MAXIMISING SPACE: STORAGE SOLUTIONS FOR BUSY HOMES
If there is one thing that connects all the interior projects I’ve worked on, it’s the desire for more storage space. We all have items that we need and love, yet, we don’t always want them out on display. So, how do we keep our homes organised and functional when cupboards are limited? In this article, I share 5 storage solutions for busy homes to maximise space.
1. Optimise Cupboard Space
Let’s start by optimising the available cupboard space. I often see redundant space which could be better utilised by:
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Installing additional shelves – this saves you from stacking and makes it easier to see and retrieve items that you have stored.
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Fitting tension rods – these are cheap to buy and require no screws, so it’s an easy way to install a pole to hang items from.
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Placing a Lazy Susan inside – this rotating base saves you from stretching to reach items and makes better use of the back of the cupboard.
So, take a look to see where you could optimise cupboard space in your home.
2. Use the Space Under the Stairs
Most homes include a staircase, which means valuable storage potential in the void beneath. Now, it’s a bit of an awkward shape, so you need to plan the design and it may require bespoke fittings, but fresh thinking can transform the area. How about:
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A library and reading nook with hidden space for blankets or toys.
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A cloakroom to pack shoes away, hang coats and store hats, gloves, sunglasses & dog leads.
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The ideal spot to stand your TV or music system and collection of vinyl records.
I’ve also seen some wonderful adaptions to lower stairs, which have been made into drawers. I’d recommend a professional joiner if this is your plan, as it’s advanced for a DIY project!
3. Make More of Doors
Let’s start at the top. The wall above the door frame is a prime location for shelving. You might opt for narrow shelves to display meaningful items or a wider option on which storage baskets can sit.
The back of doors also have scope to provide storage solutions. You can add narrow shelving, pinboards, pegboards or hooks to solid wood doors to extend storage space. For other types of doors, there are storage options that clip over the top of the door and hang down.
4. Get Creative with Nooks & Alcoves
Does your home have small nooks and alcoves which are unused as standard furniture doesn’t fit? There are some fantastic slimline options on the market, including narrow pull-out pantries for the kitchen or storage for the bedroom.
Bespoke joinery is a smart—albeit sometimes pricey—investment that can completely transform how a home functions and feels. Custom-made cupboards and shelves, for instance, can be built into the alcoves beside a fireplace, turning awkward or underused spaces into stylish and practical storage for toys, board games, books, family paperwork, or even a cherished record collection. These shelves also offer a perfect opportunity to bring personality into a room through colour, texture, and carefully chosen decor like artwork, baskets, and plants.
In bedrooms—especially attic rooms where sloped ceilings can limit standard furniture—bespoke wardrobes with tailored hanging rails and shelves can be designed around your exact storage needs, making the most of every inch.
5. Embrace Furniture with Hidden Storage
If storage is limited and space is tight, invest in furniture that serves a dual purpose. For the bedroom, you can purchase storage beds, either with pull-out draws or lifting mechanisms, that provide the ideal place for spare bedding and towels.
In the living room, a footstool or ottoman combines comfort and functionality. Just lift the lid to pop in your craft supplies, toys or paperwork when you need to tidy up. And, for the dining area benches with under-seat storage and tables with drawers provide space for cutlery, coasters and other bits and bobs.
Designated Storage Saves a Panic
In a busy home, it is easy to just tidy everything away into the nearest storage option. However, this can make it incredibly hard to locate what you need when you need it. For this reason, I recommend designating every drawer, shelf, basket or ottoman for a specific use. Then, get everyone in the habit of putting things away in the right place to save a future panic.
Finally, if you’ve followed these suggestions and still can’t find a place for everything, it could be time to declutter. Most of us hold on to items that we no longer use and will never need. A sort-out can uncover long-forgotten treasures as well as items that can be donated, sold or binned. I share more tips in my Guide to Creating a Calm, Organised Home.