Savvy Storage Solutions for Small Spaces

from: http://www.bhg.com/

Rent To Own.ph: Most of our homes have odd or small areas that we think are a waste of space. More often than not, these spaces are neglected and underutilized. Create functionality where there is none! Read these design tips from the experts.

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Double-Duty Kitchen Island

Find additional storage space without adding square footage by adding shelves to existing fixtures. In this kitchen, recessed shelves add clever storage to the kitchen island. Smaller cubbies store wine bottles and larger shelves store electronics, such as the telephone and stereo. Now the island is both a convenient workspace and a storage powerhouse.

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Storage Space Under the Stairs

The space under the stairs is often wasted but here a butler's pantry adds function to this underutilized area. The small space is perfect for storing rarely used serving pieces or special-occasion dishware. Another nook near the base of the stairs houses the recycling center. Roll-out bins keep recyclables separate and out of sight.

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Pots and Pans Storage

Pots and pans are kitchen essentials, but their varying shapes make them difficult to store. Rather than filling kitchen cabinets with these cumbersome items, hang them close to the ceiling. Here, a ledge above the windows holds large platters while a bar with hooks holds hanging pots and pans.

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Lovely Ledge

Small bathrooms make it difficult to store all of your bath supplies, but with a little creative planning you can find a way to make the space work. Here, a shallow marble ledge and vanity and a wall-mount faucet make the most of this tight space. Extending the ledge along the wall gives users a place to store toiletries while getting ready, which is often the biggest challenge in a small bathroom.

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Stock Up on Stock Cabinets

Make use of the space between the bathtub and ceiling by adding storage options. Here, stock cabinets and cubbies stack up to create an interesting stairstep configuration that allows the space to be used for both storage and display. Use the open cubbies for storing towels for easy access.

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To-the-Ceiling Storage

Running out of storage space in a smallbathroom? Add a to-the-ceiling cabinet to provide storage and emphasize the room's height. This solution will also keep bathroom counters clear by providing a space for supplies. Shelves also make this above-counter cabinet a good spot for display. Fill them with decorative towels, soaps, and jars that are both functional and pretty.

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Open-Closet Solution

Utilize space below a window by adding a shelf and a hanging bar. This small area is just tall enough to hang folded pants. Use the shelf to hold a charging station or small lamp to light the space. This is a good solution in a room such as an attic space that lacks traditional closets and requires open storage.

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Kid's Room Savers

Maximize storage in a kid's bedroom by using every space available. Here, shallow shelves add plenty of storage to the small wall space around the windows. A window seat provides a cozy reading spot; adding cubbies below increases the room's storage potential. Fill the cubbies with bins to create a colorful and tidy corral for toys.

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Small-Space Laundry Center

Squeezing a washing machine and dryer into any available space is a common occurrence in many homes, but what about the rest of the laundry room supplies? Add fold-out drying racks to a wall to save space while still getting all the function required of a laundry center.

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Entryway Solution

Make the most of an entry way by adding functional storage. A few hooks and a cabinet-turned-bench do wonders for the area behind a door. Add a cushion to the top of the cabinet to create a bench that provides a convenient seat for putting on boots. Add baskets underneath to store shoes, pet supplies, and mail.