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!
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!