Closets and Storage

Simplify with easy storage options

It seems like no matter how big your house is, it´s always a challenge to find enough storage. Some homes were designed with inadequate closet and drawer space so finding places to store things used on a daily basis is on ongoing challenge. Others are big enough and have storage space, but it´s hard to use because of access or location. And often, there isn´t enough storage because we just have too much stuff.

There are two things required in creating good storage around the house. The first is identifying areas that can be put to better use by adding closets and storage options from a broad array of possible solutions. The second, of course, is weeding through stuff and getting rid of anything that´s seen better days and moving it along to its next user or the trash heap.

When planning storage there are two simple rules to follow:

Rule 1. Design the storage close to the area of activity. This is common sense, but it´s easy for the content to outgrow the space and then get scattered throughout the house. Take art supplies for example. If your kids (or you) have creative hobbies like painting, collage, or scrapbooking then you know how fast the tools and materials proliferate. Designate the activity area, then design storage to accommodate ALL the materials. You´ll have to edit and throw out old broken stuff regularly. The benefit is a substantial cost savings if you don´t have to replace the photo mount because you can´t find it or don´t remember where you put it.

Rule 2. Grandma´s Maxim: A place for everything and everything in its place. Yeah, it´s homely and trite, but that makes it true. If an item doesn´t have a permanent home where it belongs, it floats around the house and is constantly underfoot. It´s a big time waster to keep moving stuff around and it makes it hard to clean. Seems like the house is never under control.

Hiring Closet and Storage Designers or Builders

If you need storage and don´t know where to start, a closet designer can help you organize your life and define storage needs. Some are also professional organizers who can help you clean out the junk, too. Naturally, you´ll want to check references and credentials and find a good fit for your needs, but in the long run, a pro can help you simplify your life so you can do what you enjoy.