This week on Decorating Tips for Renter’s I wanted to share a few storage solutions with you.
More often than not, living in a rental means living in tight quarters and maximizing storage is a must. Don’t worry, even maximizing storage can be done with style. When trying to find ways to maximize storage in a rental, think outside of the box…look up, look down, look under furniture, next to furniture, beds, closets, etc.
Below are 6 Ways to Maximize Storage…
6. Baskets
Baskets are a terrific way to organize and store items. They add warmth and texture to a space and contain clutter.
Use baskets to organize items on open shelves, or under a table in the entry to collect shoes. They are also great in the bathroom to hold extra towels or toiletries.
5. Storage Ottomans
Storage ottomans are perfect when it comes to maximizing storage. They can be used in the living room in place of a coffee table, as a bench at the foot of a bed, or even for extra seating in the dining room.
These multifunctional pieces are a must in small living spaces.
4. Skirted Tables
When looking for storage solutions, don’t just look to tables and closets. Skirted tables are not only a pretty addition to any room, but they also make a excellent place to store extra items that aren’t needed on a day to day basis.
* Tip: Store office supplies underneath, when you need it, pull up and chair and voila instant office.
3. Go Vertical
When you are in need of extra storage… look to the walls. In a small kitchen use hooks or a piece of painted pegboard to hang pots and pans. Not only will this give you more cupboard space but it will also add an interesting focal point to the kitchen.
However, the kitchen isn’t the only place to look to the walls. Floor to ceiling open shelves are easy to remove when it is time to move and are a fun way to display your personal items.
2.Hutches
Flea Markets, Thrift stores and garage sales are great options for finding deals on furniture. While you’re shopping, keep an eye out for hutches/secretaries.
A pretty coat of paint and a stencil can turn a neglected piece of furniture into a treasure with plenty of storage space.
Hutches work well because not only do they add storage , but they take up vertical space, adding interest to bland, neutral rental walls.
1. Divide the Room
Images via myhomeideas, ballarddesigns, hookedonhouses, prettystuff, designsponge, tinyk, honeysweethome, meredith&gwyneth
These beautifully styled bookshelves by Meredith of Meredith & Gwyneth are a terrific example of style and function in a small space. Her shelves add a focal point, storage and act as a divider creating privacy in her 470 sq. foot apartment.
Meredith has done an incredible job making her apartment feel like home, head on over for a tour…I know you’ll find some more fun tips on how to personalize a rental.
Next week we’ll wrap this series up with lighting ideas for renters. If you missed the last two weeks you can catch up here (accessories) and here (fabric).
Pin It
These are great tips for everyone…not just renters! Love your inspiration images. I use alot of baskets in my home…for shoes, throws, magazines, etc. I love how versatile they can be and how they add texture and style to any space.
Great suggestions…I love the bookshelves and use of baskets. I love the designed bookshelf in the last photo.
Elizabeth, you have made our day! Gwyneth and I were so excited to see that you included our bookcase / room divider! Thank you!
And we can feel a skirted table project (or two) coming on soon!
xoxo,
mk
Meredith & Gwyneth, The New Yorkie recently posted..Armed With Post-It’s, Paintbrushes and Pliers
I love the first picture with the baskets! I want to re-do our home office into a hobby/craft room. These baskets would be perfection! Missi
Missi at Havoc-to-Heaven recently posted..Plan B
Can I just tell you how much I love these tips for renters??? Seriously, it’s an issue being a renter and wanting to do stuff to your abode and not feeling like you really can because you don’t want to have to *un-do* it all! Love it, lady!
Aubrey recently posted..Fancy a week at the spa???
I love baskets – we’ve got them all over our house and we own – but I can see how they would come in quite handy for renters that need extra storage. We also have the Expedit and it’s awesome – such a work horse.
Holly recently posted..Pattern Play – What Direction Would You Go?
I seriously just said to the hubs today that living in this condo is like an Olympic event in finding storage! Thanks for the tips friend!
xo Becca
Becca recently posted..✥ {Restoration Hardware Inspired} Wood and Metal-ish Table Makeover ✥
I love your open shelves idea. I forget so much that I have when it is out of sight. Thank you for the tips. Our condo has so little storage space. I will try some of the basket ideas.
I must implement some of these deco ideas. They are totally awesome. Mine is a small room and I am pretty sure I am going to turn it into an amazing haven using the tips you have provided. I am so glad you shared.
Karan Kristie recently posted..maxworkoutsreview.net
Some are harm and bloodied but no just one appears to be worse off.
The shopkeeper of a kiosk a few of homes down, techniques out & stares puzzled at
them. It’s distribute to the bar and looks to come from the ceiling.
china factory wages recently posted..china factory wages