Simplify Your Space: 5 Steps to a Clutter-Free Home

In today's fast-paced world, a clutter-free home isn't just a luxury—it's a necessity for maintaining peace and productivity. If the thought of a cleaner, more simplified space excites you, you're in the right place.

Design by LISA KOOISTRA  Photography by BLYNDA DACOSTA

With these five practical tips, you won't even need to hire a professional organizer—you can achieve a clutter free home all on your own, without feeling overwhelmed.

1. Get Rid of Things You Don't Need

The first step in your decluttering process is to take a good look around your entire home and identify what no longer serves you. If this idea stresses you out and you feel like you have too much stuff, you're not alone—most of us are guilty of buying a thing or two (especially during the pandemic) that we definitely didn't need. This could be old clothes, unused gadgets, or even furniture that no longer fits your style. Keep only what you need and remember, less stuff means less stress.

Tips to Declutter:

• Donate clothes or sell items in good condition.

• Recycle or dispose of things that are no longer usable.

• Use the "one year" rule—if you haven't used it in the past year, it's time to say goodbye.

Focus on one area at a time, and don't try to tackle everything at once. Give extra attention to small spaces within your house, as they can easily become cluttered. Once you’ve freed yourself from the burden of clutter, it’s time to redesign your way to a more simplified style.

2. Create the Illusion of Space

The second step to simplify your home is to make good use of your space. We’re not all blessed with high ceilings, large windows, expansive open-concept floor plans, and spare bedrooms. Sometimes, you have to create the illusion of space, when the reality of actual space is just not possible.

Design by AMANDA SHIELDS  Photography by MIKE CHAJECKI

Creating space or the illusion of it can greatly enhance the feel of your home. Use storage solutions to keep your belongings organized and out of sight. Consider using light colors, wide-plank floors, and mirrors to make your space appear larger.

Here are a few space-saving ideas:

• Invest in multi-functional furniture like ottomans with storage compartments.

• Use wall-mounted shelves to keep the floor area clear.

• Remove items from tabletops and countertops to help accentuate your home’s architecture, furniture, and artwork

• Choose the right-sized flooring, like extra-long hardwood planks or large rectangular tiles, and install them in a parallel or diagonal fashion

• Pick a wall color that’s light and bright to create a greater sense of light and airiness into your home

• Keep window treatments minimal or, if possible, go without for a simple, modern look and feel

• Select furniture with exposed legs, such as couches, ottomans, chairs, and bedframes, to create an open, airy feel

• Add mirrors and reflective finishes, such as polished chrome hardware or high sheen fabrics, throughout the home to better reflect light

3. Follow the 60-30-10 Color Rule

Design by REBECCA HAY  Photography by MIKE CHAJECKI

Color plays a vital role in achieving a simplified home. A room with too many colors can feel busy and chaotic, whereas a space with too few colors can feel stark and lifeless. The 60-30-10 rule utilizes three colors—a dominant shade, a secondary shade, and an accent color.

How to Apply the 30-60-10 Rule:

• 60% of a dominant color (walls, large pieces of furniture).

• 30% of a secondary color (upholstery, rugs).

• 10% of an accent color (decor items, cushions).

4. Use the Same Flooring Throughout Main Living Spaces

Installing the same flooring throughout the main living area creates instant visual continuity, blurring the divide from room to room for a streamlined and simplified feel. Offering both beauty and function, a waterproof, engineered hardwood is just what you need for this tactic because it is suitable for both design-focused spaces like the formal living area or dining room and perfectly capable in work-heavy areas like the kitchen, family room, or foyer.

5. Invest in Small Updates That Improve Your Quality of Life

Convenience brings comfort. Choose a space and invest in one or two small updates that will make a positive difference in your day-to-day life.

Design by MICHELLE BERWICK  Photography by MIKE CHAJECKI

Small Updates to Consider:

• Replace old light fixtures with energy-efficient LED lights.

• Update cabinet handles and door knobs for a modern look.

• Add houseplants to bring life and freshness into your home.

• Invest in kitchen storage solutions such as a tiered organization system for your workhorse drawers.

Design by MICHELLE BERWICK  Photography by LARRY ARNAL

When considering what improvements to tackle, remember that not all updates need to be big, expensive, and overwhelming. Sometimes the simple things make the biggest difference.

Start Simplifying Your Home with Carpet One

Simplifying your home is more than just a trend; it’s a lifestyle choice that promotes well-being and productivity. By following these five steps, you can transform your space into a clutter-free sanctuary that feels both comfortable and inviting.

Ready to take the next step? Contact the design experts at Carpet One Floor & Home today and start your journey towards a simpler, more organized home.