A bit about Abigail Jackson Designs & Saving Space in a Small Cottage

My husband and I first lived together in a 2-bedroom apartment down a beautiful road of large family homes – a classic example of buying the cheapest place on the nicest street.

When we moved in, it felt like we had loads of space.  The attic was almost as big as the living area so all our mess could easily be hidden out of view!
As the years went by, we outgrew the apartment.  When we got married our friends and family generously bought us some stunning kitchen equipment, but half of it sat gathering dust in the attic because we had no room for it in the kitchen.

In 2018 we moved to a cute little cottage just 2 miles down the road in Chalfont St Giles.

Although it had more living space, the cottage has very little storage – no garage, no attic, no basement.  This became even more noticeable when, in September 2018, I started my own interior design and home accessories business – working from my home studio. 

Since then I have been coming up with design ideas to create more space and a beautiful home.  Here are some of my ideas that I want to pass on to you. ​

De-clutter often

After years of organising and re-organising homes for clients, I’ve often found that a small space isn’t the real problem.

The main problem is that I (or the client) had too much stuff lying around.

It’s hard to let go of things sometimes because we think, “Well what if I need that someday…?”

But I think if you haven’t used it, read it or referred to it in the last year then it’s time to throw it out or sell it online. This is the only way to create a clam, peaceful uncluttered cottage. If you can push past that mental block of being afraid to throw things away, it is seriously so freeing once you’re done!

Lounge Storage ideas

Wall to wall bookshelves…

Look at how much you can fit along one expanse of wall!

​To make the space less busy, paint the walls a pale chalk colour as you want as much light as possible to flow into the space.

Bathroom Storage ideas
If your bathroom is more of a closet than a water closet, fret not.  There’s a lot that can be done to enlarge a small bathroom and create plenty of space. Even if you incorporate just two of these ideas, you’ll see a drastic difference.

Install a Shelf Above the Sink
With a small bathroom, the best way to maximise storage and minimise clutter is to make the most of your vertical space – more cabinets on the wall, less furniture on the floor. Installing a small shelf between your sink and mirror is a great way of providing an extra surface for cosmetics and toiletries while getting ready.

​Hang cosmetics & toiletries on the Back of the Door
Instead of a cabinet on the floor, use the back of your bathroom door to store your towels, cosmetics and toiletries. This area often goes forgotten, but allows you to hang several shelves instead of just one.

Under stairs storage 
Wondering how to use the space under the stairs in your home?  With a little creativity, this compact (and awkwardly shaped) area can be transformed into a functional (and beautiful) storage space you’ll love!

Sliding drawers are an easy and compact way to use this space that would otherwise go to waste. They also provide a way to hide unsightly items, making them great for storing shoes and coats, washing machines and tumble dryers.