Trying to make the most out of your small space can seem daunting, but it doesn't have to be! There are some easy solutions to maximize every square inch in your home, without breaking the bank.

1. Have your furniture do double duty. This simple trick can add up to a lot of extra space that you could be missing. Looking for more storage in your bedroom but don't have any wall space? Try a storage bed. Make all of that wasted space under your bed work for you! It's the perfect place to store off-season clothes. Here are two great options for optimizing your space. Our 0395 storage bed in espresso by Dynamic Furniture or our 5046 bunk bed in cappuccino by Monarch. Need a place for guests to stay but don't have the room for an extra bed? Try a futon like our 5290 futon from Crown Mark and get additional seating as well. Even our storage ottoman OTTO ST can work wonders to hide away living room messes quickly! 2. Create an optical illusion. Aside from breaking down walls, there are ways to make your space look bigger without even pulling out the sledge hammer. Keep your space airy and open. De-clutter and try to paint with neutrals or lighter colours. The same thing goes with your furniture. Try to buy pieces that do not weigh your space down. Look for pieces that do not touch the floor or have just legs, giving the illusion of more space. 3. Smart size. Remember when you go to look at furniture in the showroom that it will appear larger in your home. Double check your measurements. Can you really fit a sofa in your space or would a loveseat and chair be more appropriate? Instead of eyeing the oversized sofa, look at sleeker lines to make the most out of your space. You can also look at apartment sized furniture for the same look but on a smaller scale. Our 8001 sectional by Carolina Girl in Bulldozer Black is a perfect option. 4. Light it up. Illuminate dark corners to highlight additional square footage. Replacing old lights with more stylish lamps and higher wattage bulbs will make all the difference. Look for lamps with dimmers to change the mood. Even getting a smaller shade can add more space. These lamps by Ashley are stylish and the perfect cure for brightening up your space. Look for 2119, 1417, 1218, 1179 or 3699 to name a few great options. 5. Don't be afraid of colour. While painting your small space dark red might not be appropriate, don't be afraid of colour. Add in a stylish accent chair for a focal point and draw the eye away from the size of the room. Our chic 3028 chair by Ufi comes in many fun patterns and colours and will make your room come to life. Change up your pillows for a low cost update with maximum impact. Rugs can be another great option. All of our signature rugs by Ashley can bring your room together. A misconception about rugs is that they need to be small. Try to find one that is the width of your sofa or larger to get the look of a larger space. 6. Take a photograph. Sometimes the only way to truly see your space is through a photograph. Maybe you need to move things around, or raise up your pictures. Are you really using all of the items in your space or can they be put away or donated? A photograph will help to give you an objective view of your space. 7. Be inspired. Log into Pinterest, get out Google and surf around for pictures that inspire you or small spaces that illustrate what is possible. The perfect inspiration can be anywhere so pick up magazines or books and get out your scissors and pins to make an inspiration board. 8. Trust your gut. Do what you feel comfortable with and fits your space. Add your own personality and stamp. Be experimental and don't be afraid to think outside the box. Have fun getting the most out of your space! ​