8 Property Brothers hacks for small spaces

Jonathan and Drew Scott have renovated more homes than most people will ever step into, and they know the struggles of making a small space feel bigger. Their best tricks are all about squeezing functionality out of every inch without making it look cluttered.

If you’ve got a smaller house or apartment, their strategies prove you don’t need a huge footprint to make a home feel comfortable.

Use Light Colors to Open Up Rooms

The Brothers often recommend light paint colors, especially whites and soft grays, to make small rooms feel bigger. They’ll even paint ceilings a lighter shade than the walls to trick the eye into thinking the ceiling is higher.

Mirrors are another favorite. By bouncing light around, mirrors visually expand tight spaces. It’s an old design hack, but they show how powerful it can be when used strategically in hallways or bedrooms.

Choose Multipurpose Furniture

When space is limited, every piece of furniture needs to earn its keep. The Brothers often bring in ottomans with storage, Murphy beds, or dining tables that can extend when needed. These pieces adapt to your lifestyle instead of taking up permanent space.

This is especially important in apartments or smaller homes where there’s no spare room for bulky extras. By choosing furniture that does double duty, you cut down on clutter and still get what you need.

Build Vertical Storage

Instead of spreading everything out, the Brothers take storage upward. Floor-to-ceiling cabinets, tall bookshelves, or wall-mounted units keep things organized while leaving more floor visible.

In smaller bedrooms, they’ve even swapped out traditional closet doors for slimmer alternatives like sliding panels, which frees up walking space. It’s all about finding storage solutions that don’t make the room feel boxed in.

Create Zones in Open Spaces

In studio apartments or smaller homes, rooms often overlap. The Brothers suggest creating clear “zones” with rugs, lighting, or furniture placement. A couch facing one direction creates a living space, while a desk tucked into the corner defines a workspace.

This separation makes small homes feel intentional and less chaotic. It’s not about walls—it’s about using layout to carve out functional areas.

Add Built-Ins Wherever Possible

Built-in benches, shelving, or entertainment centers are some of the Brothers’ favorite upgrades. They use otherwise wasted corners and provide storage without bulky furniture.

Benches with hidden compartments or custom shelves around windows turn awkward spots into useful ones. These tweaks make a small space feel designed instead of cramped.

Keep the Flow Clear

A common mistake in small homes is overcrowding with furniture. The Brothers focus on maintaining clear walkways and layouts that allow easy movement. Furniture pushed against walls or arranged to open up pathways instantly makes a room feel bigger.

They also choose slimline pieces—like narrow consoles or armless chairs—that provide function without taking over the floor. Small design choices like this add up to a more breathable space.

Maximize Natural Light

Heavy curtains and bulky blinds shrink a room visually. The Brothers lean on sheer panels or shades that let in light while still giving privacy. Natural light is one of the easiest ways to make a small room feel more open.

They’ll also place mirrors strategically across from windows to double the impact of that light. It’s a cost-free trick that delivers a lot of payoff in tight spaces.

Think About Resale Value

One of their biggest points is making changes that help you live better but also boost resale. Small-space hacks like upgraded storage, modern lighting, and functional layouts make a home more appealing to buyers.

By thinking beyond your immediate needs, you not only make your small space more comfortable but also set yourself up for a better return when it’s time to sell.

*This article was developed with AI-powered tools and has been carefully reviewed by our editors.