Secret Stash

Storage is at a premium in any home, no matter its size. But the smaller a house is, the more efficiently it has to perform. If your big dream is for a little log cabin, here are 11 unexpected ways you can boost its storage space without upping its square footage.

1 Try a reverse Murphy bed.

We’ve all seen Murphy beds that fold into the wall and disappear from view, but what about a clever bed that flips up to reveal concealed storage? Tuck in your extra sheets and pillows to free up space in your linen closet, or store off-season clothes to make more room in your walk-in.

2 Put the pantry on display.

If your small home doesn’t have room for a pantry behind closed doors, don’t fret. Open shelving is a hot design trend. Keep the look tidy with coordinating baskets or oversized Mason jars filled with your daily provisions.

3 Add under-stair storage.

The area beneath your stairs doesn’t have to be a dead zone. Built-in drawers can tidily hide away those day-to-day necessities. Create attractive open lockers to hang coats, scarves and umbrellas. Or try concealing the cavity with a false wall and a hidden door — it’s the perfect hiding place for your home safe or other valuables.

4 Get hooked.

Hang your cups and mugs from hooks inside your cupboards, leaving the shelf space for saucers, bowls and other items. This increases your usable space without adding more cabinets.

5 Convert your kitchen drawers.