Resolved to clean up your act this year? Tackle one room at a time with these easy tips on how to organize and declutter your home.
1. Entryway
Keep the foyer uncomplicated. The simplest entry halls, such as this one by designer Peter Dunham, provide a place to temporarily set packages down and some seating for pulling off foul-weather gear.
Related: 20 Decorating Secrets
2. Office
Add tall shelves to take advantage of all available space. This office by architect David Mann also functions as a library, where custom shelving units provide enough space for books, photos, and decorative pieces.
Related: Perfectly Organized Home Office
3. Closet
Get creative with storage options. Interior designer Melissa Warner converted a spare bedroom into an office. She wallpapered the sliding closet doors, giving the room instant color and patterns - and a place to stash supplies.
Related: Closet Cleaning Tips
4. Living Room
Mount shelves on the wall. Interior designer Lindsey Bond eliminated the need for more furniture in this modern media room by installing a low shelf on either side of the fireplace.
Related: Find Your Living Room Style
5. Bedroom
Keep clothing and accessories off of the bed, but gain extra surface space using a bench at the foot, like in this bedroom by design consultant Smith Hanes. It serves as a place to stash reading material or extra blankets and pillows.
Related: Easy Home Decorating Ideas
6. Bathroom
Incorporate furniture pieces into the bathroom and the space becomes a welcome space to relax, as designer Windsor Smith has done in this Los Angeles home. "I love bathrooms that feel like rooms rather than just a place to bathe," she says. A George III-style secretary bookcase by Robert & Robert takes the place of a traditional built-in vanity and adds ample storage space. If your bathroom is large enough, try dragging in a dresser from another room.
Related: Beautiful Designer Bathrooms
7. Kitchen
"Baskets and trays are very homey and useful, not just for carrying things but also to organize collections," says homeowner Patrick Wade. Try using one to instantly free up precious counter space.
Related: Colorful Kitchens
What room or project do you finally plan to tackle this year?
PLUS: SEE MORE EXPERT ORGANIZING TIPS
More from House Beautiful:
- One-Day Home Makeover: Before and After Photos
- Brilliant Ideas for a Tiny Kitchen
- Eye-Popping Headboard Designs
- Bedroom Designs We Love
- Get More Creative Ideas for Your Home: Subscribe to House Beautiful Magazine
Reprinted with permission of Hearst Communications, Inc.
