
We asked Maxwell Gillingham-Ryan, cofounder of
apartmenttherapy.com
and author of the new book Apartment Therapy Presents: Real Homes, Real People, Hundreds of Design Solutions, how to squeeze out a few extra feet.
Create a Landing Strip
(no, not down there): Equip your entryway with a chic wastebasket to trash unwanted mail. Check the junk at the door to keep your living space clutter-free.
Lighten Up:
If your space feels small, it's probably because it's underlit and full of shadows. Have three points of light in each room (not including the one in the middle of the ceiling). It's the cheapest way to create spaciousness.
Keep 10% Empty:
Spring-clean areas like your bookcase, shoe rack, or closet to free up room. "It's the only way to have space for new things in your life," says Gillingham-Ryan. Nordstrom, here we come.
More Articles from The Smart Girl's Guide to Living Alone
Marie Claire Newsletter
Celebrity news, beauty, fashion advice, and fascinating features, delivered straight to your inbox!
-
The Unexpected Character in Season Six of ‘The Crown’? Princess Diana’s Swimsuits
"The swimsuit is the new ball gown.”
By Rachel Burchfield
-
Spain’s Queen Letizia Masters the Wintery White Pantsuit for Royal Engagement Celebrating Her Former Career
Before she was a member of the Spanish royal family, Letizia was an accomplished journalist.
By Rachel Burchfield
-
Priyanka Chopra Jonas Made Us Do a Double Take in A Pink and Black Bodycon Dress
Chopra Jonas—along with a slew of other celebrities—were on hand for the F1 Grand Prix of Abu Dhabi.
By Rachel Burchfield
-
The Best Bollywood Movies of 2023 (So Far)
Including one that just might fill the Riverdale-shaped hole in your heart.
By Andrea Park
-
‘Bachelor in Paradise’ 2023: Everything We Know
Cue up Mike Reno and Ann Wilson’s “Almost Paradise."
By Andrea Park
-
Who Is Gerry Turner, the ‘Golden Bachelor’?
The Indiana native is the first senior citizen to join Bachelor Nation.
By Andrea Park
-
‘Virgin River’ Season 6: Everything We Know
The cast and crew are pausing the hit show in support of the writers' strike.
By Andrea Park
-
The 60 Best Musical Movies of All Time
All the dance numbers! All the show tunes!
By Amanda Mitchell
-
'Ginny & Georgia' Season 2: Everything We Know
Netflix owes us answers after that ending.
By Zoe Guy
-
35 Nude Movies With Porn-Level Nudity
Lots of steamy nudity ahead.
By Kayleigh Roberts
-
The Cast of 'The Crown' Season 5: Your Guide
The Mountbatten-Windsors have been recast—again.
By Andrea Park