Tips help homeowners make the best use of space; new floor covering offers alternative to vinyl

Making the best use of space is important no matter what size of house you live in, but for those in smaller homes, it’s essential. Luxuryhousingtrends.com users offer ideas on doing just that that aren’t just for those living in luxury homes.

One user recommends hiding washers and dryers that are out in the open, perhaps in the bathroom or kitchen, in a cabinet and covered with a countertop. Of course, the washer and dryer will have to be front-loading, and make sure to take measures to allow heat to escape from the dryer. But putting the appliances inside cabinets will also provide more counter space for whichever room they’re in, as well. More tips about organizing a laundry room are available at http://www.squidoo.com/laundryroom.

Another user suggests using a pull-out pot and utensil rack that fits in spaces between cabinets and slides in and out like a drawer. The pegs and panels are adjustable and allow you to hang whichever pots, pans and utensils that will fit in the space. The racks are available through www.rev-a-shelf.com.

Vinyl is not among recommended floor coverings these days, but “Plynyl” may cause homeowners to reconsider their flooring choice. According to the Plynyl Web site (http://www.chilewich.com/plynyl/plynyl.htm), the floor covering is a woven vinyl fabric that adds texture and color to a room and is reportedly durable and easy to clean. Plynyl tiles are 18 inches and bonded to a heavy-duty vinyl backing that is15 percent post-industrial recycled content and reinforced with a nonwoven ceramic mesh. Plynyl wall coverings and upholstery are also available.