Storage isn’t just about finding places to put things, it’s about designing a home that feels calm, uncluttered, and easy to live in. The best solutions don’t fight the layout; they work with it. Before you call on new house interior designers in Glen Ellyn to map out your dream space, it’s worth thinking through how storage can support your daily routine in each room. From subtle built-ins to hidden compartments, the right storage plan blends effortlessly into the design, and quietly transforms how your home functions.

How do I organize storage in my home?

Organizing storage doesn’t mean every room needs floor-to-ceiling cabinetry. It means understanding how you use each space, and designing storage that feels natural, not forced. Below, we walk through smart, stylish storage ideas that work across the home, without compromising on design.

Kitchen: Storage that complements the design

The kitchen is one of the most storage-heavy rooms in the house, but it’s also the one where aesthetics matter most. Cabinets shouldn’t just hold your cookware, they should enhance the flow and look of the space. Custom drawer inserts, vertical dividers for trays, and deep pull-outs for pots all add usability without crowding the layout.

Smart storage also means accounting for small appliances, pantry staples, and recycling bins in a way that doesn’t dominate the kitchen. Whether it’s a hidden appliance garage or sleek open shelving that matches your materials, storage here should feel like a continuation of the kitchen design, not a last-minute add-on.

Bathroom: Maximize vertical and underutilized spaces

Bathrooms often come with layout limitations, so storage needs to be clever. Think recessed niches in the shower, floating vanities with drawers, or mirrored medicine cabinets with hidden shelving. Even a small powder room can benefit from wall-mounted cabinets or custom millwork around the sink.

The goal is to keep essentials at hand like towels, toiletries, cleaning supplies, without creating clutter. Materials matter here too. Use moisture-resistant finishes and hardware that matches your bathroom’s overall tone to maintain a seamless look.

Living room: Blending storage with style

In a living room, storage has to be subtle. Built-ins around a fireplace, a low media console, or even a custom window seat can add storage without feeling like storage. Open shelving gives you room to display while closed cabinets hide the mess.

Storage in this space should also support how you live, whether it’s a space to hide toys, store extra throws, or keep tech organized. The trick is finding furniture and architectural details that do double duty without standing out.

Bedroom: Storage that feels calm, not cluttered

Bedrooms should feel restful, and the wrong kind of storage can disrupt that. Go for a mix of hidden and open solutions like under-bed drawers, built-in closets, or wall-mounted nightstands with concealed compartments.

If space is limited, consider extending closets vertically or integrating wardrobe walls with clean, minimal finishes. Even a headboard with integrated shelves can give you a little more function without adding bulk.

Entryway: Built for everyday function

First impressions matter, and your entryway sets the tone. But it also sees the most foot traffic and daily mess. That’s where thoughtful storage matters most. Bench seating with lift-up lids, cubbies for shoes, and hooks for coats keep things streamlined.

Custom lockers or built-ins can work wonders, especially in busy households. Materials here should be durable and easy to clean, but the design should still match the tone of the rest of the home.

Looking for new house interior designers in Glen Ellyn? You found your team!

Storage should never feel like an afterthought. It should be built into the design from the very beginning, planned with intention, shaped around how you live, and styled to fit your space in DuPage County. That’s where our design-build approach comes in. From conceptual design and bid procurement to full interior design, we guide every step with transparency and professionalism.

Whether we’re creating seamless storage in your kitchen, integrating built-ins into your home office, or designing custom solutions throughout the house, Ember & Brune makes sure function and style work together!

 

Your home office shouldn’t feel like an afterthought. It deserves the same attention to detail as your kitchen or living room, especially if it’s where you spend most of your day. The challenge? Balancing aesthetics with real function, without turning your space into something that feels too formal or too relaxed. Before you get in touch with a full home interior designer in Glen Ellyn, it helps to get clear on what makes a home office feel productive and stylish. Let’s break it down!

How do I design a home office?

From small nooks to dedicated rooms, there’s no one-size-fits-all formula, but there are a few core elements that can make or break your space. Think less about corporate rules and more about what helps you focus. Here are the essentials to keep in mind when building a home office that looks good and works hard:

1. Start with the layout

The layout of your home office sets the tone for how you move and work in the space. Instead of defaulting to the traditional desk-against-the-wall setup, consider what actually supports your day-to-day routine. Do you need space for spreading out documents? Do you prefer to face a window for natural light or keep distractions behind you?

Consider how you enter and exit the space, how often you get up, and whether your workflow is mostly digital or requires physical storage. A layout that mirrors your habits will naturally feel more intuitive and less rigid – exactly what a home office should be.

2. Let lighting set the mood

Harsh overhead lights don’t do anyone any favors, especially when you’re trying to concentrate for hours on end. A well-designed home office layers natural light, ambient lighting, and focused task lighting. Start by maximizing daylight and position your desk near a window if possible, but avoid glare directly on your screen.

Then think in layers: a warm overhead fixture adds comfort, a desk lamp provides focused illumination, and subtle accent lighting (like LED strips under shelves) can boost ambiance without distraction. Lighting affects everything from energy to eye strain, so treat it as a central design feature, not an afterthought.

3. Work-ready furniture with a design edge

That sleek designer chair might look good on Pinterest, but if it leaves you shifting every five minutes, it’s not doing its job. Choose ergonomic pieces that support you through long sessions, but don’t settle for generic corporate styles. You can find seating and desks that balance comfort, scale, and aesthetics – think soft curves, natural materials, or even vintage pieces reimagined for work use.

If your space is shared or multipurpose, consider convertible furniture: desks that fold, ottomans with storage, or custom built-ins that blend seamlessly with the rest of your home’s design.

4. Storage you’ll actually use

The most beautiful office in the world can quickly turn into chaos without practical storage. The key is to keep the tools you use most within reach and tuck everything else away. Opt for closed cabinets to hide the clutter, open shelves to display what inspires you, and drawers for easy access to everyday items.

Want a cleaner aesthetic? Built-in storage can keep things sleek while maximizing vertical space. And don’t forget cable management. Nothing ruins the vibe faster than a tangle of cords.

5. Mix texture, color, and personality

This is where your home office can stand apart. A few intentional choices like a moody wall color, a textured rug, or artwork that actually means something to you, can change how the space feels. Layering tactile elements like linen, leather, wood, or metal adds dimension and keeps things from feeling sterile.

Color psychology also plays a role. Blues and greens promote calm, while warm neutrals feel grounded. Add something personal, whether it’s a bookshelf full of your favorite reads or a pinboard for creative ideas. It’s a workspace, but it’s still part of your home.

6. Don’t forget the acoustics

Sound matters more than most people realize, especially in meetings or when you’re trying to focus. Hard surfaces echo, and noisy backgrounds are distracting. Add soft materials like curtains, rugs, or upholstered furniture to absorb sound naturally. If you’re in a particularly echo-prone space, acoustic panels or even strategically placed bookcases can help buffer the noise. Working in peace is a productivity booster. Plus, a quiet, well-designed space helps you stay focused longer without fatigue.

Where can I find a reputable full home interior designer in Glen Ellyn?

Our design-build team in Glen Ellyn handles everything from material selection and architectural drawings to full project management, making your renovation process seamless from start to finish. Whether it’s designing a kitchen with smart storage that actually complements your layout, or incorporating architectural statement details that give your home real character, Ember & Brune blends functionality with bold, cohesive design. Schedule a consultation with our specialists today!