Storage Solutions

Declutter First: Why It Matters

Before diving into new storage solutions, take time to declutter. Clearing out what you no longer need makes it easier to create a space that’s truly organized and efficient.

Sort items room by room into categories like “keep,” “donate,” “sell,” or “discard.” This reduces the amount you need to store and ensures that everything you keep has a purpose and a place. Remember, the goal isn’t to hide clutter — it’s to build a home that’s functional, streamlined, and easy to enjoy.

Maximize Space by Thinking Vertically

Floor space isn’t the only option — using vertical space can dramatically boost your home’s storage capacity.

Install shelves to store books, decor, or kitchenware. Add hooks for bags, hats, and utensils to free up drawer and counter space. Try hanging organizers, like over-the-door racks or pocket organizers, to keep essentials within easy reach in closets, bathrooms, and pantries.
By looking up, not just around, you can create smart storage without crowding your rooms.

Double Up with Multi-Functional Furniture

Smart furniture choices can make a big difference, especially in smaller spaces. Look for pieces that offer hidden storage, like ottomans with compartments, coffee tables with shelves, or beds with built-in drawers.

A storage ottoman can hide blankets and pillows, keeping your living room tidy, while a bed with drawers frees up closet space. Multi-functional furniture helps you stay organized without sacrificing style or comfort — perfect for making the most of every square foot.

Hidden Storage

Hidden storage solutions are perfect for keeping your home organized while maintaining a clean and uncluttered look.

• Benches with built-in storage compartments are great for entryways, mudrooms, or at the foot of a bed.

• Ottomans with removable tops can serve as a footrest, extra seating, and a place to store blankets, magazines, or remote controls in the living room.

• Stair drawers are an excellent solution for homes with limited space, providing a discreet yet highly functional storage option.

• Flat, rolling bins under the bed can be used to store off-season clothing, shoes, or bedding.

Upcycled Containers

Upcycling containers is a sustainable and creative way to add storage to your home.

• Glass jars are perfect for storing dry goods in the pantry, like pasta, rice, or spices. They can also be used in the bathroom to hold cotton balls, Q-tips, or bath salts.

• Metal cans, once cleaned and painted, can be used as desk organizers for pens and pencils, in the kitchen for utensils, or even as plant pots.

• Old wicker or wire baskets can be upcycled into stylish storage for blankets, towels, or even firewood. They add a rustic or vintage feel to a room and can be easily moved around as needed.

• Hang baskets on walls to create floating storage for magazines, kitchen herbs, or bathroom essentials.

• Stack old suitcases to create a unique storage unit that doubles as a side table. They are great for storing seasonal clothes, blankets, or memorabilia.

Repurposed Furniture

Transforming old or unused furniture pieces into new storage solutions is a great way to save money and add a personal touch to your home decor.

• Repurpose an old dresser as a TV stand with additional storage for electronics and gaming consoles. You can remove some drawers to create open shelving for media equipment.

• A tall, open bookshelf can serve as a room divider in a studio apartment or large living area, providing storage and creating separate spaces.

• An old kitchen or bathroom cabinet can be repurposed into a stylish shoe storage unit. Add shelves or dividers to create cubbies for different shoe types.

• An old changing table can be repurposed into a craft storage unit with bins and drawers for supplies.

Rolling Carts

Rolling carts are a versatile storage solution that can be used in various rooms to provide flexible, movable storage.

• In the kitchen, rolling carts can serve as additional counter space, a portable island, or storage for spices, cookbooks, and utensils. When not in use, they can be rolled into a corner or closet.

• Use a rolling cart in the bathroom to store towels, toiletries, and cleaning supplies. This is especially useful in small bathrooms where cabinet space is limited.

• A rolling cart can be a portable office, holding stationery, files, and a printer. In a craft room, it can store supplies like paints, brushes, and fabrics, and be moved around as needed.

• Repurpose a rolling cart as a stylish bar cart for entertaining. It can hold bottles, glassware, and cocktail-making tools and be easily rolled to where the action is happening.