LifeshoppingHome and GardenInterior Design

Strapped For Space? These 12 Cheap, Multifunctional Home Buys Will Sort You Out

When space is limited, it pays to have furniture that can do more than one thing for you.
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When space is limited, we've got no time for one-trick pony piece
Mixed Retailers
When space is limited, we've got no time for one-trick pony piece

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A time of flexible working, more freelancing, balancing jobs and childcare, and constantly having to adapt to rule changes... it’s safe to say the last few years have made us all masters of multi-tasking and making-do. And with that, we’ve been expecting more from our homes than ever before – no matter how small or cramped they may be.

So it’s not surprising that multifunctional furniture is most definitely in demand. And – contrary to popular belief – this isn’t just limited to super expensive ottoman beds, and storage sofas.

From dining tables that double up as desks to slick storage spaces hidden behind mirrors or within upholstered seats, these multifunctional furniture options are considerably more affordable, but still make great space-saving solutions for compact homes.

1
Argos
Enjoy additional storage as well as seating with this window seat
A stunning addition to any bedroom or lounge, this window seat will also give you an 88-litre lined storage area that’s perfect for those extra throws and blankets. Super elegant, I can’t get enough of its curved arms, regal buttoned quilting, and gold-clad feet.
£135 from Argos
2
Amazon
This decorative shelving ladder also has a built-in workspace
If you’re in need of another place to work, but don’t want to have to sacrifice any storage, then this ladder unit is a great bet. It’s got two shelves for storing books and ornaments, as well as a built-in desk that you can neatly and discreetly tuck a stool underneath.
£69.95 from Amazon
3
Dunelm
Pick a mirror like this one that has handy hidden shelves
With its simple and contemporary design, this mirror is bound to look brilliant in any bathroom or bedroom. But best of all, its hidden shelves are just the right height for standard skincare and cosmetics products.
£46.40 (was £58) from Dunelm
4
Amazon
Use this slimline shoe cabinet as your hallway console table
If shoes are always cluttering up your hallway, then definitely treat yourself to this slimline cabinet that’s capable of holding nine pairs of average-sized shoes. It’s available in multiple different colours and finishes, and has a small console tabletop that’s the perfect spot for your keys.
£46.99 from Amazon
5
Dunelm
This clever coffee table comes with two mini nesting versions
This modern coffee table would make a stylish addition to any living room, and also comes with two side table versions that nest neatly underneath when not in use, and will definitely come in handy when you have guests.
£79 from Dunelm
6
Amazon
Save bedside table space with this lamp that wirelessly charges devices
With this handy reading lamp, you can swap the big and bulky bedside table for just a small stall. It’s got a slimline design, five different colour temperatures to choose from, and also doubles as a wireless charging pad for your phone — so you can say goodbye to those messy cables.
£24.99 from Amazon
7
B&Q
This wall-mounted cabinet doubles as a drop-leaf desk
This handy drop-down desk can be folded up against the wall whenever you need a little extra space. I love that it has open shelving compartments for some extra storage, and that it’s also got a little chalkboard that’s ideal for shopping and to-do lists.
£84.99 from B&Q
8
Amazon
Enjoy TV dinners with ease thanks to this lift-top coffee table
Whether you’re a fan of having dinner in front of the TV, or sometimes like to work from the comfort of the sofa, this lift-top coffee table will definitely come in handy. Plus, it’ll also give you some extra hidden storage space.
£75.99 from Amazon
9
Dunelm
Gain some extra bathroom storage with this space-saving towel rail shelf
When you’ve got a small bathroom, you’ll want to nab any extra storage space wherever you can. This sleek matt black towel rail has the simple addition of a small shelf, which is the perfect size for storing your most frequently used toiletries.
£14.40 from Dunelm
10
Amazon
This freestanding mirror is also a hidden jewellery cabinet
As well as making the perfect full-length mirror, this clever cabinet also boasts 120 earring slots, 78 ring holders, 24 necklace hooks, and four separate shelves that are great for storing hair accessories, make-up, and more.
£84.99 from Amazon
11
B&Q
Pick an ergonomic dining chair that’s suitable for doing a day’s work
Okay so this one is personal for me. I work at my kitchen table, and am in desperate need of a chair that’s comfier than my bar stools, but equally won’t look out of place tucked into a corner when not in use. This ergonomic chair has been designed with supporting you through a full day’s work in mind, but looks like just a regular dining chair thanks to its lack of wheels.
£64 from B&Q
12
Amazon
Use this foldable piece of furniture as a console, dining table, or desk

And if you’re going to work at a table, then may I suggest making it this one? A real winner in the multifunctional department, it can be used fully folded up as a console, half folded out as a small table for two or a desk, and finally fully folded out to seat up to four.
£129.99 from Amazon
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