We all want to make the most of the space we have in our homes. One thing that stands in the way of creating space is the issue of storage; where do we put all of our stuff? It’s not only about finding storage space, but it is also about making that storage solution both functional and pleasing to the eye. With more and more of us moving to the city, and therefore living in closer quarters than we used to, creative storage ideas are popping up all over the place. We at Balustrade Components have collated some of our favourite ideas and inspirations…
1.Ceiling Height Shelving
There are several areas of ‘dead air’ commonly found in our homes. By this, we mean areas of rooms that are commonly not used for anything at all. One of these places is the areas of wall between the top of our standard units and the ceiling. So, if you are going to have shelving, use all the space you have and make them reach right up to the ceiling, and, whilst you are at it, right to the edges of your wall or alcove! This has a surprising impact on the amount of storage space you can get out of a shelving unit. 2.Create and Utilise Divisions
This is a wonderful trick, especially if you have a large and uninteresting room to play with. Divide up your space with walls made from open shelving units and display cabinets. These are cheap, easy to find and simple to construct. Instead of putting them flat to the wall, place them at protruding angles from the wall in order to not only create storage, but also to create sub areas in your large room. This is particularly good in a space such as a lounge/dining room, or a shared bedroom. These also help to create zones in a room whilst still allowing light and air to flow through freely.
3.Storage Tables
Most of us have coffee tables in our living rooms or side tables by our beds. All too often they are just that; tables. However, if you replace these with a vintage chest, a purpose-built storage table, or a small shelving unit, then you will increase your storage space without actually ridding yourself of any more floor space. This is also a fun opportunity to upcycle an old box or crate to create your own, home-made storage efficient coffee table!
4.Hooks
5.Headboard Drawers
The headboard of your bed is probably not the first place you would go to when thinking about adding storage to your home. However, it is a great place to add capacity for this very reason; it is not space you will already have taken up, or that you will miss once it has been utilised! You could build an entire shelving unit that reaches to the ceiling in place of your headboard, or even replace your headboard with a bed width drawer unit (the drawers facing outwards of course!)
6.Under Bed Storage
7.Under Stair Storage
Under the stairs! Yet another neglected area in our houses. It is true that many under stair areas do have a cupboard in place, but these are often not making the most of the space available. There are so many awesome solutions an ideas out there about how to create great under stair storage. Purpose built pull out drawers, mini office spaces, wardrobes, workshops, fold out dining tables… the options are endless. Utilise your under-stair space today!