Hobbies bring us joy and peace of mind. They provide us with a way to let out our creativity and pursue our passions. However, they also require time and space. And while we usually manage to find time for what matters to us, finding space can be way more difficult, especially if you live in a small home. Some hobbies such as reading or gaming don't require a lot of space. However, creating an art studio can be quite challenging when living small. But, with some determination and flexibility, nothing is impossible. Here are some excellent ideas on fitting your hobby into a small home!
Assess your needs and possibilities
Although that spacious, dream-like studio has to remain a dream, there are many ways to utilize the space you have. First things first, you should consider what you need the most and the options you have at your disposal. Having a good plan will help you set up everything with ease and stress-free.
For starters, make a detailed list of all the essentials for your hobby. What furniture pieces are necessary - a desk with a large work surface, a chair? Then, make a list of all supplies you need. What materials and tools do you use at all times? How much space will they occupy?
Last but not least, assess the rooms that could function as your hobby space. Depending on what your hobby requires, don't forget to consider these factors:
proper lighting
temperature (heating and cooling systems)
humidity
ventilation.
Once you put everything down on paper, the perfect solution may become obvious. Here are some of the most popular options for fitting your hobby into a small home!
Repurpose a room
If you're lucky enough to have an extra room in your home, that's perfect! A small room that you rarely use can be just what you need. For example, a little dining room you only use for special occasions can be easily repurposed as an ideal hobbyist's space.
Additionally, there are two rooms that people often overlook - the attic and the basement. With a little bit of effort and a few improvements, you can utilize your attic with ease. The same applies to the basement - after you finish it (if you haven't already), it can become your favorite part of the house!
Use the outdoor space
If you live in a house, there is a whole new world of possibilities for you. For example, you can use a garage or a shed you already have. After all, most people use them more often as storage space. Instead, clear the clutter and remodel your garage. That way, you'll create a cozy room where you can pursue your hobby with pleasure.
Create a separate area in your small apartment
On the other hand, if you live in a studio apartment, utilizing the outdoor space is not possible. However, if you're truly determined and passionate about your hobby, you can find a way to carve a cozy nook for it.
The key to creating the perfect space is making it separate and distinct from the rest of the room. What's best, there are many items you can use to divide the available space into clear areas. Here are some of the best ideas:
room dividers and partitions - they come in a variety of designs and materials and will add a stylish flair to your home
colorful throw rugs are perfect for creating distinct yet functional areas
drapes or curtains - if you don't want anyone to see your work in progress before it's finished, light, pretty curtains around your hobby space are the way to go
furniture pieces - rearrange your sofa or bookshelves so that they separate your pastime space from other parts of the room.
Store your supplies and requisites effectively
Once you decide on the right space for your hobby, there's still one question remaining. What to do with all the supplies, tools, and other equipment? Depending on your hobby, all of these can take up a lot of space. Not to mention, you need some room to work in!
Luckily, there are several things you can do. First, you can choose a cabinet or use a closet in your home and keep all your supplies there. However, one size doesn't fit all, and some people don't like this solution. Out of sight, out of mind - some hobbyists prefer their supplies to be close at hand.
Be creative with storage solutions
So, if your hobby requires a lot of setting up or you just love to see everything in one place, it's time to consider storage options. Of course, what will work best for you depends on the type, size, and amount of supplies you need. Here are some ideas:
multipurpose furniture - a desk with a lot of drawers or a chair with built-in storage are a great way to make the most of your furniture pieces
vertical racks and hooks won't take up floor space
additional shelving might be just what you need
bins, baskets, and various containers can be perfect for sorting your supplies
If you have difficulties fitting your hobby into a small home, move to a larger one!
Unfortunately, if nothing from above is an option for you, it might be the right time to relocate to a larger home. Pursuing hobbies has an important role in our life. Not only does it bring us joy and pleasure, but studies also show it's beneficial to our mental health and well-being. So, if your home feels too limited and cramped, moving to a larger home can be an all-around excellent idea.
For example, while living in NYC has many advantages, it also takes its toll on the quality of life. Especially if you live in Brooklyn, the constant hustle and bustle can be very stressful and overwhelming. So, it might be the right time to hire long-distance movers to help you leave Brooklyn for some quiet town where you can relax and enjoy everything life has to offer. Including your hobbies, of course.
Final thoughts
So, as you may see, even living small is not an obstacle to following your heart and passions. It's true that fitting your hobby into a small home can be pretty challenging. However, with a bit of effort and imagination, you can carve a perfect space for it. Having a dedicated space where you can spend hours enjoying your hobby will give you a new level of motivation and inspiration!
Meta description: Living small has many advantages as well as some challenges. Here are some excellent ideas for fitting your hobby into a small home!