I have no pity for New Yorkers who complain about their cramped, woodshed-sized apartments, because I moved here from Tokyo. I’ve been in bathtubs the size of washing machines, so small that you sit down with your knees against your chest. I’ve used bathrooms the size of linen closets, where you have to stand right next to the toilet in order to close the door. In these bathrooms, there’s no room for anything else but the toilet, so built right into the top is a small sink where you can wash your hands. Additionally, built into many toilets are bidets and air-dryers for your bottom, in case having a roll of toilet paper also exceeds your space limitations.

Thankfully, the Japanese are brilliant at finding space-efficient solutions for everything. Witness the Recycle Station from Like-It Co., Ltd. A pioneer in innovative, space-saving storage products, this company adheres to the motto, “Simple is Best”. The Recycle Station temporarily stores recyclable garbage, which encourages consumers to be more environmentally active. It’s also stylishly simple, with stainless steel swing panels and sturdy plastic construction. You still may not have the space for a roll of toilet paper, but at least your recyclables have a happy little home.