Carve out an entry and storage with a small cabinet! via BHG
I love small houses. They present a fun challenge: make the space stylish, functional, and organized all at once. The key is to have each item earn its keep and often do double duty. While browsing ideas today, I found several practical solutions that work especially well in small homes.
Many small houses lack a separate foyer, and that’s okay. You can define an entry simply with a piece of furniture. Placing a small chest or dresser near the front door creates a defined landing and provides attractive storage for shoes, hats, bags, and other everyday items.
Built-ins with boxes, baskets and bins
Built-ins can dramatically change how a small home feels. Free-standing furniture sometimes looks cluttered and can waste space. Built-ins or banquettes make better use of nooks and corners while providing concealed or styled storage. Glass-fronted cabinetry keeps sightlines open while still offering organized storage.
If you have a small breakfast nook or dining area, a built-in banquette is a smart solution. It creates extra seating while offering hidden storage for dishes, seasonal items, and small appliances. It’s both practical and space-saving—a true win-win.
Small space organization
Tiny, awkward cabinets often become dumping grounds. Instead of letting them turn into a mess, add appropriately sized containers, boxes, or baskets to create an attractive, functional interior. When a cabinet looks neat and pretty, you’re more likely to keep it that way.
Laundry Room Details
Over-the-door organizers and clear shoe racks are excellent for maximizing unused wall or door space. They gather small items that would otherwise get lost in larger storage areas and keep frequently used things within easy reach.
Don’t let small spaces go to waste—use them thoughtfully and make them attractive in the process.
double duty organization
Large walls for hooks and memo boards are helpful, but many small homes don’t have that luxury. Instead, carve out a compact landing area for family essentials. Use small containers—metal buckets or boxes—with clips or magnets for personalized reminders. Thinking in terms of double duty helps keep everything tidy and accessible.
back of the door organizing
Not everyone has a dedicated craft room, but you can still carve out functional craft or wrapping zones in a small house. Use portions of existing spaces—inside a closet door, a hall cupboard, or a cabinet—to store the essentials. Limiting supplies to what you actually use makes the hobby more manageable and more likely to be enjoyed.
I plan to use a couple of doors in my own home to store craft supplies and wrapping paper. Even without a full room, having a designated, organized spot means I can find what I need quickly and actually use my supplies.
If kitchen cabinet space is limited, try a freestanding cabinet for extra dishes or create a pantry in an unconventional spot. Under-stair space, a nearby closet, or a dresser beside the dining table can all serve as pantry alternatives. Turning an awkward nook into a purposeful storage area expands your usable kitchen space and keeps countertops clear.
Designating an attractive place for every item you use—no matter how small the footprint—helps you maintain an organized home with style. When each zone serves a purpose and looks inviting, keeping things in order becomes much easier.
What organizational projects are you working on?
Related Posts:
Courtney’s Tiny Bedroom Tour
My House Tour
How to Organize Your House {Making the Best Use of Your Space}
5 Things Every Small Bedroom Needs
Small House Solutions
If you want more organizing ideas for your home, check out my home organization shop!
Get your copy of my book Simple Organizing at major retailers.
Getting organized doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Create a clear vision for each room, design systems that inspire you, and focus on progress rather than perfection. Full color images make it easy to visualize solutions.
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