This year my focus is on creating a place for everything we love. Recently I added two baskets in the dining room, and in this post I’ll explain why they work for our space.
Each year we pare down a bit more. Downsizing and being intentional about what we keep has helped us own less, and it also makes it easier to find joy in the items that remain.
I don’t find any joy in owning things I rarely use and then having to hunt for them. Over time I’ve learned there’s little point in saving lots of “just in case” items—especially when storage is limited. Holding on to things with the hope you might need them someday often results in clutter you can’t find when you actually want it. Worse, you may know an item exists but never bother to look for it when the moment comes.
These lessons may sound obvious, but belongings tend to multiply unless you set clear boundaries about what to keep and where to store it. We’re still refining our approach.
Understanding your habits and how you live in a specific home takes time. That insight guides better decisions about what to keep and how to store it.
Baskets are one of those storage options that can be both helpful and risky. They look attractive and add texture, but they can also encourage you to stash things you later forget about. For me, baskets strike a balance: I’m not a minimalist, and a basket or two can make a room feel cozy while hiding small items that would otherwise create visual clutter.
In my quest to give everything a place, I use baskets intentionally. Each basket needs a dedicated purpose and a spot that makes sense. If an item is used regularly in a certain area, keeping a basket nearby is practical.
In the dining room, I had two lower shelves on the banquette that seemed perfect for attractive baskets. They’re an easy place to keep napkins, candle holders, taper candles, or other small items used when setting the table. We already have larger drawers under the banquette, but a basket gives quick access to smaller items without opening drawers.
I didn’t want the shelves to become an obvious storage zone because we like displaying books and decor on the higher shelves. The lower shelves are usually hidden behind cushions, so baskets there feel convenient and intentional rather than cluttered.
I was picky about color, size, and quality. I wanted baskets that matched the wood tone of the room, filled the space so they looked deliberate, and were durable. Removable lids were a must—baskets without lids felt messy in that spot. After searching for the right combination of style, sturdiness, and price, I chose baskets that fit my needs and budget.
These rattan lidded baskets ended up being the best choice for the shelves. The removable lids keep everything looking tidy, and the size fills the space well. They add warmth and texture while serving a clear purpose.
I also considered baskets with removable dividers because that feature is useful for organizing smaller items. In the end, the lidded rattan baskets suited this location better, although I may use dividers elsewhere in the house.
I haven’t finalized exactly what will go into each basket, but I’m excited to have a convenient, dedicated place for items near the dining table. Giving each basket a clear role will help keep the room organized and make setting the table faster and more enjoyable.
More baskets I love on Amazon
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Browse all organization inspiration posts on The Inspired Room