Clutter is an enemy that can insidiously work its way into every room of the home.
It can become particularly destructive in public spaces, where it can prevent one from inviting a friend over for coffee “because the place looks just dreadful.” Also, consider the bedroom, which should be a peaceful space from which to start and end each day, but instead has overflowing dresser tops and bedside tables.
That’s no way to live.
The mantra “a place for everything, and everything in its place” is all well and good, but what if there aren’t enough “places” for everything?
Join the reorganization revolution with its world of clever furniture, wall units, and other storage enhancements for every room in the home. The following tips and solutions will help everyone—from the small apartment dweller who needs to maximize every inch of space to occupants of large homes who want to de-stress and systematize their residence.
Live Large
Living rooms, great rooms, and family rooms don’t have to be minimalist perfect. In fact, a relaxed feel to these spaces adds warmth. The key is to achieve a casual feel with throw pillows, objets d’art, family mementos, and books.
The first step is to declutter visual spaces such as the fireplace mantle, built-in shelves, cubbies, and entertainment units. Take out all the items, and then put back half or even one-third of them. This adds depth to create the illusion that the room is bigger. The others can be stored away, with the décor rotated periodically to keep it looking fresh.
Double Duty
Wall-size entertainment units are a go-to solution. Whether they’re custom built-ins or ready-to-assemble DIY units, opt for one that combines open shelves or cubbies—for visual interest—with closed storage to hide electronics, décor presently not on display, extra magazines so they’re not falling off the coffee table, and other items that one wants at hand but out of sight.
Built-in benches can be run along a wall or used to create a window seat. Free-standing benches and ottomans that conceal storage underneath are great for everything from board games to seasonal throw pillows and throws, as well as a quick hidey-hole for kid’s toys.
A repurposed vintage dresser or a sideboard that doesn’t fit in the dining room will add drawers of storage as well as a convenient top surface. They can be left as is, or painted to match the décor. Got limited floorspace? Consider a hutch or vertical storage cabinet. Or opt for a curio cabinet with glass doors that reduces dusting while it displays family heirlooms.
All can do double duty as a convenient place to hide things when company is coming over.
Inside the Couch
Make the next couch a hidden storage style with seats that are easy to lift up. Some even come with storage armrests to hold remote controls and phone charging cords. Many reclining loungers also feature arm storage, and many pedestal styles feature ottoman storage as well.
Sophisticated Stairs
Under-stair storage is another growing trend that can range from easy DIY shelves to custom wooden cabinets that add a bespoke feel to the home.
An easy option that’s good for renters is to get a ready-to-assemble tiered cube or shelving unit that fits into the space. There’s a wide selection online, some of which feature baskets for more private storage.
Be aware that enclosed stairs may need to be opened up for these installations. A simpler option may be installing a full-size or half-size closet door to access this otherwise unused space.
Under-stair storage can be both creative and visually appealing. Bilanol/Shutterstock
Bodacious Beds
Beds with built-in, underbed storage options abound these days. Designs include cubbies for decorative storage baskets at the foot of the bed, full pull-out drawers, and beds that lift up to store a closet’s worth of clothing or linens.
But what if one isn’t ready for such a big purchase? Simpler solutions include under-bed clothes and linen storage bins, made from clear, soft-sided plastic and starting at less than $10. Hard-sided plastic storage bins are more expensive, but also more durable. Both are available in wheeled versions to make moving them a breeze. Wheeled wire-mesh styles allow airflow and are a popular choice for shoes.
Going Up
Overbed storage can be as simple as a wooden or metal multi-shelf unit that fits neatly around the mattress—they’re great for the kids’ rooms. Or, simply attach a shelf or two to the wall above the headboard.
More sophisticated options include ready-to-assemble overbed cabinets, headboards that have a built-in bookcase or enclosed storage cabinets, and bedside tables with bookshelves. Full around-and-over-the-bed storage systems offer the most space and organizational options.
But Wait!
While online, check out a bedside multi-pocket organizer that hangs next to the bed, between the mattress and box spring. They can hold a phone, charging cord, tablet, magazine, reading glasses, and other items that would otherwise clutter the bedside table.
Organize With Flair
Side tables are an inexpensive update when compared with an entire room refresh. Modern units offer clever options, including charging stations and wine storage.
Energetic Entries
Things get set down at the spot where one first enters the home—and pile up. The solution? A hall tree with a convenient bench with storage beneath, with coat hooks and cubbies above. Finishes are available to match the most elegant foyer or rustic mudroom.
Murphy’s Law
Live in a studio apartment or want to use a guest room as a home office? Consider a Murphy bed, which folds up into the wall to maximize floor space. They come in a variety of luxury finishes and can tilt up vertically or horizontally depending on the room’s dimensions.
Young Organizers
A DIY ready-to-assemble kid’s reading nook with a padded seat, bookshelves, and toy storage instantly transforms a child’s bedroom, playroom, or corner of the family room into a place of imagination and magic. It also helps youngsters develop organizational skills early on.
Sandy Lindsey
Author
Sandy Lindsey is an award-winning writer who covers home, gardening, DIY projects, pets, and boating. She has two books with McGraw-Hill.
