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Downsizing to a smaller living space can present quite the logistical challenge. I have done so in the last year and after decluttering and minimizing my new home, I find it to be refreshing and actually enjoyable to live in a smaller area. There’s a lot less upkeep and the place seems more inviting and intimate for entertaining.

Here are some tips for making the most out of a small living space.

1. Buy shelves. Shelves can be added above doorways, in closets and almost anywhere in the home to organize your life and display your art or daily necessities.

2. Lighten Up. Lighter colors give the illusion of more space. Try to stick with light, neutral paint colors and keep the ceilings white.

3. Remove Doors. Swinging doors obstruct views and take up precious space. Room them completely or replace them with track or pocket doors.

4. Buy furniture that does double duty. Ottomans and couches now have lids that provide extra store space. Try ikea.com

5. Streamline. Keep the paint color and flooring the same throughout your living areas and you create the illusion of more space.

6. Don’t forget outdoor living. If your living space is small and you have an outdoor area, treat it as an extended living and entertaining area and decorate accordingly.

7. Use the rule of threes. When decluttering your home, group your rooms’ contents into groups of three and select your favorite of the three and remove the other two. This is great rule to use when staging a home.

8. Utilities of scale. Almost every appliance now offers a smaller scale version. Invest in smaller refrigerators, coffee makers, vacuums, etc. to free up lots of extra space and don’t overwhelm a room.

9. Kiss. Keep it simple. Bold prints on furniture and window treatments close up a room more than anything and can be a distraction. Monochromatic design is easy on the eye and opens up the area.

10. Use bookcases creatively. Bookcases can double as tables, room dividers and buffets. Buy the appropriate size and height for your needs.

Labels: Active Living, Downsizing, Sustainable Living

Two thirds of the boomers would prefer to live in a rural location or a small town, according to recent surveys by the National Association of REALTORS.

Young adults leave town after high school or within a few years to seek work in a larger city with a stronger job base and greater career opportunities. Some rural towns have changed and survived by finding livelihoods other than agriculture. Perryville, Missouri, my hometown, has been able to entice small industries. Madison, Georgia is rich in southern history, Eureka Springs, Arkansas has grown around the big business of Christian “Passion Plays”, and other rural towns have the good fortunate to be located near attractive scenic areas.

Active Adults is a term commonly used to describe people over 55 who have lots of living left in them. They are healthy, productive and energetic. Where to retire now that the kids are gone, is paramount in people’s minds. Historically, as many as 50% of people move to a new home sometime in retirement. The desire to stay near the familiar is powerful, but is eventually outweighed by the promise of adventure, and an easier, relaxed lifestyle.

Active Adult Communities are specifically designed to offer the fun, adventure and the new relationships with like-minded people that young retirees want. Sun City in Arizona, created in the 1960’s, continues to attract thousands of active adults in communities around the country. An active adult community typically has something for everyone, sports galore, fitness and wellness services, and special interest clubs for any interest.

Small towns can offer all of this in a more authentic package. The people are friendly and they include children and young adults, as well as others our own age. Most of us nearing retirement age enjoy the spirit of young people and the inspiration they give us to enjoy each day. Look outside your big city, small towns still abound within a short drive of the city. One of those may be the perfect Active Adult Small Town.

Labels: Active Living, Senior Living, Sidekick Homes, Small Towns