By Crystal Collinson
As the principal designer at Collinson Interiors Inc., we are fortunate to be the interior design team on several condominium developments underway in Ontario. Currently, we are working on the suite furniture plans for the sales material, as we are planning the furniture arrangements for these suites, it has got me thinking a lot about small-space living.
Here in Ontario, we are facing a housing supply crisis, compounded by increased mortgage interest rates, making homeownership increasingly more unattainable for many. Along with the financial burdens, there are many other reasons small-space living has gained popularity. As someone who loves the tiny home movement and has the desire to become a minimalist (I have a long way to go before I get there, but I am very interested in this simplified lifestyle), I am seeing more and more benefits of moving to more space-efficient solution especially in densely populated urban environments.
In my opinion, small-space living has more pros than cons.
Cost-effective:
● Smaller spaces often come with lower rent or mortgage costs.
● Utility bills may be reduced due to less space to heat, cool and light.
Minimalist lifestyle:
● It encourages a minimalist and clutter-free lifestyle, as residents are forced to prioritize essential items.
● Promotes conscious consumption and discourages unnecessary purchases.
Environmental impact:
● Smaller spaces typically have a smaller environmental footprint, requiring fewer resources to build and maintain.
● Reduced energy consumption for heating, cooling and lighting.
Sustainable living:
● Encourages sustainability through limited resource usage and reduced waste generation.
● Promotes the use of multi-functional furniture and creative storage solutions.
Easier maintenance:
● Smaller spaces are generally easier to clean and maintain, saving time and effort.
● Reduced need for extensive repairs and maintenance.
Community engagement:
● Compact living spaces often lead to closer-knit communities, as residents share common areas and facilities.
● Opportunities for social interaction may increase in communal spaces.
Increased mobility:
● Smaller living spaces are easier to move into and out of, allowing for increased flexibility and mobility.
● Ideal for individuals or families who enjoy frequent relocations.
Fosters creativity:
● Limited space encourages creative and efficient use of available resources.
● Residents often find innovative solutions for storage, organization and multi-functional furniture.
Focus on experiences:
● With less space for material possessions, individuals may prioritize experiences and relationships over material accumulation.
● Emphasis on quality of life rather than the quantity of possessions.
Reduced stress:
● A smaller space may contribute to a simpler, less stressful lifestyle by minimizing decision fatigue.
● Less space can lead to a more organized and easily manageable living environment.
Energy efficiency:
● Smaller spaces often require less energy for heating and cooling, contributing to energy efficiency.
● Reduced carbon footprint associated with lower energy consumption.
Financial freedom:
● Lower living costs in a small space may result in increased financial freedom.
● More disposable income for savings, travel, or other personal goals.
While small-space living may not be suitable for everyone, those who embrace it often find a range of benefits that align with their values and lifestyle preferences.