Storage Opportunities

Unique Places & Designs

Once you've determined what needs to be stored, consider these ways to accommodate different items.

Look for odd nooks and crannies.
They may be opportunities for interesting shelving or cabinets.

Add a room divider to an open layout.
For example, in a home where the kitchen and dining room flow together, install floor-to-ceiling cabinets between rooms to store linens, dishes, china, silverware, and other less-used kitchen equipment. Link the rooms with a pass-through in the cabinets.

Try making one big storage center.
Pick one wall and try to mass all of your needs along that one wall. The room will feel more spacious and organized. And it's cheaper.

Take advantage of the wall surrounding a fireplace.
It's a good spot for additional shelving or for a television, bookshelves, or stereo equipment.

Add recessed shelving.
Recessed shelving can go almost anywhere. You can install shallow, between-the-studs storage into most interior walls.

Mix up the cabinets.
If you have a tight budget, make the most of stock or midrange cabinets from a home remodeling center pairing it with high-end tile or other splurges.