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3 Sneaky Storage Spots
Your home has more room for storage than you think. Maximize every inch with these clever organizing solutions
A space that is maximized effectively is a work of art, and those who are able to do it with ease are what I like to call "spatial artists." For some folks, this gift comes naturally. But for those who find it more of a struggle, don't fret — there are plenty of tried-and-true techniques that will help you get the most out of any space. Here are a few ways that just may bring out your inner spatial artist.
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We're going to take a look at three main spaces in your home where you'll want to maximize space: walls, cabinets and the door interiors.
Walls
Take a look right now at the area above each door or entryway space in your home. A shelf can easily be placed up high to store home staples or display decor.
One of the best spots to place an over-the-door shelf: in the bathroom to stash toilet paper or extra towels. It usually goes unnoticed and works like a charm.
Walls
Take a look right now at the area above each door or entryway space in your home. A shelf can easily be placed up high to store home staples or display decor.
One of the best spots to place an over-the-door shelf: in the bathroom to stash toilet paper or extra towels. It usually goes unnoticed and works like a charm.
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This over-the-entryway shelf looks like it's showing off memorabilia and decorative items.
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I appreciate this shelf blending in with the color of the walls so the eyes don't necessarily stop to notice what's stored on it.
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Hooks are an oldie but a goody and cannot be used enough in my opinion. I love the classic look of hooks and their ability to be placed just about anywhere.
Notice the high shelf in this image. Not only is it functional, but the items placed on it make the space feel cozy — score!
Notice the high shelf in this image. Not only is it functional, but the items placed on it make the space feel cozy — score!
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| Now this is really maximizing space — an open shelf below the window for easy access to cookbooks. |
Open shelving happens to be one of my faves, right behind hooks, for maximizing space.
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in the office, use open shelving above any desk to house:
• Reference books
• A printer
• Magazine files for projects
• Decorative office supplies
• Reference books
• A printer
• Magazine files for projects
• Decorative office supplies
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| In this space, the white shelving helps to make the wall color pop while storing home office wares. What else can you think of to store on open shelving? |
by Just a Girl
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If you don't want to drill into your walls, metro shelving is a fabulous solution. While it's seen here in the garage, I like the look of metro shelving in the kitchen because of its chrome finish. You can also add clear mats so that items stand tall and are sturdy.
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Ikea is a great place to shop for chrome rails that can hang everything from kitchenware to jewelry. Going vertical never looked so good.
by Tina Kuhlmann
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This idea is genius for any crafter or gift giver. Dowels placed underneath a cabinet allow you to see your wrapping while accessing it with ease.
Cabinets
If you notice a lot of negative space in your cabinets, make sure to utilize the adjustable shelves.
• Take all the shelves out and organize items by category.
• Store the heavier, bulkier items on the bottom and place the first shelf about 1 to 3 inches above the tallest item.
• Take another category of items and again, place the next shelf above the tallest item.
If your cabinet isn't equipped with adjustable shelves, grab some inexpensive shelf risers (aka shelf helpers). You can find them at Target, The Container Store and Ikea.
If you notice a lot of negative space in your cabinets, make sure to utilize the adjustable shelves.
• Take all the shelves out and organize items by category.
• Store the heavier, bulkier items on the bottom and place the first shelf about 1 to 3 inches above the tallest item.
• Take another category of items and again, place the next shelf above the tallest item.
If your cabinet isn't equipped with adjustable shelves, grab some inexpensive shelf risers (aka shelf helpers). You can find them at Target, The Container Store and Ikea.
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by Al Williams
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| Home supply stores carry shelves that allow you to utilize every inch of cabinet space. They often come in wire or wood and are easy to install. Top picks: |
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Here's an idea: Remove cabinet doors where you can use the interior to show off your wrapping paper station, with dowels as organizers.
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| Shelf dividers work great for keeping items neat and filed. I've also seen small tension rods placed vertically that do the job just as well as custom organizers. |
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Doors
For those of us who like our stuff out of sight, going vertical on doors is the perfect option. Smaller items seem to work best on cabinet doors, as you don't want to overload the door or make it difficult to close.
For those of us who like our stuff out of sight, going vertical on doors is the perfect option. Smaller items seem to work best on cabinet doors, as you don't want to overload the door or make it difficult to close.
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Over-the-door organizers can pack bigger items and come in chrome, canvas or plastic.
Tell us: What other spaces in your home are go-to spots for maximizing space? Do you have any tools or tips for storing more stuff?
More:
Decorate With Intention: Clutter Clearing 101
How to Work With a Professional Organizer
Tell us: What other spaces in your home are go-to spots for maximizing space? Do you have any tools or tips for storing more stuff?
More:
Decorate With Intention: Clutter Clearing 101
How to Work With a Professional Organizer
Comments
keenz48 In UK I have already customised above the oven cupboard with a shelf organiser from Lakeland which fits perfectly.
12 months ago · Like
Ideabook published on April 18, 2012.
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