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For many of us apartment-dwellers, storage space is almost always at a desperate minimum. Whether it’s negative closet space or a studio where you’ve got everything in one room, here are a few tips to help you rethink your space and rework your stuff:
* Conduct a space survey
A good way to start is to look first for hidden space you didn’t know you had. Now, most likely you won’t have any trap doors leading to unlimited storage space, but take an objective look. Spaces between things, behind things, above and below--all it takes is a little thinking along the “Am I utilizing the space I have correctly” lines and you’ll be surprised in what you might uncover.
* Practical “decoration”
An easy shelving system can be created by putting up shelves above doors and windows. Use some for books, some for nick-nacks--if you keep them neat, they’ll serve as decoration and something nice to look at. This is an easy solution for all sorts of extra room to stash that stuff you don’t need on a daily basis, but still want to have around.
* Suitcase stack
It might be hard to visualize, but a collection of vintage suitcases stacked on top of each other makes a great storage center. You can usually find these fairly cheaply at yard sales. Fill ‘em up and stack them (lying down) with the largest on the bottom and the rest on top in descending size order. Prop some photos on the top and you’ve got yourself a great little stand that’s creative and useful.
* Smaller than a breadbox
Another good yard sale idea is old breadboxes. If you shop around, you can find these beauties for $5-15. Get a collection in the kitchen and store the wine glasses in one, the beer mugs in another--like the suitcases they stack and are a fun way to spruce up the kitchen.
* Think fold down
If you haven’t got room for a kitchen table, how about one that folds down from the wall? When you need it, just pull it up, prop it, and you’re set to dine. When it’s not in use, you’ve got that much more room to move. No one really likes to eat every meal on the couch.
* Under the bed is a gold mine
Make the best of the space under your bed. If you’ve got enough closet space for your clothes, but a mini kitchen, there’s nothing wrong with storing the extra pots and pans under here, or even canned goods. Purchase some cardboard or plastic boxes and you’re set to go. Don’t let this become the black hole--use it!
* Dressers aren’t just for the bedroom
While we usually see dressers only in the bedroom, putting one in the kitchen or living room can be a great solution. Try painting it to suit the decor and make it look less bed-room-set like. Change the handles to funky knobs, add some color and you've got a perfect storage unit.
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