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Thursday, March 20, 2014

Guest post- How To Design A Home Storage Space!


This article is provided by Andrea Vollf.

How many times have you walked into a house that looked perfect from the outside and then, from the inside, all you could think of was “where am I supposed to store all my belongings?” Unfortunately this situation is becoming very common in today’s age due to the fact that many of the new homes are relatively smaller than the ones built few decades ago. And, if you live in areas of the country where the real estate price is prime like New York City or San Francisco, having the appropriated storage space is definitely something you should think about it.

If you live in a small place such a studio, you will probably have mastered the art of keeping only the essential while making most of every inch on your walls. Vertical storage is, without a doubt, the most efficient way to maximize the storage space in a room. In the kitchen for example, instead of having artificial plants or other decor on the top of your wall cabinets to fill that empty space between the ceiling and the cabinet, adding another cabinet is a good option. This way every inch of that wall will be used towards efficient storage.

In a home with stairs, look into custom build cabinetry under the stairs for more storage. They can be as deep as the staircase or on casters for easy access. Depending on your home layout, that empty space under the stairs can easy become an extension of your kitchen as people have installed appliances as well created a nice pantry and even a wine cellar! The under the stairs space is also a great area to create a home-office or even an arts and crafts station for the kids as you have plenty of room for shelves and cabinetry.

When creating such a space, think of functionality, closed cabinets for maximum storage and open shelves for easy access. Consider using the wall space between the desk and the cabinet or shelf to store craft tools that are used every day or make it a message center to help you to keep organized throughout the day. Instead of a task lamp, opt for under cabinet lighting as it will give you more room on your desk to work on.

Furthermore, an under the stairs space can also be converted into a nice reading nook, a small mudroom, and even a space to store your shoes or, depending on where you live, your winter clothes.

Besides utilizing the space under the stairs, you should think of how the space under your bed is used. Do you have a traditional bed (mattress, box spring and bed frame) or is your mattress sitting on something else? Creating under the bed storage is another great way to make most of your space. 

Nowadays, you can find amazing beds with underneath storage for sale. If you are not so sure where to go, start looking at companies like West Elm, Crate & Barrel, and Pottery Barn as they offer a nice selection of storage beds. Available in different sizes and styles, the storage bed will certainly be a huge add-on to your room.

When it comes to accessory and functionality, one of my favorite items to any living space is the storage ottoman. Versatile, the storage ottoman can give you a storage space and an extra sitting spot. It also serves as a nice end table for your living room, as well as a footboard in your bedroom or a place to sit while getting dressed in your walk-in closet or bathroom. For more storage, consider replacing your coffee table with large storage ottoman. Add fun to any room by playing with colors or for a more sophisticated look, simply go neutral. 

If you like to travel or if you are a fan of old world design, consider creating an end table made with stackable trunks. It will not only character to the room, but it will also provide you with extra storage space while creating an unique conversational piece. After all, everything deserves a place to be.

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