Sydney property stylist Justine Wilson, who recently worked on the latest season of TV show Space Invaders, shares her top six ways to add much needed storage space around the home. From simple dual-purpose ottomans to storage sofas, vertical shelving and clever but cute boxes and tubs, there’s an option for every room.
“With the start of a new year, it’s always nice to declutter and get your home refreshed and reorganised. Over the past year, storage options and maximising space has been a number one priority for many of my clients due to the pandemic increasing the amount of time spent at home, or the new norm of working from home. Add to that, a lot of impulse online shopping items that need to be stored away!” says Justine.
Below are her favourite easy and cost-effective ways to add extra storage and function to the home:
Storage ottomans
These are very cost effective and are a great multifunction furniture item. A storage ottoman can range from a small round or square size (which can also double as a foot stool) to longer rectangle or large round shapes (that can be used at the end of a bed, as extra seating or as a coffee table).These are great for storing extra seasonal clothing or toys.
Add vertical storage
This is something we tend to overlook but it can really double your storage space.Options include, tall bookshelves, floating shelves or even just hanging hooks. You can have your coats and jackets up off the floor, or display your treasured mementos, books or photos on shelves. A nicely styled bookshelf can also really tie a room together and is a great way to maximise your space and keep all your knick knacks contained in one area.
Sofa beds, storage sofas or storage beds
These are also another great way to add extra function and storage, they often have a storage compartment for the bed linen too or can hide any bulky items required. A storage sofa will convert your living room to a guest room instantly, and a storage bed will help store any general clutter such as boots, Christmas decorations or linen.
Cute baskets, boxes or tubs
Perfect for hiding any loose clutter or messy items, such as electrical chargers, cords, paperwork, or toys. They come in so many styles from wicker, fabric, metal, or plastic that you will find something to suit your overall decor. For larger floor standing baskets, you can store extra throws or cushions, or even slide tubs under sofas or beds. For medium size boxes, arrange artfully on shelves. Smaller baskets are great on coffee tables to contain remotes, pens, and coasters. Grouping items in one place will always eliminate visual mess.
Closed storage furniture
Items like sideboards, buffets, tv units or chests of drawers with drawers or cupboards mean you can contain any messy items neatly behind closed doors. This will make your home look neat and clutter free. These stand-alone furniture items are great as they can be moved from room to room as needed, and as your home evolves over time.
Inbuilt storage
Pantries, wardrobes, cupboards, or study zones can help you to keep all your items located in one central designated area. There are many cost-effective flat pack options at Ikea, Fantastic Furniture and Bunnings that are easy to assemble but will greatly increase your ability to store daily items and help you have a set zone for set items.
