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In a tight housing market many home owners are increasing their proerties value and by transforming unused space into living areas.

According to AA Home Insurance, 20 per cent of homeowners have done this, at a cost of around £90 billion. The most popular conversion option was revealed to be the attic, with many people also turning their garages into living space and making “offices” in their garden sheds.

“Many homeowners relish turning unused or ugly areas of their homes into liveable rooms as it means more space for family and less dusty boxes and clutter,” said Janet Pell, head of home insurance at AA. “But it is important that you ensure you have the appropriate building regulations approval before going ahead,” she added. Self storage can provide an alternative to converting dead space, or be used in addition to a renovation project to create a more organised home

Home storage solutions are one way people can cut clutter in their homes.  Having less furniture in the master bedroom is becoming an increasing trend as people de-clutter their bedrooms. There are multiple choices, from simple wire shelving fixed to walls to closet built-ins that are furniture in their own right.  Although any room will benefit from shelving and storage, master bedroom closets are the most popular areas.  Many closets are separate rooms now, not a separate piece of furniture.  It’s an easy and economical way to double, if not triple your storage space for the same price as a new closet.  A built-in closet allows clothing rods and shelving to be at different heights, instead of the standard shelf on top of a clothing rod that barely can be reached.  This type of storage also offers space for organizing and keeping items out of sight. Some built-ins even offer a jewelry drawer to keep all accessories in one place.

Shelving and storage units also can take advantage of unused space near the ceiling, storing out-of-season or less-used items - an important consideration for small rooms or apartments.  Some built-ins offer tie racks, pull-out clothing hampers and even pull-down hydraulic rods for clothing stored near the ceiling to maximize space.

Remember the golden rule for small space decorating - keep things off the floor!