AD | Collaborative post
Feeling like your home needs a refresh but don’t have the budget for a complete overhaul? You’d be surprised how much a simple rethink of your storage solutions can transform your space. Often, a cluttered home feels cramped and uninviting, regardless of its size or style. By strategically focusing on storage, you can declutter, create visual breathing space, and ultimately refresh your home decor without going to the expense and time needed for actual renovations.
Decluttering: The First Step
Before investing in new storage solutions, take time to declutter. This step is vital. Be honest with yourself about what you truly need and use. Anything unused, broken, or duplicated should be donated, sold, or discarded. Anything loved but unused can be stowed away in a self storage unit. Using a storage space for decluttering is an underused but powerful ally. Clearing out all the unwanted/unused items is liberating. Once done, you’ll wonder why on earth you didn’t do it sooner!
Consider these tips if you’re struggling to part with stuff:
- The 20/20 rule: If you can replace an item for under £20 within 20 minutes or so, it’s probably not worth keeping. Don’t take this too literally – it’s just a guide.
- Seasonal storage: Designate a space for storing out-of-season clothing, decorations, or other items – self storage is a godsend for seasonal items.
- Digital declutter: Don’t forget about your digital space! Delete unnecessary files, photos, and emails to keep your computer efficient too.
In the future, consider the one in, one out rule: For every new item you bring into your home, remove a similar one. This prevents future clutter build-up, although obviously doesn’t apply to collections or if you’re building up a supply.
Rethinking Storage
Once you’ve decluttered, you can start implementing new storage solutions. The key is to choose solutions that are both functional and aesthetically pleasing, enhancing your home’s overall style.
These ideas are popular, relatively inexpensive and easily available:
- Open shelving: Open shelving is a stylish and practical way to display your favourite items while keeping them organised. Consider using baskets, boxes, or decorative containers to keep shelved items neat and visually appealing. They work in every room in the house.
- Built-in storage: If you’re renovating, consider incorporating built-in storage such as wardrobes, drawers, or shelving units. This maximises space and creates a seamless look.
- Multi-functional furniture: Ottomans with storage, coffee tables with drawers, and beds with built-in storage offer functionality and style. They cleverly conceal clutter while adding to your home’s aesthetic.
- Vertical storage: Make use of vertical space with tall bookcases, wall-mounted shelves, or hanging organisers. This maximises storage capacity without taking up valuable floor space.
- Hidden storage: Use hidden storage in spaces such as under the bed, in the cubby hole under the stairs, or in decorative chests, suitcases and trunks.
- Repurposed items: Get creative by repurposing or upcycling items you already own. Old suitcases can become unique storage ottomans, while decorated boxes can hold a range of stuff from books, art supplies or small toys.
Harmonise Style and Function
When choosing storage solutions, consider how they integrate with your home’s existing style. Match the colour, material, and design of your storage to complement your decor. For example, woven baskets can add a rustic touch, while sleek, minimalist containers create a modern feel. Remember, storage should be stylish!
Maximise Impact in Different Rooms
Vary the style and approach slightly in different rooms to match the ways the rooms are used. Consider these ideas:
- Living Room: Use elegant storage ottomans, coffee tables with drawers, and decorative baskets to conceal clutter.
- Bedroom: Invest in a bed with built-in storage, use under-bed containers, and incorporate stylish wardrobes.
- Kitchen: Make use of drawer dividers, spice racks, and pantry organisers to keep your kitchen essentials neatly organised.
- Bathroom: Use over-the-door organisers, wall-mounted shelves, and storage baskets to maximise space and keep toiletries tidy.
By thoughtfully updating your storage, you can achieve a dramatic refresh of your home decor without major expenses. Decluttering creates a sense of spaciousness, while modern domestic storage solutions, coupled with a self storage unit for the overflow, enhances the overall aesthetic. You’ll end up with a more organised, inviting, and visually appealing home that feels fresh and spacious and is uniquely yours.