How to Unify Function and Style When Organizing Your Home

When most people think of an organized home, they think of a space where all items are put away, but the system isn’t very pretty. (Yes, I’m talking to you boring plastic bins!)  An organized home can be neat and things can be in their proper place but those spaces can also look great and stylish. If you are bored of your basic lidded bin from a big box store, I’ve got some ideas for you.

1. Add Some Color

Color doesn’t have to mean adding blue or hot pink! It can, but it can also mean adding neutrals.

When thinking about a space, always start with function - how do I want this space to work? Once you determine how things should be put away, then think about adding color.

One client had a gorgeous set of metal utensils with handles in blues and greens. In the clear plastic utensil bins the color felt a little washed out but in bamboo, boy, did they pop! The client felt great every time she opened the drawer to set the table. In a white linen closet, I used cane baskets, but to add a pop of color, I added charcoal grey felt bins. For a playroom, think about adding colored bins (Target and the Container Store have great options). A range of colors will look fun but will also be a visual reminder for kids when it comes to cleaning up (e.g. Legos go in the orange bin and markers in the blue bin).

2. Layer in Some Texture

Another way to spice up traditional plastic organizing bins is by opting for products with texture. There are so many options out there these days including wicker, cane, rattan, felt, canvas, and perforated metal. Choose whatever matches your home and makes you happy.

If you are seeking a beachy vibe, choose seagrass or natural and white striped bins. A modern style pantry looks great with black metal and glass. For a more traditional space, mix rattan and acacia or bamboo. A home office looks stylish with storage boxes made out of textured linen, while a nursery should have softer textures such as cotton rope and felt bins.

3. Make It Personal

One more method for beautifying organization is by making it personal. Do you have a gorgeous old trunk from your grandmother? Use it to store table linens. You can use old tin pitchers you love to store cooking utensils on the counter. An old leather suitcase works on the top shelf of a closet but it can also store seasonal items you don’t reach for often. Get creative! Try to repurpose your well-loved items or antiques as storage solutions. Pieces with meaning always make for a more warm and welcoming home.

Are you ready to blend style, function, and personality into your home organization? Then click here to chat!

Cheers,

Leslie