How to Make the Most of Small Space

There are numerous benefits that come with living in an apartment. There is less space to take care of, no yard maintenance, and extra amenities like gyms, pools and common areas. At the same time, because apartments are smaller, every square foot counts. It’s important to know how to make the most of small spaces to live comfortably. Here are several tips that everyone should keep in mind.

Use Smaller Tables

Yes, there is something elegant that comes with having a full-size dining room table; however, it is challenging to shift a dining room table out of the way or maneuver it in such a way that it takes up less space. Instead, use a dinette set or a pub table. They’re still stylish but simply take up less room. If you have a lot of guests coming over and the table isn’t big enough, this might be a good time to spread the party out between the living area and the table. Furthermore, there might be a way to take the party outside to the pool, grill or another community area.

Consider Foldable Options

Alluding to the party situation above, it might be a good idea to find a table that can extend with an added leaf when necessary. The table can be kept small most of the time; however, if necessary, a leaf can be added to make room for a few extra people.

Another great example is a foldable bed. Rather than commit floor space to a full-size bed, consider finding a foldable option instead. This might include a pull-out couch or Murphy bed. Most of the time the couch will function as additional seating in the living area; however, in a pinch, this is a great place for a guest to sleep.

Vertical Storage

In houses, most people think of storage in a horizontal manner. Items are spread out through different rooms and closets. In an apartment, storage has to be planned vertically. The square footage is limited; however, if items are stored vertically, they still take up the same square footage. For example, consider stacking shelving units on top of each other. Have a few units side by side and then add more on top. This will stretch the storage space vertically instead of horizontally while also storing items efficiently. It might be helpful to loft the bed and store items underneath as well.

Living in Small Spaces with California Stools, Bars, and Dinettes

Apartment living is fantastic, but space can be limited so a little careful planning goes a long way. At California Stools, Bars, and Dinettes, we have two convenient locations in San Jose and Pleasant Hills. We have everything you need to make the most of apartment living. Come and visit us today!

Dining Tables That Double as Desks

Working from home definitely has its perks, and with more and more people transitioning to home-based work in recent months, you’ve likely had the chance to discover them. Whether you’re working from home out of necessity in light of the pandemic or have made the transition to buy yourself some flexibility, the right work area is important. Before you rush out and buy a desk with all of the bells and whistles, consider instead a dining room table. A dining room table can make an excellent workspace, and here’s why.

Tables Increase Your Workspace

Today’s computers are smaller than ever, but the need for a workspace has increased. You need room to spread out documents, design layouts, and notes. A traditional desk doesn’t give you much space, but a table means plenty of room to work. Sure, you’ll have fewer drawers to store things, but add a basket or file shelf to the tabletop to use as storage instead.

Tables Serve Two Purposes

If you’re short on space, using a table as your desk as well as your dining area means your work area takes up less space in your home. You can clear the table of work-related items for meals, then put your laptop and papers back when it’s time to work.

If the table won’t be used for dining, you can use it as a communal space. When you’re done with work for the day, clear off the laptop and have a game night with your kids, or let them use it for a craft space. The larger work surface of a table gives you plenty of room to explore these ideas when you clock out at the end of the day.

Adjustable Height Dining Tables Work Well as Desk

One potential drawback of using a dining table as a desk is the height, which may not be ideal for good typing posture. Choosing a dinette table that has an adjustable height overcomes this problem. You can raise or lower the table depending on the day’s activities, so you can use it for dining and work.

Better Aesthetics

Another reason to choose a dining table as a desk, even if you have a dedicated workspace, is aesthetics. You can choose a table that matches the style of your home or office, whether that’s shabby chic, modern, or traditional. Your table-turned-desk will fit seamlessly with your design choices. Not only that, but dining room tables, unlike desks, look good from all angles. If your workspace isn’t going to be up against a wall, a table prevents it from turning into an eyesore.

Dining room tables are quickly becoming a multi-purpose addition to your home. Whether you’re adding one to your dining area or using it in your office as you work from home, finding the right table is key. At California Stools, Bars and Dinettes, we will help you find the right dining room table, so you can set up a work-from-home environment that works for your needs. Give us a call to discuss your needs today.