Creating More Storage

PROBLEM:

This home had three different businesses operating out of it and the personal space was being eaten up by all the work related material and equipment that supported these businesses.  Their daily congregation spot was the dining room and table.  Storage space was badly needed but there was none.  Or so it was thought!

The basement had a small room packed to the ceiling with mostly empty boxes for all their equipment (for the “just in case we need to return something” times) as well as other odds and ends.  It was a perfect spot for the work related material that was needed but not on a regular basis.

ALCHEMY SOLUTION:

The owners of the boxes were persuaded to fold them down and store them in an otherwise unusable spot in the basement and move unwanted shelving from other parts of the home to this newly empty space for storage of reference material.  Out of this one small change in the use of space, they ended up saving money by re-using shelving that was otherwise going to be thrown away, and reclaiming their living room which allowed them to purchase their much dreamed about cosy couch to create a more comfortable and welcoming living room for themselves and their guests.

ORGANIZING TIP:

Instead of rushing out and buying a lot of ‘lets get you more organized’ stuff, check to see what you already have that can be used differently.  Not only will it save you money, but re-using an item in a different space or manner will create a brand new and fresh look for you and save the land fills from filling too quickly.