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Use these storage solutions to disguise clutter and maximise space...
What's the best way to store things that you need but would prefer to keep out of sight? One way to ensure you don’t go back to old habits after decluttering is by investing in savvy storage solutions to hide or disguise your items. Not only will this keep everything neat, tidy and easier to find, but it'll look more aesthetically pleasing too. From utilising multipurpose furniture to using curtains as a screen, here are some clever ways to conceal clutter for a tidier home.
If you want an instant and easy way to conceal clutter, a folding screen is a simple, cost-effective option. Be it hiding a messy area when guests visit, concealing cable clutter, or separating a kids’ play area, folding screens will always come in handy.
'When you can’t dispense with clutter completely, simply hide it,' states Danielle Le Vaillant, head of photography & film at Cox & Cox. 'A folding screen that reflects the overall styling of a room is perfect for disguising the ironing pile or that chair in the bedroom that is more wardrobe than seat.'
The space under the stairs is usually either abandoned or used as a dumping ground for excess junk – but there's lots of potential here, especially if opting for bespoke storage.
'Most people will go years with shoving clutter like bikes, footballs, old shoes and boxes of collectibles under the stairs hoping no one sees it,' says Garret Harper, designer at Bespoke Carpentry London. 'However, people do see it! This under stairs unit has been created so they can hide everything they want, but not just hide it, store it in an orderly fashion whilst making use of a redundant space in the house.'
Pictured: Project by Bespoke Carpentry London
For all of its benefits, the risk with open shelving is that a perfectly curated space can soon become a cluttered, unorganised mess. But fear not: curtains are a quick, on-trend solution for disguising items and keeping them out of sight, all whilst introducing colour and pattern to your space.
'Install stylish curtains beneath sinks, countertops, or open shelving units to add some colour and style and conceal your clutter,' says Sam Greig, senior designer at Swoon.
Pictured: Fastnet stripe cotton fabric, Tori Murphy
Vertical storage is a practical solution if you want to free up floor space, and you can even design it to create a pathway to another room, like this clever storage door frame.
'This bespoke unit has been so perfectly designed using the maximum storage possible,' says Garret Harper. 'In this one unit you have room for shelving, hanging clothes and luggage in the tall section. The design also brings an extra aesthetic to the room and does it seamlessly – like it had always been there. And it created a more dramatic entrance to the bathroom too!'
Pictured: Project by Bespoke Carpentry London
A must for small spaces, multipurpose storage can be both practical and stylish, and it's a brilliant solution for keeping everything out of sight.
'Ottoman beds are a fantastic space-saving way to conceal clutter, offering functionality and style,' says Lisa Jones, editorial design manager at Dunelm. 'Ideal for bedrooms where storage space is limited, you can make the most of an ottoman bed by storing seasonal items, your shoes or even your bed linen. Baskets and drawer organisers will help to utilise the space and help keep your room neat and clutter-free.'
Alternatively, a storage bench or ottoman chest will equally serve you well in a bedroom, and is a great space-saver if you need to store extra bedding.
Pictured: House Beautiful Rosa Upholstered Blanket Box, Dreams
Whether it's your growing shoe collection, handbags or even children's toys, investing in slimline drawers can easily conceal clutter, and keep everything tidy.
'A sleek chest of drawers with an abundance of space is truly a must-have for any home,' agrees Sam Greig. 'Let’s admit it, it’s an ideal solution for hiding "mess" whilst keeping things simple, tidy and elegant on the outside.'
And if you don’t have the budget to buy new drawers, you can always repurpose trunks to hide clutter. 'Trunks, at the end of a bed, behind the sofa or as a standalone piece in the dining room is fabulous for books, games, linens or seasonal decorations,' says Jane Rockett and Lucy St George of Rockett St George.
Pictured: Chest of drawers painted in Paloma chalk paint, Annie Sloan
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