Smart Storage: How To Keep Things Hidden In A Small Space

How Interiors Experts Improve Storage In Their Homes
Messy pile of clothes on the sofa
TimHesterPhotography via Getty Images
Messy pile of clothes on the sofa

Britons don't fair well when it comes to space. Our homes are half the size they were than in the 1920s, according to the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA).

Our new-build homes are the smallest in Western Europe, which means the average one-bed new build is only the size of a London Underground carriage, RIBA pointed out in a campaign last year.

So what do we do to improve our domestic wellbeing? Well, campaigning alongside RIBA to improve home building regulations is one thing.

But in the meantime you need to get practical with your space.

Interiors lover and TV presenter Anthea Turner suggests starting with small improvement.

"Baked bean tins are brilliant for storage in sheds, garages or work rooms. Just take the wrapper off and spray paint them any colour you want. It’s a novel way to store stationery and any bits and bobs you have floating around."

For those who need bigger storage solutions, Turner suggest opting for lightweight storage boxes that you can easily stack on top of one another, as well as move easily.

"Choosing a translucent material will mean your contents are covered up but allows you to still find what you’re looking for," adds the presenter, who has recently launched home storage collection NEAT.

As the inhabiter of a tiny one bedroom flat, Heather Milner, editor of interiors blog Blomma London, says she is no stranger to storage challenges.

"With every piece of furniture you buy, whether its a bed or a coffee table, consider the storage options it gives you," she says.

"It's a small thing but a coffee table with drawers will keep the everyday clutter of remote controls, magazines and books out of the way making a huge difference to the sense of calm in the room."

Here are eight more tips from industry experts!

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