Many homeowners feeling a lack of space may consider decluttering or purchasing new storage furniture. However, professional organizer Caroline Caron Dhaouadi, founder of Homefulness, suggests that significant storage potential often exists in plain sight within existing homes.
"Vertical wall space and the backs of doors are the easiest wins – a few well-placed hooks, rails or over-door racks cost very little, take minutes to fit and instantly create storage where there was none," Dhaouadi stated. She also highlighted the tops of wardrobes and kitchen cupboards as prime areas for maximizing storage, particularly when using pull-out baskets or labeled boxes.
Under-Stairs Cupboards
Often becoming a disorganized repository for items like shoes, cleaning supplies, and tools, the under-stairs cupboard can be optimized with shelving or pull-out units to become a practical storage zone. This addresses the common issue of this awkwardly shaped space being difficult to manage.
Tops of Wardrobes and Kitchen Cupboards
These high and deep areas are frequently underutilized because items stored there are out of sight and difficult to reach. Dhaouadi recommends using pull-out baskets or labeled boxes that can be lowered as a unit, allowing for the full depth of the space to be utilized for items like seasonal decorations or spare bedding.
Vertical Wall Space
Instead of focusing solely on floor space, Dhaouadi emphasizes the untapped potential of walls. Shelving, hooks, pegboards, and wall-mounted rails can significantly increase storage capacity without consuming floor area, contributing to a calmer and larger-feeling room. This is particularly effective in kitchens, utility rooms, and children's bedrooms.
Backs of Doors
Every internal door, cupboard door, and wardrobe door presents a vertical surface that can be used for storage. Over-door organizers can hold a variety of items, from shoes and accessories to toiletries and cleaning products, often without requiring drilling.
Under the Bed
While many people utilize the space under their beds to some extent, Dhaouadi suggests that more can be stored here. Purpose-made storage boxes or vacuum-sealed bags can transform this area into an efficient space for bulkier items like seasonal clothing and bedding.
Insides of Cupboard Doors
The backs of cupboard doors, often ignored, can be surprisingly useful. Slim adhesive racks can hold items such as chopping boards, foil, cling film, or daily toiletries, freeing up shelf space and keeping frequently used items accessible.
Alcoves and Awkward Corners
Recesses, such as those often found on either side of a chimney breast, can be transformed with built-in or floating shelves. These areas can effectively store books, display items, and general storage.
Bedroom Headboards and Bedside Zones
Creative storage solutions around the bed can replace bulky bedside tables. Headboards with built-in shelving or wall-mounted shelves beside the bed can provide space for essentials like books and charging cables, reducing clutter.
Hallway Above Coat Hooks
The wall space above coat hooks in hallways is often unused. Adding a simple shelf can create valuable storage for items such as hats, gloves, and mail, helping to organize this high-traffic area without taking up floor space.
Utility and Under-Sink Areas
Deep cupboards beneath sinks can become cluttered easily. Tiered shelving and stacking drawers can convert these spaces into organized and usable storage for cleaning products and household essentials, making items easier to find.