Posted by Megan Houston on Tue, Nov 17, 2009 @ 10:42 AM
by Carol Carruth & Elizabeth Warren, edited by Megan Houston
It's a common theme in today's world: how to do more in less time. The desire to manage time and schedules most effectively, to meet obligations and still relax once in a while, influences the realm of home design and décor in terms of organization and efficiency in closets, offices, pantries and more. Not too long ago, homes were built without much thought to closets and storage. At Otter Creek we work with clients in their existing homes as well as new construction, and we've seen everything from closets without enough depth to fit a shirt hanger, to no closets at all. But the current trend in homebuilding allots 1%-2% of the construction costs to closet and storage systems, or $3,000-$6,000 for a $300,000 home.
The benefits of this investment are clear, since busy people do not have time to deal with disorganized homes. We all want to grab what we need -- when we need it -- without having to dispatch a coordinated search party. No one wants to be late for work because two matching shoes eluded us again. Compartmentalized storage systems allow us to see everything at a glance, reducing stress and anxiety and getting us out the door on time.
Here's another benefit: custom closet systems store so much more than a traditional rod and shelf that many people are able to give up the dressers in the bedroom. Wouldn't you rather have a comfy sitting area, a nice cozy armchair or perhaps a writing desk in the bedroom instead of a boring bank of drawers? Enlist the help of an experienced professional closet designer and enjoy an average gain of 30-50% more storage capacity, using adjustable shelving, multiple hanging heights, drawer units, and accessory storage options to create spaces that accommodate the specific wardrobe of your lifestyle.
These days, organization at home also includes the home office. Now that most households contain at least one computer, many homeowners dedicate a full room for office space, customized with the appropriate size and number of file drawers and shelves. In other homes where space is at a premium, transform an alcove or reach-in closet into an efficient office with a built-in desk and wall unit fitting the space precisely. Some families even incorporate other needs like arts and crafts centers or even a gift wrapping area.
People who love to cook and spend a lot of free time in the kitchen often come to us for help with pantry storage. If there isn't a designated pantry space, wall units can be created with pull-out trays for canned goods, pull-out rattan baskets for perishables, racks designed for trays and cookie sheets, wine racks, stemware holders, spice racks and multiple drawer sizes.
Garage systems and mudrooms are also important for home organization. Durable materials like heavy duty dovetailed drawers with aluminum edges and slat walls with an array of hooks, bins, and magnets to accommodate all kinds of tools and gear in the garage. We find that mudrooms are especially efficient when designed with personal spaces for each family member. When each person has their own area for coats, shoes, backpacks, and other personal belongings, the space stays neat, organized and functional. Built-in benches are a favorite with our clients for added for convenience and extra storage underneath.
Custom closet and storage trends are all about creating a place for everything to store items more efficiently and attractively. Maximize the spaces you use every day and reap the benefits of your investment in time saved and less stress.