Design Notes
What to do when you don’t have the luxury of square footage? How can you create storage when there is not a lot of room, to begin with? Can you make small spaces work for you? These are good questions that we have helped our clients answer numerous times. While it may present more challenges than a larger home, it is possible to have the necessary storage for you to keep everything you need on hand. Small is not bad; in fact, it comes with multiple benefits, and a good design can help you maximize the space you do have to build a home that is exactly right for you. Let’s talk about some creative storage solutions for small spaces.
Wall Space
Walls are the one thing every house has in common, and they can have the greatest potential to provide effective storage solutions to your home. Think of it as a clean slate that you can fill with whatever you need to store the essentials, especially the items you use every day.
- Hooks: This is a simple way to utilize the space near the entry, perfect for hats, coats, and even backpacks. It keeps items off the floor and within easy reach for the quick in-and-out traffic flow. Pair with a bench, and you have an immediate mini drop zone.
- Floating shelves: Whether in a kitchen, laundry room, or home office, floating shelves are a great design tool for storing needed items. Adding decorative boxes can give the shelves a clean look and add storage.
- Cabinets: A wall of cabinets means increased storage for items of multiple sizes, but keeps everything looking neat and put away. Consider adding floor-to-ceiling cabinets in a bedroom or home office to maximize your space.
Often overlooked, walls can give you the extra storage space you need and free up other areas of the home.
Storage Bins
Storage bins can be your best friend when looking to maximize your current layout. Coming in a large variety and sizes, they can contribute to not only storage but the aesthetics of the room.
- Baskets: From oversized to narrow, baskets add warmth to any space with their natural feel and look. They are perfect for storing blankets, shoes, and towels in the bedroom or living room, and towels in the bathroom.
- Containers: Their stackability and varying sizes mean they can provide storage and organization in many areas of the home. Closets and under the bed can now be fully utilized because everything is organized by category and is easy to access.
- Boxes: Decorative boxes can add a pop of fun to any space and provide a unique storage opportunity. They can be put under beds or sit elegantly on a shelf and used for a variety of purposes.
- Glass jars: Because glass is a natural material and goes with just about any style, glass jars are the perfect way to store everyday items in multiple areas of the home. Place cotton balls, hair ties, or Q-tips neatly away on the counter, or keep your flour and sugar on a kitchen shelf. You can even incorporate them into the design while still gaining storage.
Storage can come in a variety of options and suit a myriad of design styles. Get more creative ideas from Better Homes and Gardens here.
Drop Zone
No matter the size of a home, a drop zone can be made to accommodate any space effectively. Having a few hooks above a simple bench with decorative baskets or boxes immediately provides storage in the entryway without obstructing traffic flow. Floating shelves are another great option above a bench; you can lay important items such as keys or letters that need to be mailed right by the front door. A drop zone is always an effective way to give you more space without consuming too much square footage. Browse our gallery of drop zones to see the many options available.
Furniture
When space is limited, it is always best to choose furniture pieces that can double for storage. By selecting pieces that serve multiple purposes, you can gain the extra space you need without compromising the room’s design.
- Coffee tables: They are a great item to have in the living room, but a coffee table with a hollow compartment is even better. DVDs, remote controls, and even blankets can easily fit inside, giving you access to them any time you need them, but out of sight when not in use.
- Dresser: Every bedroom needs a dresser, but what about using one instead? Dressers can be purchased at a similar height and give you a place to put your clothes and your alarm clock.
- Floating vanities: This is a great option for the bathroom because you get the vanity you need with a bonus area for storage. Using baskets or decorative boxes underneath keeps needed items within reach but tucked away until you are ready to use.
Always think multi-functional when shopping for furniture. Every piece should have a purpose, and more than one is optimal.
Maximize Corners
Kitchens tend to have corners that are underutilized. A well-planned shelf or narrow cabinet can use up all of the space in a corner, rather than letting it go to waste. Including a blind corner that pulls out means you can access the items easily, but they can be put away, too. Open shelving is another great option that prevents the space from looking cramped but still allows you to gain more storage. Floating shelves are always elegant, and you can put things such as cookbooks and everyday items, like measuring cups.
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Walker Woodworking 
Walker Woodworking