Let’s talk about simplifying your storage. But first, ask yourself, what is the definition of storage? According to the Webster-Merriam dictionary, it’s the space where you put things that are not being used.
{This is a sponsored post written by me
on behalf of Extra Space Storage.
The opinions and text are all mine.}
Simple Storage
This week I am working with @ExtraSpace on how storage in my she shed simplifies my life. Long gone are the days when those clear plastic pins are the only option for storing away items for future use. I’m going to take you inside my shed and give you a peek at what I do to store some of my favorite items.
Functional Storage
It’s important to remember that storage can be pretty and functional all at the same time and can fit into the designs in your home. One of my very favorite pieces of furniture is this vintage cabinet I found on a antique outing a couple years ago. As a collector of Ironstone, I needed a space that could “store” all the overflow pieces that no longer fit inside my house. After a little TLC, this piece now takes center stage in my shed. When everything is neat and organized, I definitely feel less stressed and at ease.
Carving Out A Space For Seasonal Items
If you’re like me, you’ve wasted countless hours looking for something that you put away last year but have no idea where it is. Case in point, my seasonal pillow covers. Every year when a new season approaches, I, for the life of me, cannot remember where they are. Well, this problem was solved when I carved out a dedicated cabinet to hold them all. I have no doubt that you all are much smarter than I am and came up with this solution long before now, but it was seriously a light bulb moment for me. I am the first to admit, it takes me a while to catch on. (insert over-exaggerated belly laugh here)
Storing in Plain Site
If you follow me over on Instagram, you already know a farmhouse style is what identifies me. I love all things old and vintage and as a DIYer, I needed something that would hold my enormous amount of crafting supplies. Old suitcases are a great way to camouflage my supplies and add some farmhouse flair without compromising the integrity of my style. Stack two or three on top of each other and they would even make a great end table.
Think Outside The Box
(BEFORE)
(AFTER)
This old utility cart was picked up at the same antique barn as the above cabinet. Now, you can see from the before photo that it wasn’t much to look at originally, but I knew I could perform some DIY magic and turn it into something I would love. You can really see the difference in the after photo. I encourage you to think outside the box when you’re out and about. I had no idea at the time I saw this cart what I would do with it, but it eventually came to rest in my shed and showcases some of my grandmother’s handmade quilts.
So just remember that storage can be pretty and fun and if you use it right, it can hide out in plain sight.
To read more about organizing and storage, go check out Extra Space right here. There’s so much information to be gained on how to make your life simpler. Watch their highlight reel and see how others have shared tips on decluttering and organization.
Thanks so much for stopping by.
XO
Kristi
Lori Jo says
Love your look! I used a similar stencil on pillows when I transformed to farmhouse, I still have more to do!
Lori Jo – 50 With Flair
http://www.50withflair.com
Kristi Bissell says
Thanks Lori Jo. I appreciate you stopping by so much. Have a great day!
Lynn B Spencer says
I love what I call ‘functional aesthetics’…being useful and look good doing it. That’s clearly what you’ve accomplished with your storage solutions.! Thanks for the ideas.
Hugs, Lynn
Kristi Bissell says
Thank you so much, Lynn, and I love your term functional aesthetics! I appreciate you stopping by!
Barbara Chapman ~ French Ethereal says
Love your stacked cabinet with the French writing stenciled on it! Perfect and older furniture pieces hold so much.
Kristi Bissell says
Thanks Barbara. I love old cabinets and always seem to be on the hunt for them! I appreciate you stopping by. Have a great day.
Mary says
I really like the suitcase idea. I had a bunch of them back in Greece that were vintage that I could have used as storage. Alas, I didn’t bring them with me.
Kristi Bissell says
Oh man, too bad you didn’t bring them with you. They are such a fun way to store items. Thanks so much for commenting. Have a great day.
Brenda says
I have a question…I’ve read that it is alright to mix wood colors pine\oak for example, is this true or lighter and darker colors of wood. My brother made a rude remark about mine one time and, it’s always bothered me?
Kristi Bissell says
Oh, I absolutely love mixing woods. I think it gives a space so much character when you do that. I don’t think there is any hard fast rule on not being able to mis. I have always been of the opinion that if you love it, then you do it. I’m sorry your brother’s comment has bothered you. Not everyone loves my farmhouse look, but it makes me happy so I do it. You rock it girl. I bet it looks great!
Mary Kay geiger says
Great storage is Eas!
Kristi Bissell says
I totally agree!!! Have a great day!
Sissy Davis says
Love your great ideas! Plus your style
Kristi Bissell says
Hi Sissy ~
Thank you so much for your sweet comment. I appreciate you stopping by my site. Come back again sweet friend.