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Interior designers have plenty of tricks for maximizing space and keeping a home organized. From clever shelving to hidden storage solutions, these strategies make a big difference in both style and function. Whether you’re working with a tiny apartment or a large home, there’s always a way to optimize your storage. Here are 25 storage solutions that designers swear by for a stylish, organized space.
1. Overhead Loft Storage
In spaces with high ceilings, designers often turn to overhead loft storage. This can be used in bedrooms, living rooms, or even garages to store seasonal items, luggage, or rarely-used belongings. By utilizing the overhead space, you free up room below, keeping the area organized and open.
2. Under-Stair Storage
For homes with stairs, the space under them is often overlooked. Under-stair storage can be a game changer, offering room for everything from shoes to books or even a small home office. Custom cabinets or pull-out drawers are often used to maximize this hidden area, making it a favorite choice for interior designers working in homes with multiple levels.
3. Vertical Storage Ideas
When horizontal space is limited, designers often turn to vertical storage solutions. Tall shelves, cabinets, or hanging organizers make use of empty wall space. Whether it’s a towering bookshelf or a high-mounted coat rack, vertical storage maximizes space and ensures that everything has its place.
4. Hidden Storage in Furniture
One trick many interior designers use is incorporating hidden storage into furniture. Think coffee tables or ottomans with lift-up tops or drawers. These pieces allow for quick and easy access to your things without compromising the room’s design. It’s a fantastic solution for storing extra blankets, magazines, or even electronics out of sight.
5. Modular Storage Units
Modular storage units are customizable and can be adapted to suit different needs. Designers love these pieces for their versatility and scalability, as they can be used to store everything from books to electronics to art supplies. They can be rearranged as your storage needs evolve.
6. Built-In Shelves
When you have the opportunity to renovate or remodel, built-in shelves are a go-to solution for designers. These custom installations are tailored to your space and provide a clean, organized look. They can be used to store everything from books to electronics or even as a display area for decorative items.
7. Closet Organizers
Maximizing closet space is crucial for keeping a home organized. Closet organizers, like hanging racks, bins, and hooks, help create a system for clothes and accessories. Designers often suggest adjustable shelving systems, which can grow or shrink depending on your storage needs.
8. Kitchen Drawer Dividers
Keeping kitchen drawers neat can be a challenge, but drawer dividers are a game-changer. They help organize silverware, utensils, and small gadgets, preventing everything from becoming a jumbled mess. Interior designers use these in both small and large kitchens to keep counters and drawers clutter-free.
9. Pantry Pull-Out Drawers
Pantries can quickly become a place for chaos. Pull-out drawers, designed to hold food containers or canned goods, are a smart storage solution that offers better accessibility and organization. These drawers allow you to easily find what you’re looking for without digging through the entire pantry.
10. Custom Cabinets with Hidden Compartments
Custom cabinets are often designed with hidden compartments that conceal clutter and streamline the look of the room. Whether it’s a hidden wine rack or a pull-out garbage can, these spaces provide extra storage while maintaining a clean and minimalist aesthetic.
11. Wall Hooks and Pegboards
Wall hooks and pegboards are perfect for organizing bags, coats, or even kitchen utensils. Designers often use them in mudrooms, kitchens, or entryways, where quick access to everyday items is necessary. These versatile storage solutions can be arranged to fit any space and style.
12. Under-Cabinet Storage
In kitchens and bathrooms, under-cabinet storage is an often-overlooked space that can be used for much more than just cleaning supplies. Adding pull-out trays, lazy Susans, or hanging racks helps designers maximize this area. It keeps items easily accessible while maintaining a clean look.
13. Hidden Laundry Hampers
A hidden laundry hamper is another favorite storage solution for interior designers. These hampers can be built into cabinets or walls, keeping your dirty clothes out of sight. It’s a simple but effective way to maintain cleanliness and order in a space.
14. Over-the-Door Storage
Over-the-door storage is a smart solution, particularly in smaller spaces. From over-the-door organizers to hooks and racks, this often-unused space can be turned into a valuable storage area. Designers recommend this for organizing everything from shoes to cleaning supplies.
15. Floating Nightstands
In bedrooms, floating nightstands are an excellent way to save space. These wall-mounted pieces provide storage without taking up any floor space, giving the room a more open, airy feel. They’re perfect for keeping essential items like books, lamps, or electronics right where you need them.
16. Corner Shelves
Corners are often the most underused spaces in a room. Corner shelves make great use of these areas, offering storage without interrupting the flow of the room. They can be used for plants, books, or other small decorative items, adding both style and functionality.
17. Magnetic Storage Strips
Magnetic storage strips are a clever way to organize metal items like knives, tools, or even small kitchen gadgets. These strips can be mounted on walls or under cabinets, freeing up drawer space while keeping items easily accessible. Interior designers love them for their practicality and sleek design, making them a smart addition to any kitchen or workspace.
18. Stackable Storage Bins
For designers working with small spaces, stackable storage bins are a great option. These bins come in various sizes and can be stacked on top of each other to store everything from toys to seasonal clothing. Stackable bins provide a flexible and efficient way to store items while maximizing vertical space.
19. Hidden Desk Storage
For home offices, hidden desk storage is a must. Many desks come with built-in drawers or secret compartments to store office supplies and documents. This type of storage helps reduce desk clutter while keeping everything you need close at hand.
20. Sliding Door for Concealed Storage of Sports Gear
Sliding doors are a great way to conceal sports equipment in a stylish way. These doors can hide gear like bikes, skis, or sports balls in a closet or custom cabinet. Designers recommend this solution to keep clutter out of sight while maintaining easy access to your gear. It’s perfect for home gyms or storage rooms.
21. Multi-Level Shelving Systems
Multi-level shelving allows you to store a variety of items in a compact, organized manner. These systems are great for living rooms, offices, and even bathrooms, where space is at a premium. Interior designers often recommend these to help keep your belongings organized and accessible.
22. Under-Bed Storage
The space under your bed is often underutilized. Interior designers recommend adding storage bins or drawers beneath the bed for seasonal items, extra linens, or shoes. With the right setup, you can keep your room tidy without taking up extra space elsewhere.
23. Storage Ottomans
Ottomans with hidden storage provide an excellent place to store extra blankets, pillows, or even toys. These pieces offer the perfect combination of style and function, allowing you to store items away while also adding comfort and seating to a room.
24. Garage Storage Solutions
For spaces like garages or basements, storage systems like overhead racks and wall-mounted shelves are essential. These solutions keep seasonal items, tools, and sports equipment neatly organized and out of the way. Designers recommend maximizing vertical space in these areas for better accessibility.
25. Under-Cabinet Pull-Out Trash Bins
To maintain a clean and organized kitchen, many interior designers incorporate under-cabinet pull-out trash bins. These bins are hidden within cabinetry, allowing for a discreet and convenient place to store trash and recycling. This storage solution keeps kitchen spaces tidy while making waste disposal easily accessible.
Game-Changing Storage Tips
Interior designers use creative storage solutions to keep spaces organized. From hidden compartments to multi-functional furniture and vertical storage, these strategies will help you optimize any room. These tips ensure your belongings are stored neatly while maintaining a stylish look, with techniques that work well even in the most compact spaces.
