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Storage. No matter the size of your home, we all seem to need more storage. Whether you just moved into your new Southern California house or want to list it soon, you may need to add storage. If so, here are a few economical and inventive ways to do that without breaking the bank.
How to Add Storage to Your Home
Shelves
Never underestimate the simplicity and economy of shelving. Bathroom limited on space? Add a few shelves. (Good Housekeeping offers up some brilliant ideas here.) Running low on storage in your kitchen? Add a few shelves. (HGTV provides some interesting thoughts on open shelving in the kitchen here.) Just about any “dead space” in your home can be better used for storage with shelves. Living rooms look great with built-in bookshelves, too. Add a couple of drawers or decorative bins to stash away toys and other knick-knacks you don’t want guests to see.
Repurpose a Closet
With a few pieces of wood, some nails, and a little imagination, you can transform that old utility closet into an extra pantry, linen closet, or any other extra space needed. In the bedroom, most closets have extra space above the clothing rod. Add a shelf or two above to keep your luggage, out-of-season clothing, hats, bags, etc. Speaking of out-of-season, utilizing space-saver bags to vacuum-seal both clothing and bedding that you won’t be using for a few months.
Multi-Function Furniture
Furniture provides a fun and unique way to add storage to just about any room. A bench with built-in storage placed at the end of your bed, in your entry way, or in the living room provides additional seating as well as a great place to store blankets, shoes, toys, or whatever you need to stash away fast. You can also find ottomans and coffee tables with built-in storage. A bench seat under a window offers up a lovely place for reading as well as extra storage. Create an eat-in kitchen with a dining table and bench seating for a lovely breakfast nook. Store extra tablecloths, holiday linens, and those kitchen appliances you only use on special occasions here.
Roll-Away Options
Many companies offer slim cart options with wheels for easy roll-away storage in even the tightest of spaces. Add one to your kitchen to keep spices, seasonings, oils, and sprays organized and easy to reach. Keep your laundry essentials available when needed and tucked away when not. Use one in the bathroom for extra toilet paper and cleaning supplies.
Look Up
Finally, look up. When vertical space is limited, consider adding storage courtesy of your ceiling. A net or hammock for your child’s stuffed animals gets them off the floor yet tucked away. A pot rack keeps pots and pans readily available to use and frees up space in your cabinets. Garages also tend to collect a lot of “stuff”. This “stuff” can get out of hand pretty quickly, too. Consider adding shelving that hangs from the ceiling for your sports equipment, camping gear, holiday decorations, or anything else.
Muna Dionne, your Inland Empire specialist with Coldwell Banker Realty
