3 Small Space Storage Solutions You Never Knew

3 Small Space Storage Solutions You Never Knew

Living in a small space can pose many storage challenges. For one, you may be considering getting rid of some belongings just to make more room. But before you do, try some of these unique storage solutions. With some innovative ideas to get you started and your own creative problem solving, you may find that you can keep a tidy, balanced space without letting go of the things you love.

Getting Started
The first step to great organization is to understand what makes smart storage. The key is keeping things you use categorized together and out of sight (or displayed in a thoughtful way), yet easily accessible every day. The best way to accomplish this is to identify unused space throughout your home and then find stylish, creative solutions for utilizing the space.

Solution #1: Think Vertical
Feel like there's nowhere else to go with your stuff? Try up! Putting overhead space to better use will help clear your furniture surfaces and everyday storage, like cabinets, thus helping your space feel more open and organized. Look around and identify what vertical space may have storage potential. Try adding shelving above a refrigerator or a floating shelf above a doorway. Add stackable boxes and bins to the top shelf of your closets to maximize use of the space all the way to the ceiling. You may also want to check out leaning bookcases that create not only a storage solution, but a stylish showcase of your treasures as well!

Solution #2: Go Down Under
Another great place to store things is under large pieces of furniture. Consider all the square feet under your bed! At your local home improvement store, you can find rolling storage totes that are made especially to stow beneath a bed. Once blocked from view by a bed skirt, you'll have plenty of extra storage without sacrificing a bit of living space!

For a more compartmental option, try a series of baskets under the perimeter of the bed. This is a great way to categorize less-used items like scarves and mittens when they're out of season or hats, belts and bags for special occasions.

The bed isn't the only place you can add storage space. Consider baskets under a hallway or entryway bench. These are great places for extra shoes, pet supplies and odds and ends. This same rule applies to living or family rooms. End tables or coffee tables with baskets allow additional storage; so cleaning up is a snap. You can also try an ottoman or coffee table that doubles as a stow-away space for keeping living room clutter like remotes, magazines and coasters under control.

Solution #3: Magnetize to Maximize
Try magnetic paint on kitchen or bathroom walls to store small items on the wall instead of letting them pile up on frequently used surfaces. Magnetic organization is a great way to keep your things off the counter yet still within reach. In the kitchen, use magnetic spice containers or add magnet strips to existing spice jars. In the bathroom, add magnets to the back of small storage boxes and fill them with everyday items like makeup, cotton balls or even your toothbrushes and toothpaste.


For more small space decorating ideas see 3 Ways to Make a Small Space Seem Bigger and Resizing for a Small Room Using Scale.

Friday, January 27, 2012 | No comment yet