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Stylish places to stow your odds and ends are critical in the living room. Whether it's big or small, fancy or casual, the living room is likely the most public and communal space in the house—it's where you entertain guests, so it's gotta make a good impression. That means clutter is a no-go. So read on for 15 clever living room storage ideas to get yours in tip-top shape.
In this living room designed by Emily Henderson, the slim cast iron side table doubles as a catch all for reading materials. Furniture that serves double duty like this is perfect for smaller living rooms and minimalist spaces.
BUY NOW Nathan James Accent Table, $60
A floor-to-ceiling wall unit will clear excess clutter from your useable surfaces and tables throughout the living room. This is obviously good for functional reasons (like having a place to put down your cocktail), but it also dresses up the walls. Designed by Arent & Pyke, this shelving unit is sophisticated and spacious on it's own, while also providing another place to display decorative objects.
BUY NOW CB2 Cabinet Shelving Unit, $699
This living room designed by Arent & Pyke packs ample seating and storage into a small space with strategic customizations that don't overwhelm the eye. For example, the wall sconces free up floor space and the built-in bench features drawers underneath.
BUY NOW F24 Radius Dresser Bench, $929
The easiest, most affordable way to introduce more storage space? Baskets! They're neutral catch-alls for blankets and throws. Designer Tasmin Johnson added one in this living room, which balances out the formal elements without clashing. You could also repurpose an old crate or use a wire basket for something more sleek.
BUY NOW Ferm Living Basket, $108
The firewood storage notch alone with the organic wood coffee table neutral color ensures that the living room complements the gorgeous view ahead without stealing the spotlight. The open cabinet for the firewood is functional, but keeping the wood out in the open also adds a homey, inviting appeal to the space. It also creates a pretty, natural pattern that doubles as art.
BUY NOW CB2 Log Holder, $100
Floating shelves are easy enough to install yourself but they can make an entire space look more polished and refined. Tasmin Johnson filled these two with books and vases, adding dimension and complimenting the wall art.
BUY NOW Ikea Floating Shelf, $30
Storage pieces don't have to look overly bulky or out of place. This Arent & Pyke-designed living room proves it. Just use a sleek media cabinet or low-profile dresser in a corner to keep your items out of sight. Then dress it up with tabletop decor and a large-scale painting.
BUY NOW Noir Sideboard, $1632
From the built-in book shelves to double-decker burled wood coffee table, this family-friendly living room deigned by Cameron Rupert is pulling out all the clever storage stops.
BUY NOW BD Studio Caminito Coffee Table, $870
We're digging the curated eclecticism in Elizabeth Georgantas' Nantucket living room. The coffee table is an upcycled trunk, a motif enhanced by another trunk peaking out in the corner. It's a good alternative to baskets if you'd prefer something with a lid.
BUY NOW Vintiquewise Steamer Trunk, $110
Okay, we don't mean you should shove everything under the sofa and call it a day. But instead of committing to a laborious remodel or installing floating shelves yourself, just stack up your books into neat piles and put them under your side table or coffee table. It adds color and intrigue, as seen here in this living room designed by Redmond Aldrich Design.
BUY NOW Would Storage Coffee Table, $899
Storage ottomans are serious game-changers, especially in family homes. They don't have to compromise on looks, either. There are plenty of understated, stylish options out there.
BUY NOW Threshold Storage Ottoman, $81
How clever is this flip top cabinet-meets-bar? Designed by NICOLEHOLLIS, this modern living room is always ready for a good time. With a piece like this, you won't have to run back and forth to the kitchen to make cocktails for your guests.
BUY NOW Urban Outfitters Media Console, $249
Alternatively, you could take Regan Baker Design's route and roll up a bart cart. Decorate it with coffee tables and candles, store your barware on it, or use it to get cocktails to and from the kitchen when you're entertaining.
BUY NOW World Market Bar Cart, $140
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