Open Storage Space Can Be A Challenge
Achieving a functional storage space that looks great inside and out is challenging. For example, what do you do with an overload of things to organize when there is little to no closet, drawer, or cabinet space available?
That’s when people typically place everything anywhere, just as long as these things are on a flat surface. Well, that does not look organized or pretty (but no one said they were trying either).
Some places do have open storage space by design. And this is where the challenge is.
One of the most charming houses I’ve ever worked with was a custom-built home without any storage space! The few areas available to store things, even in the kitchen, were small and exposed (as in no cabinets, drawers, etc.). Furthermore, every storage area consisted of built-in niches, which made using storage furniture pieces an awkward proposition.
Consider This To Make It Work
Some factors to consider when organizing an area with open storage are the style of the space, harmonious storage solutions, minimalism, and maintenance.
When things need to remain in plain sight due to lack of concealed storage space, arrange them stylishly- those items that might look good enough to display by themselves.
However, when storing items that clearly can’t stand by themselves as they are, like food or cleaning products, consider using baskets or bins that share either color or style to create a homogeneous, harmonic look that complements the style of the space. Otherwise, the area will look disorganized and cluttered.
Maintenance is essential because, over time, we turn blind to the looks of a space we see daily. Due to its openness, we forget that such storage space is an integral part of the area’s decor and style. Therefore, visible space needs to be well-kept, not only in order but also in color, item arrangement, and balance with the rest of the space.
Consider the picture below.
Open storage space is an organizing challenge
This kitchen would only look this appealing with attention to color balance, positioning, and item amount. Some kitchens rely on open shelves like these instead of upper cabinets.
NOTE: The attention that open storage space requires does not excuse using cabinets and drawers carelessly (as in shoving everything inside in a messy pile) because these are concealed storage areas. These covered spaces still need to be organized so we know what we have and can easily access them. Otherwise, why keep any of it?
Don’t hesitate to contact us if you are in a difficult spot deciding about your open storage space.
