Get more space, without moving house

But with interest rates on mortgages remaining inaccessible, moving somewhere bigger is out of the question for most of us. So if you’ve outgrown the space you’re in, what’s the answer to getting more room without having to remortgage to do so?

More than half of us are put off renovating because we don’t know where to start or believe it would be too expensive. But there are many innovative and cost effective measures that anyone can implement that can turn even the smallest home into a spacious haven.

Even simple things like painting your walls white and changing your lighting can create an illusion of space and for those wanting do a bit more, repositioning your stair case, or replacing an old plastic conservatory roof with glass can make a world of difference.

What about that unused spare bedroom or conservatory cluttered up with boxes and junk? Well a third of us say we actually have a room in our homes which we don’t do anything with.

And with two thirds of those surveyed for the study by Pilkington claiming that a lack of space is leading to tensions with those we live with, making use of that under-utilised space or taking on board a few space creating tips could be the best thing you do in 2011.

Listen to our podcast with TV architect George Clarke who gives his top tips on creating more space in your home without spending a huge amount of time or money in the process.