Display-worthy baskets, glass-fronted cabinets, and colorful tins can make organization part of your decor.
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From a Brooklyn studio to a narrow Baltimore rowhouse, two decades of small-space living have taught me how to make every square foot count. Add in my Type A Virgo tendencies and an appreciation for good design, and I have strong opinions about storage: Namely, it should be as good-looking as it is hard-working. My first stop when hunting for products that deliver just that is always IKEA. The Swedish retailer has an unmatched selection of storage furniture and decor. Here are seven pieces that offer both function and form.
I have never known the pleasure of a linen closet, but I’ve gotten so many compliments on this metal-and-glass cabinet in my bathroom that I no longer mind. The reeded glass offers an unexpected texture while obscuring what’s inside to reduce visual clutter, and each interior shelf is roomy enough to hold a stack of towels, plus a small bin for toiletries and medicine bottles. I like to use the bamboo UPPDATERA boxes for material contrast; the larger style works great on the lower shelves to tame my mess of serums, makeup, lotions, and the like.
There is no such thing as too many bins or baskets when you live in a small space. They are the unsung organizational heroes, giving you a way to stash all the miscellaneous things that would typically be tucked away in a closet, attic, basement, or even a spare room in a larger home. IKEA sells a huge variety, but the woven styles like this one are particularly lovely to keep on display. I use them on my EKET living room shelves for games, in my bedroom for scarves and bags, and in the kitchen for tea towels and napkins.
When square footage is at a premium, closets tend to get eliminated. A free-standing wardrobe is the solution to creating clothes storage in a small bedroom. This chic new design features sliding doors—a space-saver itself since you won’t need to account for door clearance—adjustable shelves, and two drawers.
If your front door, like mine, opens directly into your living space, you need to fake a foyer as best you can. The key to that is shoe storage—otherwise, guests will be staring at muddy boots the minute they walk into your home. This cabinet hides 14 pairs behind a traditional design, and sticks out from the wall less than a foot. Two drawers make space for keys and sunglasses while four hooks give bags and dog leashes a home.
All kitchens can benefit from more storage, but it’s the small cook spaces where you really need to get creative. A mobile cart offers that utility, and this one features three shelves for anything from spices and baking supplies to serveware or a coffee bar.
Another simple small kitchen storage idea: Keep your dry goods in stackable containers, like the BETTHAJ tins, to maximize your pantry shelf space. They’re far easier to handle than flimsy paper containers or plastic bags, plus, they look great on a countertop or open shelving. They come in five different sizes, from 19 oz. to 3.3 qt., so you can mix and match to suit your needs.
Why choose between extra seating or more storage when you can have both? This sturdy little pouf hides a compartment that I use for an extra throw blanket, but it could also fit a few games, your knitting supplies, or remote controls. The cushioned top is taut enough that it can also function as a side table, making this a small space triple threat.
Head to IKEA to find storage that maximizes space without sacrificing style.
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