[toemetoch]

I can relate to the friends "who feel sorry" bit. They don't seem to understand that different people value stuff in different ways.

If you want inspiration to make the best of limited spaces, google images for Japanese appartments. Lots of inspiration like using the steps of stairs as drawers, sliding furniture, efficient bookcases,... Here's an extreme example: http://unclutterer.com/2010/04/26/video-incredibly-efficient...