Home Office in a Closet: Country Living
It feels wonderful to have an organized home, yet paperwork and school projects can quickly take over. With a new, smaller house I’m still developing systems, so I’m ready to create better order. When space is limited, how do you find smart everyday storage solutions?
Being organized in a large house is one thing; in a home about half the size of the last one, hiding clutter is more challenging. But space constraints don’t have to mean chaos.
Maximize what you have. Even with limits, you can make your home attractive, personal and inspiring. A little creativity goes a long way—let the photos below spark ideas you can adapt.
I love the closet office above. It’s compact, pretty and clearly functional.
Desks don’t have to be expensive. Build one to suit your needs or repurpose items you already own. A well-styled desk helps keep clutter in check.
My desk is simply two file cabinets topped with a desktop. It’s practical and easy to personalize. Old file cabinets can be spray painted and updated with new knobs. You can also attach table legs to an old door or refinish a thrifted table to create an instant custom desk.
Refresh storage pieces. Paint and hardware can transform file cabinets into a credenza or turn a dresser into useful, stylish storage anywhere in the house.
Create custom message centers. Frame a whiteboard with wood to make a tailored spot for lists, calendars and reminders. I keep several bulletin boards and message areas where I can easily see them.
Use color and containers. Coordinate storage boxes, shoe boxes or baskets with your decor by covering them in paper or paint. Open storage can look intentional and stylish with a consistent color palette and purposeful containers.
Hide clutter with fabric. Tables with skirts or curtains are a stylish way to conceal supplies. Look for wasted space under counters, shelves or tables to tuck away boxes and baskets—clever concealment can make a room feel calmer.
Use every corner. Even small spaces can hold useful storage: skirted tables in dining rooms can hide filing and shelving, and a coffee table with removable cushions can double as seating and storage.
What items do you struggle to store?
Are you ready for some spring organizing?
Organizational inspiration from: Better Homes & Gardens, except top photo Country Living. This post revised from April 2008.