When Every Inch Counts: 14 More Clever Small Space Hacks

Small Space Hacks Compact Kitchen 3

Making a tiny living space comfortable and practical means integrating multi-purpose furniture, custom built-ins and lots of other clever space-saving tricks. These 14 (more) small space hacks include a few DIY projects that can be achieved with components purchased at Ikea.

Incredibly Compact Kitchen
Small Space Hacks Compact Kitchen 1

Small Space Hacks Compact Kitchen 2

Starting as a narrow dining table, this ultra-compact kitchen swings open to reveal an induction cooktop, oven, refrigerator and storage space with a sink and a work surface. Slide it under the white table unit when not in use or pull it out into its own little island – perfect for the minimalist cook working in a small space. Check out 15 more modular & multipurpose kitchens for small spaces.

Spaceflavor Mobile Cube: Office/Tea House in One
Small Space Hacks Spaceflavor Cube 1

Small Space Hacks Spaceflavor Cube 2

Feng Shui expert Liu Ming created the Mobile Cube to compartmentalize his personal space in a live/work apartment that has to accommodate over 30 students during classes. The entire cube is on wheels, with a lower portion that can contain a bedroom or an office, and a loft that functions as meditation space, a sleeping area or a tea room (as he uses it.) It measures just eight feet square and has hidden stairs that double as drawers, as well as cabinets, closet space and translucent roller shades.

Fold-Out Picnic Table
Small Space Hacks Fold Out Table 1

Small Space Hacks Fold Out Table 2

This picnic table offered by a Brazilian furniture store has enough seating for six people, yet folds completely flat against the wall when not in use, opening up the floor for other purposes.

IKEA Closet Makeover
Small Space Hacks Closet 1

Small Space Hacks Closet 2

A cluttered closet in a small Brooklyn apartment now has a dedicated space for everything from shoes to handbags courtesy of an IKEA makeover. While the overall size of this closet would be luxurious in most small spaces, the setup could easily be customized to your own needs while maintaining organization.

DIY Murphy Bed
Small Space Hacks DIY Murphy Bed 1

Small Space Hacks DIY Murphy Bed 2

If you’re an ambitious DIYer, you can attempt your own murphy bed, like this one at a sustainability camp in Maryland. DIY Network has plans for a simpler version, or you can try an Ikea hack with sliding doors over at Instructables.