Kayla VanHorn
About Author
January 15, 2025
 in 
How To

How to Create Unique Storage in Your Home

One of the biggest challenges in home organization is finding creative ways to store your belongings while maintaining a neat and aesthetically pleasing environment. If you’re tired of clutter but don’t want to compromise on style, there are countless ways to transform your storage into something functional, unique, and even a little fun. Whether you’re working with a small space or just looking to refresh your current setup, the key is to think outside the box.

Here are some ideas for creating unique storage solutions in your home using the Neat Method — an approach that focuses on simplicity, elegance, and efficiency.

1. Repurpose Vintage or Unusual Containers

Old Suitcases, Trunks, or Boxes
Give new life to vintage suitcases, wooden crates, or decorative trunks by using them as storage. These items not only add charm and character to your space but also provide ample storage for things like books, blankets, or seasonal clothes. Stack them in a corner or use them as an end table or coffee table for a functional yet stylish look.

Glass Jars & Apothecary Containers
For smaller items like craft supplies, bathroom essentials, or kitchen staples, glass jars are a beautiful and organized way to store. They make your belongings visible, and you can group them by color, size, or type for a cohesive look. Mason jars, apothecary jars, or glass candy dishes are all good options.

2. Create Hidden Storage in Plain Sight

Storage Under Furniture
If you have a bed, couch, or even a dining table that has space underneath, why not use it for storage? Under-bed storage boxes or baskets can house everything from extra linens to off-season clothing. Consider a storage ottoman in the living room that doubles as a footrest or extra seating.

Floating Shelves & Nooks
Instead of bulky furniture, install floating shelves that give the appearance of open space while storing your books, plants, or decorative objects. You can also create hidden storage in unused corners or empty walls. A custom-built nook can be a cozy way to store things like shoes, bags, or kids' toys out of sight but still easily accessible.

3. Incorporate Multi-Functional Furniture

Storage-Integrated Furniture
Opt for furniture that doubles as storage, such as a coffee table with built-in drawers or a bed with built-in storage compartments. There are even desks with hidden drawers and compartments for extra files, stationary, and office supplies.

Expandable Storage Pieces
Folding tables, chairs, and benches with hidden compartments allow you to change the size of your furniture depending on the needs of your space. This is especially helpful in small apartments where space is at a premium.

4. Use Vertical Space Creatively

Vertical Wall Shelving
When floor space is limited, utilize your walls to maximize storage. Install vertical shelves to store books, decorative items, or office supplies. Think beyond traditional shelves: hanging storage baskets, pegboards, or ladder-style shelves can all serve as unique ways to display and store items.

Wall-Mounted Hooks or Racks
Consider installing hooks or racks to store coats, bags, jewelry, or even kitchen utensils. Wall-mounted storage is incredibly versatile, and you can switch up what’s stored on them as needed.

5. Harness the Power of Baskets, Bins, and Bins with Lids

Baskets for Visible Storage
Baskets add a relaxed, boho vibe to a room and can hold anything from throw blankets to kids' toys. When organized by type or color, they make the most chaotic spaces feel more organized while keeping things accessible.

Lidded Bins for Tidy Storing
For things that you don’t want visible, lidded bins offer a clean look while still keeping things out of sight. These bins are especially great for attics, closets, and basements where you want to maximize storage but also need to keep the space neat and tidy.

6. Incorporate DIY Storage Solutions

Under-Cabinet Drawers and Dividers
Create your own under-cabinet drawers or dividers using inexpensive materials. For instance, adding small rolling carts or making simple wood dividers in kitchen cabinets can create organization in areas like your pantry or kitchen junk drawer.

Repurpose Old Furniture
Consider upcycling old furniture into storage solutions. For example, an old ladder can be turned into a towel rack, or a bookshelf can be mounted on the wall to hold knick-knacks or electronics. When you customize these pieces, you add a personal touch to your home that also helps with organization.

7. Focus on Aesthetic & Functionality

One of the core principles of the Neat Method is that storage doesn’t have to be an eyesore. The goal is to keep things organized while integrating beauty into your home.

Match Storage to Your Home’s Aesthetic
To create a cohesive look, match your storage solutions with the overall style of your home. If you have a minimalist aesthetic, opt for neutral-colored baskets and sleek shelving units. If your style leans more bohemian, go for woven storage baskets or rustic wooden crates.

Clear Containers for Visibility and Easy Access
Transparent storage containers or open shelving give you quick access to stored items while keeping things tidy. By grouping items into categories, such as kitchen gadgets, craft supplies, or office papers, you make the most of the space without creating a mess.

The key to creating unique storage within your home is to approach it with creativity and practicality. The Neat Method encourages creating spaces that are not only functional but also calm and visually pleasing. By repurposing items, maximizing vertical space, and using multi-functional furniture, you can create a space that feels more open, organized, and uniquely your own.

With a little ingenuity and thoughtful planning, you can turn every corner of your home into a well-organized and stylish haven. So next time you're decluttering or redesigning a room, think of storage as an opportunity to elevate your home’s aesthetic and functionality.

Feeling inspired to start your next design project? Head over to our contact page to get started.

Yes, I am ready!
More Posts

You Might Also Like

Read More
Design

Current Trends in Kitchen and Bath Design

In the realm of interior design, kitchens and bathrooms are two of the most important spaces in any home. These areas are not only functional but also serve as focal points for defining the overall aesthetic of a house. Keeping up with the latest design trends in kitchens and bathrooms can help homeowners create spaces that are both stylish and functional.
Oct 17, 2024
Jen Haywood
Read More
Our Process

10 Questions to Ask Before Hiring an Interior Decorator

Hiring an interior decorator can be an exciting step in transforming your space, but it's important to find the right professional for the job. Before making any commitments, it's crucial to ask the right questions to ensure that the decorator is the perfect fit for your needs and vision. Here are 10 key questions to ask before hiring an interior decorator.
Sep 9, 2024
Jen Haywood
Read More
How To

How to Source the Right Art for Your Walls

Finding the perfect art for your walls involves careful consideration of size and color. By understanding the importance of size and color in relation to the overall aesthetic of a room, we help our clients make informed decisions that enhance the visual impact of their wall art.
Jul 24, 2024
Jen Haywood