5 Easy Ways to Reclaim Personal Space in Tight Quarters
This blog post, written by Lisa Theriault, was originally published on Sixtyandme.com on May 28th, 2025. The version below has been shortened from it's original writing
I love my life. I’m grateful for good friends, family, my health, a cozy apartment with an ocean view—and yes, even the dog hair on my yoga pants.
I don’t miss the house I sold six years ago. No more leaky roofs or mowing the lawn. That said, adjusting to 973 square feet has come with its challenges, mainly a lack of personal space.
There’s no upstairs retreat, no quiet den to escape the blare of Formula One or the hockey playoffs. And while I adore my husband, we both need room to breathe. If you’ve ever felt like your home is closing in on you, trust me—you’re not alone.
Thankfully, with a few small changes, we’ve found ways to carve out space without creating conflict.
5 Easy Ways to Reclaim Personal Space in Tight Quarters
1. Set Noise Boundaries
Noise can trigger my anxiety, so we invested in Bluetooth headphones. Now my husband can enjoy his races, and I can enjoy the quiet.
2. Use Shared Amenities
Your building may have a lounge, craft room, or even a tucked-away nook you can claim for a few hours. Ours does, and it’s been a lifesaver.
3. Time Your Alone Time
When the race is on, I run errands, visit friends, or soak in the tub. He gets uninterrupted sports time, and I return refreshed.
4. Rethink the Balcony
Our balcony has become my retreat. With a coffee, my dog, and some potted plants, it’s my little slice of calm.
5. Turn the Bathroom Into a Spa
A bubble bath, soft music, and an audiobook—sometimes that’s all it takes to feel human again.
Give Yourself Permission
At first, I felt guilty needing space in such a small home. But creating even tiny moments of solitude has been good for both of us. It’s not about pushing anyone away—it’s about caring for yourself, too.
Let’s talk!
How do you find space and quiet in your day? Leave a comment below!