The key to keeping any space tidy is to have dedicated storage places for every item. This applies particularly to small rooms, where storage space is often lacking.
Functional bedroom storage can be pretty as well as practical. Here are some tips for getting organised in style.
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Cupboards
A built-in cupboard will maximise the storage potential of any bedroom, particularly if yours has awkward nooks and crannies.
In addition to the customary shelves and rails, there are many products on the market to help you organise your cupboards. These include racks for scarves and ties or shallow drawers to stow away small items like watches and jewellery.
Keep underwear, socks and other essentials in place with drawer inserts. Use a selection of boxes and trays so that everything has a designated spot.
In addition to keeping your small bedroom tidy, these tools will help speed up your morning routine with everything you need in its place.
Chest of drawers
Every bedroom needs a chest of drawers, and taller designs are best for rooms with limited floor space.
- Be sure to choose one with strong drawers and good quality runners, or daily use will soon take its toll.
- The top of the chest of drawers can be used for additional storage for small items like jewellery, sunglasses and belts or to set up your music station.
- Some furniture companies supply trays to fit their drawers, but you can buy dividers online from firms like Takealot, Ikea and Amazon. You can also repurpose shoe boxes or toiletry gift boxes.
Shelves
If structural changes are possible as part of your bedroom makeover, then a couple of shelves are a great way to incorporate functionality and decorative appeal.
- Keep your books within reach on floating shelves while making the best use of an unused space or nook.
- Maximise storage capacity with recessed finishes for storing trinkets.
- Windowsills can double as shelves for placing indoor plants along with any solar-powered devices. If your bedroom faces the road, be sure to install blinds so that your possessions aren't permanently on display.
Baskets
Baskets provide versatile and transportable storage solutions in any space, as well as adding texture and colour.
If space is really tight, two-tier storage baskets also make a stylish bedside table.
Dividers
A room divider is ideal for cordoning off a small area of a room.
- This is a stylish way to conceal drying laundry - or even piles of stuff on the floor.
- If your bedroom doubles as a home office, dining room and living room, a room divider will help you to switch into relaxation mode at night.
Walls
In a small bedroom, you have to make the most of every inch of space, and this includes the walls.
- A wooden peg rack is ideal for hanging handbags and hats and doesn't take up much room.
- Television sets are best installed out of the way against a wall.
- A wall-mounted headboard can be used to hold items like a magazine rack.
Under the bed
Some beds have in-built drawers, but if you don't want to buy a new bed, look for drawers that roll away under your existing bed. These are great for storing spare towels and bed linen or shoes.
The guidelines listed above are sufficient to help you give your small bedroom a tidy makeover.
Writer : Sarah-Jane Meyer