On our densely populated island, many small older residences are in need of updating and modernizing. And with the highest real estate costs in the country — $660/square foot, versus the national median of about $233 – it’s critical to maximize every inch of those smaller homes.
Malia Yee is senior architectural designer for Graham Builders, an award-winning Honolulu design/build firm that has successfully found ways to make big impact in smaller homes.
“When your available building space is limited due to small lot size or buildable area, it is possible to maximize that space with smart design strategies,” Yee says.
Smart strategies for maximizing small spaces
With more than three decades of experience, the Graham Builders team has figured out how to create small homes that don’t skimp on space.
“That doesn’t mean we build larger houses on small lots,” says Yee. “It simply means that every inch of a property, indoors and out, is designed and built with both efficiency and comfort in mind.”
Make moderate use of sprawling vertical spaces. Possibilities might include open shelves for books and décor that you don’t often use, high cabinets for storage, and even lofts, if there’s enough room. But keep everything well-lit and uncrowded to avoid feeling closed-in.
When you can, blur the line between indoors and outdoors. “Wide glass doors allow indoor and outdoor spaces to borrow from each other, so that two smaller spaces, combined, feel like one large space,” says Yee. “And large expanses of windows bring views, light, and ventilation to adjacent inside spaces.”
Light helps open up small spaces. Optimally, rooms should have plenty of natural light; shadows make them look smaller. Mirrors, lighter paint colors, French and sliding glass doors, and light wood floors help with this. Skylights, transoms, and French and sliding doors increase available sunlight.
Make the most of what you have. Removing walls can open up space, creating flexible and accessible open floor plans. Pocket doors are an excellent space-saving solution. Take advantage of those small, often overlooked corners, nooks, and crannies. Consider built-in cupboards, window seats with hidden storage, and utilizing space under staircases for additional storage.
Prioritize; be purposeful and selective! “Are you willing to have a smaller interior space to accommodate a larger outdoor space?” asks Yee. “If that makes sense for your family and for your property, it’s worth considering.”
Get creative about multi-use areas. “Can one space serve two functions?” asks Yee. “Perhaps your carport can serve as both covered parking for daily use, and convert to a gathering space for social gatherings.” Don’t forget rooftop decks, covered lanais and screened-in porches that can function as living and dining areas, or even an extra bedroom in a pinch.
Founded in 1990, Graham Builders remains the only contractor in Hawaii honored by the Better Business Bureau’s Torch Award for Business Ethics. Plan your dream home with Graham Builders’ FREE “Building Your Home for Life” seminar on Saturday, September 14, from 9-11 a.m. at the Honolulu Country Club. Register at grahambuilders.com or call 808/593-2808.