Sorting your storage is a real game changer.
With ample storage, your home stays organised, and life becomes stress-free. Homeowners often overlook storage solutions for areas beyond the kitchen. It's important to consider storage options for the entire home to maximise space and efficiency.
Do you have a no-shoes rule in your home? Where do the shoes pile up? By the front door? Here are some real solutions I've used with clients.
This home's entrance way features a large sideboard for easy shoe storage. An upholstered banquette across from it provides the perfect spot for sitting and removing shoes.
In a small home a bench seat with drawers for shoe storage was the solution. The bold graphic pattern on the seat cushions complements the graphic framed artworks on the opposite wall.
On a current project the family's jackets and shoes were on hooks just inside the front door, which made the open plan home look untidy. They took my advice and moved everything around the corner into the garage. This DIY project is super functional, especially with three hooks in each space for backpacks and jackets. It's a clever and practical solution.
Living rooms need storage too. Check out this townhouse project where we crafted a media unit and open storage to showcase their favourite heirlooms.
This custom designed media unit holds my clients audio visual equipment, (including the base speaker) The bonus, I designed a false back wall that hides all the cables and keeps everything neat. My design inspiration came from the French Country cabinet around the corner, maintaining a seamless design flow.
For those working from home this desk and media unit combo is perfect in the den. The drawers are handy for stationery, and the laptop when not in use. The cupboards fit a printer.
Not all storage has to be built-in.
These homeowners wanted to display books and travel mementos, so we chose open shelving. Positioned on either side of the TV and fireplace, the shelves create a balanced and symmetrical living room.
When we moved into our home, there was no decent storage. I've transformed our open plan dining and living space with practical storage solutions. This storage I designed to fit within a long alcove. Lots of drawers for everyday items, plus specific drawers for stationery, place mats, and tablecloths. At each end, a cupboard holds a safe and the other has power points and USB's for charging. Above, there's shelving for our library and decorative objects.
The cabinetry was installed ten years ago and it's been a game changer. Things get used, then put away, so everything has a place, and our home is always tidy.
These shoe drawers are designed to hold 36 pairs....
Ample storage helps keep your home organised and stress-free. Using a mix of drawers, cupboards, bins, and open shelves to store your items neatly. This way, everything has a place, making it easier to find things when you need them. With a good storage system, your home will look tidy and you'll feel more relaxed.
Need interior design help on your project?
I'm happy to help.
You can email me here.
You can call me on 0275 8888 32
or visit me in the studio.
TABLE Talks...
is a seminar held around the table in my design studio.
My Book Review
Essential Storage - Terence Conran
Sir Terence Conran (1931-2020) was a British designer, restaurateur, retailer and author of many fabulous design books.
First published in 2010 this book is full of fantastic storage ideas. But first Terence takes you through assessing and planning your storage, yes that means reviewing your possessions - where are you feeling the pinch? And getting rid of things - duplicates and impulse buys that don't work. Only then you can begin to consider the design process for your storage and how that works in the confines of your home. There's also a chapter that goes room by room. It's a small book and a great read.
Come in and tell me about your project
New builds - Renovations - Room Refresh
Meet me in the studio. Browse my interior design books for inspiration. Check out my extensive library of samples and materials from flooring to wall and window coverings and furniture.
14 Hardy Street Waterloo Lower Hutt
Studio business hours 9am to 5pm Monday to Friday.
After hours by appointment 0275 88 88 32.
(It's a good idea to ring me first as I can be out at a meeting...)
I'm always eager for feedback... (you can simply reply to this email).
Have a fab weekend.