Home Storage

A beautiful home functions well. Part of a functional home is how it is organized. Getting organized has a lot to do with how you choose to store your belongings not just with knowing where things are in your home. Getting creative with home storage always gets me excited and gives me a sense of satisfaction when I have re-organized an area in my home to allow more ease of function. Some people may think its a waste of time to get really organized but when you have a small space/home this is very important. Making things accessible and aesthetically pleasing can be a challenge but this is where we can get creative.

Storage and organization can be a life long pursuit. Functions of certain areas change over time so your storage changes. I've watched my Mother change her storage and re-organize areas in her home over the years. She usually focuses on one area at a time.

Which is what I do too. Make a list of the areas in your home that you think might need some work. Tackle one at a time.

Some of my recent areas have included: Laundry closet, I cleaned out all of our stuff to make room for a washer and dryer...what the closet was intended for. Desk Area, to incorporate my jewelry making supplies, our computer, and desk stuff into one area.

There are some common overlooked areas for storage I'd like to share. Get creative!

Back splash in the kitchen: Magnetic Strips for knives and/or kitchen utensils, spice shelf or rack attached to the back splash takes advantage of space.

Above the toilet in the Bathroom: Shelf for over the toilet (this one is a lifesaver for me), or attached wall shelves for towels and other bathroom supplies.

Under the Bed: Pull out drawers on wheels for easy access to extra clothes/shoes or seasonal items.

Under Night stands and End Tables: For end tables that are open underneath, put a basket or box under the table for storing blankets, extra pillows, or sofa bed linens. This one is also a lifesaver for me, keeps all my throws off the sofa.

Side of the Fridge: The fridge can look really cluttered (mine does) but the fridge can store more than just papers. Magnetic hooks for oven mitts, hand towels, or other kitchen utensils. The magnetic baskets and holders that stores have around this time of year to use in school lockers work well for shoring coupons, pens, etc.

Foyer/Entry way: This area can pile up with all sorts of items or it can be barren cause no one ever thinks about it. A storage console for shoes, a charging station for cell phones, keys, book bags, etc. Incorporate interesting art and decor near areas of storage so it doesn't feel like a plain storage area.

Most storage solutions can be found by looking up! Look to the walls and large areas of unused space for storage solutions. And last but not least, ask others for help with ideas. Sometimes we need help with seeing a solution.