Maximizing Space in Small, Older Homes: Smart Design Strategies That Work
- 13thavenueinterior
- Sep 1
- 4 min read
Older homes—especially the ones scattered across South Minneapolis—are full of charm, character, and history. But what they often lack is space. If you live in one of these historic gems, you’ve likely encountered the challenge of making a smaller footprint work for modern life.
At 13th Avenue Interiors, many of our clients love their old homes but struggle with awkward layouts, limited storage, and rooms that just don’t function the way today’s families need them to. The good news? With thoughtful design, even the smallest spaces can be transformed into beautiful, hardworking areas that suit your lifestyle without sacrificing the character that made you fall in love with the home in the first place.
Here’s how to maximize space and functionality in small, older homes—while staying true to their original charm.
Understand the Unique Challenges of Older Homes
Before diving into solutions, it’s important to understand the common spatial limitations of older homes:
Modest square footage: Especially compared to modern builds.
Closed-off floor plans: Rooms were built for specific purposes and may not reflect today’s desire for open flow.
Limited built-in storage: Closets are often shallow or few and far between.
Unusual room shapes: Additions and renovations over the years can leave awkward nooks or traffic patterns.
But with the right strategies, these challenges can become opportunities for creative solutions.
Make Your Furniture (and Rooms) Work Harder
In small homes, every piece of furniture needs to earn its place. That means prioritizing multi-use pieces that do double duty:
Benches with storage are ideal for mudrooms or dining areas.
Ottomans or coffee tables with hidden storage can hide blankets, toys, or games.
Wall-mounted drop-down desks or foldaway tables can turn underused corners into productive spaces.
Guest rooms can double as playrooms, home offices, or even a workout space with clever furniture and storage planning.
Rooms themselves can be more flexible than you think. Instead of sticking to outdated “room labels,” think about how your family actually lives and what each space could become.
Use Visual Tricks to Make Rooms Feel Bigger
Design can’t physically add square footage (without a remodel), but it can change how a space feels:
Mirrors strategically placed to reflect light can instantly open up a room.
Consistent color palettes across rooms create flow and help spaces feel more connected.
Light paint colors—especially in cooler tones—can make rooms feel airier.
Uncluttered window treatments let natural light do the heavy lifting.
Furniture placement matters: pulling pieces slightly off the wall can make rooms feel larger than pushing everything to the edges.
Think Vertically for Storage and Style
When floor space is limited, go up:
Tall bookcases or shelving units draw the eye upward and provide ample storage.
Floating shelves above doorways, toilets, or even beds can add a surprising amount of functionality.
Vertical cabinetry in kitchens, mudrooms, or bathrooms maximizes wall space and keeps essentials tucked away.
Even hooks and hanging baskets can free up precious square footage.
Customize Solutions for Awkward Spaces
Older homes are full of quirks—sloped ceilings, underused corners, and little bump-outs that don’t seem to serve a purpose. Instead of ignoring them, use them:
Built-in cabinetry or bookshelves can make odd angles feel intentional.
Under-stair storage is perfect for shoes, cleaning supplies, or even a small workspace.
Custom millwork lets you tailor storage to your family’s specific needs without compromising on style.
These tailored solutions not only solve functional problems—they add value and character to the home.
Keep the Charm, Improve the Flow
Preserving the feel of your older home doesn’t mean keeping every inch as-is. Sometimes a small tweak—like a new furniture layout or updated lighting—can dramatically improve how a space functions.
Don’t be afraid to modernize elements like outlets, overhead lighting, or cabinet hardware.
Preserve original details (wood floors, moldings, windows) wherever possible.
The goal is a thoughtful blend of modern livability and historic beauty—a home that works for your family without losing its soul.
Small Homes, Big Possibilities
Old homes come with quirks, but they also come with unmatched character. With a smart design approach, limited space doesn’t have to feel limiting. You can honor the history of your home while making it work beautifully for your life today.
Is your small, older home not living up to its full potential? At 13th Avenue Interiors, we specialize in helping families make the most of every inch—without sacrificing charm or comfort. Reach out today to schedule a discovery call and let’s talk about what’s possible in your space.
Creating Something Beautiful Together
If you have an old home in, or around, South Minneapolis and are wondering how to update it with expertise and ease, we’re here to help. Reach out today to learn how we can help guide you through the process with ease and expertise.
*Click photos to link to source. Images may contain affiliate links.
*This blog post was created with the assistance of AI in combination with 13th Avenue Interiors ideas, knowledge, expertise and experience.
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