelf
I know what you’re thinking: How is that little outlet shelf going to save me space? Well, here’s the answer: Whether you’re stashing an Echo Dot in the kitchen or you need a safe space for your phone in the bathroom, this little guy can handle it. It also has built-in cable management so if you hate seeing cords everywhere, you can rest easy.
Bench Warmer
When Amazon reviewers throw around the word “perfect,” I sit up and take notice, and that’s exactly how many describe this folding storage ottoman bench. With the capability to support up to 660 pounds and store things out of sight, it’s maybe the best $40 you’ve ever spent on Amazon. Stash it at the foot of your bed for a place to pull on your shoes or use it as a toy box in a play space.
Join The Storage Potty
To me, bathrooms are the place where there’s never enough space; I don’t even care how big your bathroom is. This over-the-toilet storage shelving makes perfect use of space you’re not already utilizing with two shelves for personal care products, towels and more. It has a wall-mounted design, too, so there’s no risk of you making a mess for your 2 a.m. call from nature.
Guest Accommodations
‘Tis the season for visits from family … but where is everywhere going to sit, let alone sleep? Enter this triple fold-down sofa bed that offers both a place to sit as well as a place to lay your head. This convertible furniture folds up as a chair during the day and out as a sleeper sofa at night — minus the springs poking you in the back.
Pillow Talk
There’s something very Bohemian about a floor pillow and I love this one not only for its lush color selection but its high-end chenille tufted finish with scalloped edges. A generous 20-inch by 20-inch design, combine them for a bench or larger chair or snag one or two for a comfy, casual vibe. It’s also great for meditation or a quick yoga practice.
Rule The School
Even if you’re struggling with small spaces, don’t forget the “small faces” in your house. They need their own place, too! This darling children’s activity desk comes in a bold space design and offers plenty of room for them to sit, store goodies and either do homework or have a snack. This chair will grow with them, too, accommodating up to 50 pounds in weight.
On The Side
They had me at end table with a fast charging station built in — and for less than $60? I’ll take two. This narrow end table fits in small spaces, offers storage shelves and interior storage and gives you quick and easy access to that charging cord for your phone that you’re always on the hunt for. It offers three USB ports and additional electric outlets for the ultimate in convenience.
You’ve Been Cornered
Corner, corner, who’s got an empty corner? Oh, you do, you say? Then, you need this three-tiered corner shelf, which is a great solution for small kitchens, offices, baths or bedrooms. Store your spices or cooking utensils within arm’s reach or pile it high with beauty products or office gear. The high-quality bamboo and powder-coated metal brackets add a touch of modernity to any space.
Slim Pickings
Raise your hand if you’ve ever been sitting on the toilet, only to discover you’re fresh out of toilet paper? Yeah, my hand is up. This small bathroom storage cabinet can shimmy its way into the tiniest of spaces (and has just enough room for a few rolls of emergency TP). In fact, it has a toilet paper dispenser built in. The top shelf is great for greenery or your phone when you’re, you know, cleaning up.
Storage Wars
We’ve reached the end of our journey through genius small-space furniture but I can’t let you go without throwing this shoe-slash-coat-slash-hat-slash-keys organizer that’s just begging for a spot in your entryway. This powerhouse piece has room for eight pairs of shoes plus an assortment of hooks for scarves, coats, hats, keys and more. At less than $40, it’s destined to become your new favorite space-saving hack.