100% found this document useful (3 votes)
913 views146 pages(Better Homes and Gardens Home) Better Homes and Gardens - Ideas & How-To - Storage & Organizing-Better Homes & Gardens (2009)
Better Homes and Gardens
Uploaded by
reddi.demullu007Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
Available Formats
Download as PDF or read online on Scribd
100% found this document useful (3 votes)
913 views146 pages(Better Homes and Gardens Home) Better Homes and Gardens - Ideas & How-To - Storage & Organizing-Better Homes & Gardens (2009)
Better Homes and Gardens
Uploaded by
reddi.demullu007Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
Available Formats
Download as PDF or read online on Scribd
/ 146
IDEAS & HOW-TO
hs
sath
Bedrcal
° Close John Wiley & Sons) Iie! ~
; AR IDEAS & HOW-TO
Storage &
Organizing
This book is printed on acid-free paper. @
Copyright © 2009 by Meredith Corporation, Des Moines, lowa.
Allights reserved
Published by John Wiley & Sons, Inc., Hoboken, New Jersey
Published simultaneously in Canada
No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval
system, or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic,
‘mechanical, photocopying, recording, scanning, or otherwise,
except as permitted under Section 107 or 108 of the 1976 United
States Copyright Act, without either the prior written permission
of the Publisher, or authorization through payment of th
appropriate per-copy fee to the Copyright Clearance Center, 222
Rosewood Drive, Danvers, MA 01923, (978) 750-8400, fax (978)
(646-8600, or on the web al www.copyright.com. Requests fo the
Publisher for permission should be addressed to the Permissions
Department, John Wiley & Sons, Inc., 111 River Street, Hoboken,
NJ.07030, (201) 748-601 1, fax (201) 748-6008, or online at hitp://
‘www.wiley.com/go/permissions.
Limit of Liability/Disclaimer of Warranty: While the publisher
and the author have used their best efforts in preparing this
book, they make no representations or warranties with respect
to the accuracy or completeness of the contents of this book and
specifically disclaim any implied warranties of merchantability
or fitness for a particular purpose. No warranty may be created
of extended by sales representatives or written sales materials.
‘The advice and strategies contained herein may not be suitable
for your situation. You should consult with a professional
where appropriate. Neither the publisher nor the author shall be
liable for any loss of profit or any other commercial damages,
including but not limited to special, incidental, consequential, or
other damages.
For general information about our other products and services,
please contact our Customer Care Depariment within the United
States at (800) 762-2974, outside the United States at (317) 572-
3993 or fax (317) 572-4002.
Wiley also publishes its books in a variety of electronic formats
‘Some content that appears in print may not be available in
electronic books. For more information about Wiley products,
Visit our web site at www.wiley.com,
ISBN 978-0-470-48804-1
Printed in the United States of America
0987654321 Welcome.
Chapter 1: Kitchens and Pantries.
Open and Closed Storage
Arrange Visible Storage
Island Ways:
Customize a Dresser.
Making the Most of an Island,
Customize a Base Cabinet
Drawers Plus
Gauge Drawer Quality
Pots and Pans.
Install a Hanging Pot Rack.
Utensils and Dishware.
‘More Ideas for Organizing,
Spices and Oils
Store Spices and Oils.
‘Small Appliances.
Wine.
Perfect Pantries.
Organize a Pantry.
Pump Upa Pantry Cabinet...
Storage Your Way (chart).
Chapter 2: Entries, Mudrooms & Laundries.
‘Tame the Routine.
Corral the Clutter :
‘Make a Wooden-Hanger Coatrack..
Keep It Clean.
Every Inch Counts.
Clutter Busters,
Laundry Armoire
Customize a Laundry Armoire..
ERRERESS
Chapter 3: Dining Areas.....
Match Style and Storage
PutWasted Space toWork....
More Ideas for Dining Rooms.
® Freestanding Shelves...
To: Build Free
T2888 Chapter 4: Living, Family & Media Rooms ..
Organized Living. 60
Style and Storage. at
Media Room Magic sn. 3
Organize Your Electronic Media. 65
Literary Collections. 06
Reduce the Paper Pile... or
Build a Magazine Rack. 09
Chapter 5: Home Offices
Divide and Conquer.
Plan Ahead,
Paper Control.
Dedicate Space
Drawer Organization
Turn Vertical Space into Storage
Build a Fabric Wall Bulletin Board.. 78
aiaa
Chapter 6: Master Bedrooms,
Dressing Areas & Closets
Suite Storage Sensation,
Conquer Bedroom Clutter.
Dream Closet Closeups.
A.Clean Solution.
‘Simple Solutions
Window of Opportunity _
Build Window Seat Storage nm 95
Bedroom Bonuses ee
Build a Nightstand : 97
Sener
Chapter 7: Bathrooms
‘The Ultimate Storage Bath
Boost Your Storage Capacity.
Better Built-ins
Towel Storage
You CanTake ItWith You
Linen Closet
Customize a Linen Closet.
Recessed Wall Cabinet :
Build a Recessed Cabinet,
Chapter 8:
Personalized Storage.
Customize a Cabinet
Clutter Control for Play Spaces.
Build Storage Cubes,
Busy Minds and Hands
Guest Rooms Plus
A Better Guest Closet
Shelves and Sleepovers
Bookshelf Basics...
Chapter 9: Special Spaces
Organize the Garage..
Restore Order.
InPlain Sight.
Step Up the Storage.
Just forYou
Garden Storage
Dedicated Beverage Center
Create a Dedicated
Beverage Center.
Resources.
Customize a Garden Armoire
100
108
104
107
108
110
110
12
113
is' Spaces and Guest Rooms 114
116
a7
119
119
20
122
122
124
125
131 Welcome
Ifyou open a closet that bursts with clothes, can never find the right spice
for your favorite recipe, and spend more time clearing the kitchen table than
‘eating on it, Ideas & How-To: Storage & Organizing isthe path to your success,
This book provides practical solutions to common organizational problems,
addressing everything from organi
ig closets and entryways to finding space
‘Open storage rises o “enlightened heights.
‘Doors with glass inserts ator the tonts
for hobby supplies. The concept is simple: Commit to cleaning one small
space at a time—a drawer, an armoire, a closet. In a few months all your
organizational woes will be behind you and friends will envy your storage
savvy. Sound appealing? Turn the page and get organized!
Py f-
ad 334
Pc
Peer a
pe ee
pe ec a
Peete eo BCC et ene RON ee
essential in the kitchen. Busy cooks want pots,
ACER oR CUO ana Ey
Ue Un We UR Or Lng
ORTON ESE m on Te Eat
Ae I you feel strongly about light and like to see your dishes
at a glance, your choice is either open shelves or cabinets
with glass doors. Open shelves and clear glass doors allow
‘you to quickly find what you're looking for while revealing
the colors and shapes of your belongings.
One caveat: Open storage demands that you keep
items within the cabinets or on the shelves in an orderly
manner, since they are always in view. If you like the idea
of a certain amount of color and shape remaining visible
but don't want to worry about keeping cabinet interiors
tidy, consider doors with translucent or decorative glass
panels that partially obscure what’ inside. T
seeded glass or rice paper laminated between glass panes
panels with
For those who prefer clean countertops and minimal
accessories on view, closed cabinet storage is for you. To
prevent overwhelming the kitchen with cabinetry, install
upper cabinets at varying heights and pull a few lower
cabinets forward (or select some that are deeper than
others) for visual variety. You may also want to include one
or two cabinets with glass doors and lighted interiors to
offer a resting place for the eyes as well as display space for
a few treasures,
‘io need fr lighted cabinetry inthis kitchen. Glass-ro, see-through
ron of windows eeat a su-frm-behind design while
beauty of glassware on display. Sees eee
sible trough windowpane lass doors ond artul visplayed
Nee ened
fee eee
NTCRENS ND uNTES 31 Glass-door cabinets and open shelves provide a full and
easy view of kitchen dishware, dry goods, and other
‘essentials. Observe these tips for attdy, attractive look:
+ Consider height. Store taller items at the back of the
shelf or cabinet with smaller things atthe front.
+ Sort by color. For decorative impact consider
‘grouping dishware (and even dry goods) in
collections with similar color or colors that
‘complement ane anather.
+ Watch the labels. Koop labels turned outward
and keep boxes and cans lined up—especially on
open shelves,
* Include baskets. Use wire, woven, or plastic baskets
to'store smaller andor less attractive items,
Narrow shelves, when placed near a coktp, are handy fr holding herbs,
cll, and spices. They are easy to see and reach during fod preparation.
Decorative frosted glass on cabinet doors allows or se
storage of dishes, glassware, o foo items. Colors and shapes
emai visible bt the eontens don't have to remain as iy as
things stored inside a cabinet with clear glass door.
Besides thet tshionable presentation, cube-syle
‘open shelves ensure logical organization fr often-
‘used Hos, Atractve baskets hold linens and
‘smaller items fora cluter-free appearance A center island is probably the most-requested storage feature in a kitchen
1vs litte wonder, with the abundance of storage,
single island can offer. Make the best use of counterspace by including a sink
or cooktop. Below the countertop consider a combination of cabinets, drawers,
eating, and work surface a
and open shelves, Be careful to size your island so there is plenty of walkway
space between it and perimeter cabinets. Most rules of thumb suggest at least
42 inches—48 inches is even better, especially when more than one cook
shares the work core.
‘Ausefl stan base includes a variety of storage options. This one has
calletion of cookbooks. The long sell
with three bins for recyclables and og ood,
Hf you're shopping for an island, you
‘might find what you need at a flea
market ora garage sale. Sturdy old
dressers can have both personality
and potential
1. Sand, prime, and paint.
Remove drawers and hardware.
Then sand all the surfaces and
wipe away sanding residue with a
tack cloth. Apply a coat of primer
let dy. Brush or rll one or two
coats of color.
2, Replace knobs. Select and
install new knobs or drawer
pall to complement the rest of
your kitchen.
3, Top it off. This bureau already
featured a marble top, but you
ccould add a countertop made of
solid surfacing, laminate, tile,
stainless steel, butcher block, or
‘another material that you prefer,
4, Accessorize, The sides of
this island become storage
‘workhorses with the addition of
large hooks for utensilsand a
holder for paper towels Ree
peehienrcet et Se]
erent nee
eee ey Cocos
erred ‘Make your kitchen island convenient and practical
+ Ifa cooktop is part of the plan, a downdraft vent or
‘a hood suspended from the ceiling is a necessity. You
may want your island to feature a sink andor food prep
space instead. Ifthe sink is the only one in your kitchen,
it must be deep enough (and the faucet high enough)
to wash large pots. Also consider equipping it with a
garbage disposer
Each end of the cooktop should be bordered with at
least 12-inch-wide runs of countertop
Electrical outlets located on the side of the island—
instead of on top—help prevent electrical shock.
Shelf space for cookbooks and collectibles dresses up
otherwise bare sides, A built-in TV works here too,
especially if it faces the family room. Even a microwave,
installed at an ideal height for the kids, is convenient for
heating up afterschool snacks.
Extend the countertop or recess cabinets to allow for leg
space.
+ Seating across from the cooktop is great for a quick
meal; make sure the countertop area between the chairs
and cooktop measures atleast 12 inches.
+ Rounded corners help protect children from injury
+ Countertop material can vary from the rest of your
kitchen’ counters as long as its harmonious with the
room’ overall design. You may want to splurge on solid
This centr istand bepan asa slock base cabinet and is customized with
a-on shelves and beaded board. Bins tuck ito shelves on this end to
‘store potatoes, onions and squash. A sell on the opposite end ofthe
island holds the microwave oven HOW TO CUSTOMIZE A BASE CABINET
Begin with 2 36.inch base cabinet: Use beaded-board panels to
face the cabinet, inch birch plywood for shelves and dividers,
‘and pine lumber for framing,
Build out the cabinet back with 2xts, Glue and scree
beaded panels tothe cabinet sides and cover the corner seam
with a trim piece
Glue and screw 1x2 naling cleats to side panel to later
‘support the shelves. Glue and screw shelves and top to blocks
{and cabinet. Glue and screw the slats to sides of shelves. To
reinforce one shalt to support a microwave oven, cut a 3 10
sheif wiath; nail to bottom of shetf ang to sats
‘Add shelf dividers and nail trim to shelves Install decorative
legs below bottom shelves. To finish, sand, remove sanding
reside, prime, and paint as desired, Install the countertop,
J. Stock base cabinet
Dts
Yox2-inch slats
Jeinch beaded-board panels
5. Yeinch plywood shelves and shelf dividers
3. 34d Inch facing and trim piece
. 122s for shel cleats
438 support for below microwave oven shelf
. Decorative legs
10, Countertop
surfacing material, for instance, and use laminate on
other countertops. A butcher block countertop is ideal
I youll use your island for baking—rolling out dough
and hand mixing, for instance—drop it to 32 oF 33
for food preparation; granite works well for baking
tasks
Pendant or recessed fixtures installed above the island
direct adequate light onto work surfaces.
Your island cooktop or sink can be part of your work
triangle, but be sure it at least 42 inches from any
adjacent cabinets, tables, or appliances. Expand that
width 10 a roomier 48 to 6¢ inches iftwo or mote will
work simultaneously.
For general food preparation, set the countertop 36
‘inches high, the same as most other kitchen countertops,
inches and you'll find the handwork less fatiguing.
For snack bar purposes, the standard 36-inch height
accommodates most kitchen stools. If you prefer bar-
height seating, set the counter at 42 to 45 inches; for
table height, lower it to 28 to 32 inches. Or combine a
couple of countertop heights for a multipurpose island,
Ifyou choose an enclosed cabinet base, the standard
drawer and cupboard storage options apply. For an
open design, large shelves are ideal for holding pots,
pans, and large bows.
towers 17 Designers love to infuse the kitchen with lots of drawers for a reason: You can
‘open them in one smooth motion and see all the contents from front to back.
Drawers and pullouts can be used liberally throughout your kitchen; the secret
is to size them for what you want to store—deep drawers for bulky items, such
as pots and pans, and shallow depths for silverware and knives, for example
Specialty dividers help organize lids, trays, and the ubiquitous “junk drawer
The frst step is to consider all the things you want to store in the kitchen and
plan drawer and pullout storage accordingly
your cabinet drawers and
louts take what you dish out?
39 components take a harsher
beating. f you're buying new
cabinets, check the warranty
on high-quality metal ald
sor ball
and a 76-pound lead rating or
better. Open a drawer an inch:
it
should close onits own. Open it
again, this time to the stops. TI
‘drawer shoul open smaothiy
without excessive side pay, then
stop before it exits the cabinet
soit can't accidentally spillits
contents. Other signs of quality
rawer construction include a
solid-wood face, 6 inch or thicker
sides, a plywood bottom panel
and strong corner joints that are
either doweled or dovetailed.
Avoid sides that are simply
stapled and glued together
‘Unwiely serving platters are easier to handle
wen stored in a all, arrow pullout in his
peninsula, The dishwasher in lose proximity is
‘an efficiency bonus. This pullout offers an ol-ashioned solution for string bread—the drawer Compartmentalzed drawers kop tems soparated. The
box features a pierced metal id that allows ventilation. The id slides back vers ease sorting flatware and utensis and can
to acess the cantante of the drawer. 1 aly cleaned inthe dishuash
ot undercabine space canbe pul to war rom front io back —_‘Too-icks are notor
ve pallout. This two-run counterspace by the itand toe,
liances and other smal cooking gadget {ood and water dishes. In most kitchens pots and pansare used daily: Their bulky Pullouts, drawers, and pullout shelves, which show
construction means they take up more space than most everything from front to back, are the s¢ n order
items, so they can be a chall a store. Some cooks to safely load concealed st heavy pk ans,
love to see every pot and pan they own and want to he choose units that are well constructed from solid
ith style, proudly displaying a cook’ Whichever storage strategy you prefer—ou
kware from in full view—there's an efficient and attractive means
fab what they need in a motion that’ easy on
‘Abarstyle ack mounted onthe backsplash behind the ange puts four or
« their favorite pans on display This ype o storage eliminates te need to
thet each up arto bend down o retrieve pots and pans. For best visual ete
ins tucked away in neat stacks with lids nearby. fagp the pane polished,
s, on the other hand, prefer to ha you preter to see your pots and pans bet
don't want them nfl view, store them on an
open shel. A shelf under this
steer clutter ou of sight ines
Eatra deep and wie units reveal a dovbl ayer of storage. The deeper bottom hall
{seal or bulky pts and pans wile the shallower upper pullout keeps His ty
Di
empty space aver an island o
find many sty
ative pat racks are a great way to use the
available online and in
kitchen-supply stores a rack will take onl
‘a couple of hours at the most
4. Locate the joists inthe ceiling using a stud finder
2..As much as possible, match the locations of the
Ceiling hooks with the dimensions ofthe pot rack so
that the chain
3.Foreach
ceiling haok it
into it sideways and turning until the flan
il bang
ing book drill a pilot
st by insarting a screwdriver
le ofthe rack) so that each length has the
same numberof links, Attach the chain to the pot
rack With a helper ift the rack and hang the chains
‘on the ceiling hooks
Ifyou ove to collect cookware and cant bear to tuckit
away, use a celling-mounted pot rack. Some unis include
Tighting fr duble-dty benefit. Utensils and dishware introduce armloads of items that
beg for an orderly existence. For easy retrieval group
Aatware and cooking utensils together by type and locate
them close to where they're needed—where you dine
and near the stove or food preparation stations. While
flatware is often stowed in a drawer, you must decide
whether to keep cooking utensils in view or in closed
storage. Similarly dishes may be too pretty to store behind,
closed doors, Ifso consider open racks or shelves behind
22 rose oe
glass doors. Regardless of the type of stora
upon for utensils and dishware, its a good idea to locate
he dishwasher so pieces can be
both within a few step
quickly unloaded and put away
Woden dividers keep a large quantity of latware in oder inside this
‘ep drawer. The pieces are stored with handles pointing up for safe and
easy retrieval A plate rack mounted in ton ofa window does litle t6 obstruct kitchen
wi view, Sunlight iter through the storage piece and highlights
calor ishware
Woodsen pegs placed strategically in a deep draws
‘koep dishes organized. Arange the pegs to custom-
‘ityour dishware
* Place dishware in cabinets or racks
yu dine and near the dishwasher, Store infrequent'y
Used items, such as gravy boats and c
elsewhere or up high, Keeping valuable, easy-to-reach
kitchen space for everyday needs,
+ Store plastioware for kids in reachable lower cabinets
with pullout shelving, That way your kids can learn
to help set the table and put away clean dishes from
the dishwasher
For extra storage consider space-saving furnishings
such as hanquettes with hinged tops, Such space
works well for platters, trays, chafing dishes, extra
pitchers, and tiered serving pieces you use only for
special gatherings.
stands,
Knives in slots at the back othe eating board are protected,
fingers sale, and are easy to reach during food preparation.
variety of nif sizes and styles,
ITEM suo ums 23 f
Spices and Oils
Heat, light, and moisture are the enemies of dried spices.
Heat causes flavor loss, light fades colors, and moisture
«causes ground spices to cake. When evaluating your spice
collection, put your senses to work. Use sight to assess the
vibrancy of spices and herbs; when the color fades, usually
the flavor does too, Smell crushed spices or herbs in your
hand; ifthe aroma is weak, replace them. Taste them too;
ifthe Navor is weak, replace
+ Keep spi
Don't store spices and herbs over the stove, dishwasher
's away from heat, moisture, and sunlight
or sink, or near a window. Store in tightly closed
containers,
+ Use a dry measuring spoon in containers; moisture will
cause deterioration,
+ Store red peppers—paprika, chili powder, red pepper—
in the refrigerator to retain color and freshness.
24 stage osc
+ Monitor the age of spices and herbs by putting the date
they're frst opened on the co
tha felttip pen.
+ Look for a series of black numbers and letters on the
bottom or side of the spice container (on dry-seasoning
packet mixes, the numbers and letters are pressed into
the edge ofthe packaging). The first number indicates
the year, If the number is 7, the product was packaged
in 2007. The second character identifies the month
alphabetically, asin “A” for January or
pach
Instead of sprinkling spices directly from the bottle over
a steaming pot, measure spices into another container
into the spice
for June, Some
ig indicates a “best if used by” date
then add them to the pot. Steam that
container hastens flavor loss,
Designate a drawer near the cooktop fr storing spices. Add special
‘inert tat kepsjarstitedso te labels are easy to read. When you cook,
slip the drawer ou ofthe pides and seit onthe countertop, ther return
‘he drawer when you're done. ‘Seasoning blends
two years,
Extracts—four years
ink small when it comes to spices.
the thinnest of spaces, such asthe
‘end fan island or the back ofthe counter, and
you'l beter see whats on kane
Bottles are heavy; be sure to select
high-quality heavy-duty glides so
the drawers are easy to pen
and close
Two shallow niches below an isiand
dor andthe aber
Tene ao Pas 25 Store small appliances according to how you use them.
If you use the appliance daily and have sufficient space,
keep it on
-ounter, For infrequently used ap
‘a space outside the main work core, such as on a kitchen
cart or behind clos
{ pantry doors, will keep them hidden
but accessible. Standard cal
inet sizes can handle most
small appliances, and accessories such as roll-out shelves
and raised platforms can aid in lifting those that are heavy.
An outlet inside an appliance garage puts power where
you need it. Another tip is to create convenient stations
for appliances that are used at the same time, such as a
beverage station with a coffeemaker, a coffee grinder, and
an espresso machine.
‘An “appliance garage" makes good use ofthe space between upper and
lower cabinets. A tambour dor doesn't swing out and therefore doesa't
Inter with ems onthe couna. An electrical ute alls appliances
,—__lobeeasly plugged in and ready for use.
tardware makes i possible to store a heavy-duty mixer on a
Buby, seldom-used appliance, such this bread maker, soe out ofthe cabinet shel, Open the cabinet dors and pull he shal! up and out
way onthe bottom rack of rallng cart. The cartrols ina an ndercounter bring the mixer to user‘riendly height. Include an oul a the back of he
alcove when notin use. Cabinet so the mixer is ready to use
26 sre GANG ine out of areas that
undergo drastic t are fluctuations, such as the top of the refrigerator or
near the stove. By wine racks under counters andor islands or between
Is wor
1. They also keep wine tilted, so the cork
remains mo font seep in and ruin the flavor. Bottles can be stored
upright but only for short pe
dessert wi
so you can quickly find the p
so you'll be able to drink the
is may want to invest in a refrigerated wine cabinet. (The best
+ vintage. Then organize them
tion da
wine at its peak of flavor.
temperature for storing wine is between 50°F and 60°F with 60 to 70 percent
humidity.) Mo come in freestanding or undercounter
models and hold a minimum of 24 bottles. Aetrigerated coles are specially designed
forkeeping win atthe right temperature and
‘humid. Store win bots on her sides so
‘heir cons stay moist
refrig ne Tsar todas
eee aes
errs
een ty
SEE ee
tt According to a survey by the National Association of
Home Builders, 85 percent of respondents included a
walk-in pantry on their kit
nn wish list. Fortunately this
much-sought-after storage space is no longer considered
a high-end amenity. And you don't need a huge kitchen
to incorporate a pantry (walk-in or otherwise). Specialty
pantry cabinets that store an abundance of goods are
available. Creative design can
nsform small recesses,
unused corners, broom clasets, and otherwise wasted
space into a walk-in style pantry.
To get the most out of your pantry, opt for adjustable
shelving so you can adapt the space to changing storage
needs. The shelves should stand no higher than 7 feet off
the floor—the height most people can safely reach from
a step stool. If the shelves are extra deep (more than 12
inches), consider a roll-out unit for easier access to items
stored toward the back
Remember there no law that says pantries are only for
storing food. Feel free to keep linens handy by draping
them over mounted dowel rods in a cabinet or hanging
them from pants hangers on a standard closet rod. Use
ertical dividers to store bulky platters and cookie sheets.
You might be surprised where you can fa pantry. Once a doorway
Int a bathroom, this shallow panty was constructed til the opening.
‘Asereen door lends a playful touch and keeps the contents on view.
UTOHAS WD NTE 29 dividers for holding flatware
ace as well. Free |
counterspace by installing electrical outlets in the pantry
A pantry can be a worki
for using countertop appliances such as coffeepots, stand
creating a special work zone, such as a baking center with
2 pullout mixer stand or a beverage center with open wine
storage and handy pullout shelving. With the addition of
a sink and countertop, you can enjoy an old-fashioned
butler’ pant
aan annex that eases preparation, servi
However simple or elaborate the
anization is the key to an efficient pantry. If there no
method to your storage madness, the pantry can easily
tum from efficient annex to cluttered catchall
Reminiscent ofan old general store, glass jars and harvest bushels keep
‘this pantry well organize. Clear r open containers make ieasy to
inventory your suplies nd krow when youre running out ls specite
food or drink.
Follow this strategy to conquer clutter in afood pantry
cabinet or walkin
+ Empty the pantry. Check labels to see if any food is
ration date, Also throw away items that no
that are unlikely o be eaten,
. ms. Separate foad items into categories,
pastas, soups, and oils. Turn items
ard and position on shelves with
+ Reduce the clutter. Snack bags and small packs
such as instant spice mixes, look messy and their
labels are difficult to read. Instead st
in clear plastic containers that stack. Flip-top lids
work particularly well
hese items
Coordinated baskts organize staples and produce inthis iy wal-in
Dairy. Most basket ends have hand grips for easy transport tothe counter
tr table. Open shelves make selecting ceramics and dinnerware a breeze,
Plastic ins and containers are strage-riendly panty alternatives. 2, Roll on a chalkboard,
ate
3. Produce a place for pinups, Using a straightedo
and a utility knife, trim a sheet of adhesive-back cork
oft
1 recessed por
off the backing and
pushpins toh
in place until you n
ing order with containers. Purchase plastic
iners for easy-to-see, tidy storage of
ugar, flour, and other staples.
5. Create magnetic display space. Purch:
est: metal panel from a hom
ta the door using an adhe:
metal. Clamp until ry. URL ae
Solo Act,
You often cook for one but still
believe your kitchen should be
efficient and well-equipped for
cet-togethers.
Couple/No Kids
Maintain comfort in yourshared
‘space by planning smart, flexible
storage that simplifies tandem
meal preparation and party prep.
Family Affair
Ensure a tidy and safe culinary
hub with a design that keeps
items handy and helps young ones
pitch in
Empty Nesters
‘Your dream kitchen is the one you
can use for years to come. Blend
accessibility, personality, and
hospitality,
232 ssc onan
CABINETS,
Reduced-depth cabinets allow units to
stack without reducing counter work
area. Rollout trays make contents
in base cabinets more accessible.
Top-hinged wall cabinets occupy less
aisle space than those with side-hinged
doors. A base cabinet on casters can
double as a mobile island ora handy
serving cart. Doorless cabinets display
small collections.
‘An angled drawer insert, a doorrmount
rack, or undercabinet shelves organize
spices. Tambour door cabinets hide
blenders, coffee grinders, and other
‘small appliances and keep countertops
clear An sland with sink or cooktop
Creatas a second workstation: buy
duplicate food-prep basics and provide a
backup wastebasket
‘Afull-height pantry stocks staples and
paper goods. A below-counter niche
for the microwave oven allows kids
to heat snacks without climbing or
reaching. Countertop heights of 32 or
‘2Biinches sult sharter helpers; a
slide-out platform in the toe-kick
ives them a boost. Tray dividers and
bulk.ingredient drawers cater to bakers.
Chooie kid-friendly finishes that
‘clean easly
‘An sland and barstools just outside
the work core create. gathering spot
fordinner guests. Rollout drawers and.
‘traysand pop-up miner stands reduce
bending and lifting. Open shelves
display cookbook spines lke artwork
‘A cutting board or slide-out table adds
a sit-down work surface, Drawerson
base cabinets are more efficent and
‘accessible than doors—especially from
wheelchair.
‘As you design your kitchen storage and life changes, convenience is key, Here's a guide to storage thraugh the stages of life.
ACCESSORIES
\Wal-mount grids, pegboard, and
rail systems keep frequently used
ingredients and utensils handy.
‘Adjustable dividers make the most of
limited drawer space. Tiered stands
‘maximize cabinet interiors’ storage of
canned goods. Instead of a hanging
rack, consider a pot rail mounted to
the wall or an end cabinet
Convert an armoire toa bar cabinet
‘by mounting a wine rack inside. Or
hhang awine rack on a wall or stand it
nthe countertop. Freestanding wire
shelves showcase colorful canisters,
dinnerware, serving pieces, and
table linens. Baskets and oversize
‘wood bowls corral fresh fruits and
vegetables.
If desk space is nonexistent, install a
pull-down message center near the
jBhone. pulldown knife rack keeps
cutlery out of toddlers reach, Turntables
minimize disarray inside cabinets.
CCoated-wire carts are light enough
for kids to maneuver Baskets, bins,
nd jars store afterschool snacks and
homowork and crafts project needs.
I's return to the basies—but not to
a budget—with accessories that are
‘scaled down fora party of two. Pick
ton-ofthe-line units that easily store
‘and are dishwasher-safe. Consider
‘weeding out the clutter of litie-used
items, moving them to a separate
‘storage unit in the basement or
garage. FooD
‘Cooking for one serves up its own,
‘challenges but that shouldn't ston you
from exploring your taste bud
temptations. Learn basic food-
‘organizing principles (group by type
in stackable sealed containers) that
set you off on a surefire path toa
well-honed pantry. Ifa night of
‘cooking eaves you with leftovers,
freeze them or store up to three days
in the refrigerator
—
Dinner parties area regular
nce in many couples’ social
.s0 youll want plenty of pantry
Use clear plastic containers to
‘organize food, allowing family
5 membersto easily see what's
avaliable. Create a kid-happy food
zone: Stash healthy items in snack-
size containers within easy reach,
allowing kids to help themselves to
both room-temperature and chilled
items. If children are old enough
and space allows, alowerheight
microwave oven allows them to heat
food on their own,
BAKING/COOKING DISHES
Time to toss the paper plate
bonanza that got you through
your college years. Build your
collection ay starting with basics:
‘ight large and small plates,
bowls, and coffee cups in a pain
color and pattern, Include a simple
silverware set for eight, too, a5
‘wall as basic serving bowls,
platters, and utensils in any must
have lst. Check for dishwasher:
and microwave-safe ratings.
Review your pats and pans: Include
large and small saute pans and large
and small cooking pots with lids as
starter cooking sets. Stash cookie
sheets and lids with upright dividers to
‘max out minimal cabinet space. Avoid
buying supplies for cookie baking in
bulk the space sacrifice isnt worth the
extra 5 pounds of flour.
Take time to stock a wide range of
baking and cooking items, Round out
‘your cake pans with both 8: and inch
‘versions, and add another midsize saute
‘pan to your collection, Test out beyond.
the-basic appliances, such asa juicer,
blender, or top-notch food processor.
Expand your dishware repertoire
‘past boring white with a collection
‘of specil-occasion items—great
wineglasses, serving platters,
‘even aset of china, Group similar
‘collections for visual and physical
accessibility ellowing you to see
Stash rarely used items at head
height or above and keep aften-
used dishes right around waist
level, Devote one cabinet fo plastic
dishes, glasses, and utensils so
kids can help themselves. You!
likely have more than one set of
dishes, so considera stand-alone
Uniti the kitenen or dining room
tostash special-occasion items,
Ifa cooktop on an island is part of
your kitchen design, include a raised
backsplash, or ledge, atthe back to
protect anyone atthe snack bar side
from hot splatters. Folding step stools
boring kids up to helping height but stash
easily na pantry closet, Remember
to go vertical: Organize cookie sheets,
‘cutting boards, and baking pans upright
‘tomax out space.
‘ITONENS AND pueTES 33 De CRB CCRC RUE CL CLR ia}
‘equipment, and laundry are just a few of the
items that clutter hardworking utility areas on
BCC OCHO Buco re Cur ECO et Cid
OC aC De USCS UL
you'll spend less time picking up and more time
doing what you love. 3 Tame the Routine
The secret to organizing mudrooms and entryways is to catch the cutter before
it makes its way into the rest of the hot
Think of the first th
member does when stepping inside th
and kick:
ont door: Drops the keys, dumps
the b If the shoes. Ev
es, the right furniture and
is can make it as easy to put t
e items away as it isto drop
them on the floor,
Install a shelf equip;
phones. Use a pretty jar to c
and add a bench with cubbies for taki
time, you can transform a dumping
ets 10 catch Keys and cell
Il hooks to hang up coats
d with a couple of b
n organizational zone that
welcomes family and guests alike.
This custom-built vider catches al the gear
that comes trough the front door an
ior elear of utr. Shaves and cubes
sized to hold a weeks worth of gear. Ne ee ey
ee eer ere
Pee eens Eliminate the entryway and mudroom mayhem with these
quick tips for organizing family supplies
+ Keep everyday items within easy reach—it makes coming,
and going a much quicker and easier process
* Ifyou opt for built-in storage, make sure the design you
choose can keep up with your child and family’s needs.
+ If your entry is short on space, place a bin for each child
near the stairs or hallway that leads to the bedrooms,
+ Install a chalkboard by the back door and write notes
and reminders in a print large enough to draw attention.
+ Put a basket on the kitchen desk to serve as a drop-off
point for important school papers
* Give everyone a hook at his or her height to make
hanging up coats effortless. Install additional hooks for
backpacks, sports bags, purses, and the dogs leash.
rance connect a hot tub and
ubbias above the Bench provide
esas bench sat. The drawers feature
can quickly stash what he
‘Select frishings ike these that
Aer) Tr mKh oot
Pasa) Leia
This backtor entrance doubles as a pet center and
provides storage for do food, pet bows, and other
‘supple, The ted shower tll i gretfor cleaning
‘muddy paws, boots, and shoes
Put your wooden hangers to work in anew way: Use
them to create a pretty and functional coatrack. Attach
shortened hangers toa Ixé.as shown by screwing the
hangers in place on the backside of the board.
Attach the coatrack to the wall by mounting heavy:
duty picture hangers ante the back ofthe tx
Space the picture hangers so that you can attach
the rack to wall studs
Insta a dain by the ack door and let boots,
‘umbrelas, swimsuits, and other wet tems dip
‘yo puddle cleanup required.
40 sms onunzne Your laundry room may be a dedicated room or it may
shate space with a basement, mudroom, bathroom, or
kitchen, Whatever the case make ita pleasant area to work
by creating a specific place for stashing dirty clothes and
hhanging and folding clean ones. If you have the space,
installa flat counter-height surface for soning and folding
laundry, then add a shelf above the counter for stashing
supplies. If space is limited,
‘ou can fold clothes on top
bove the washer, be
Alive of space provides convenient storage
This storage caddy tucks between the washer
and dyer
Purchased from a home center, this
freestanding cabinet holds a laundry
basket for each family member.
sure to allow enough space for opening and closing the
machine’ lid
Baskets are ideal for eliminating piles on the floor—
make sure they are open-weave to allow air to circulate
A wall-mounted drying rack that folds back into place is
another practical addition. Leftover cabinets from a bath
remodeling or a rolling caddy and some wire shelving can
filla need. Every Inch Counts
If your laundry area is limited to a small closet, use the
‘open space above the washer and dryer to sort colors into
canvas bags hung acrossa closet rod, as shown on pay
Give the closet an extra design dash by painting the wall:
a favorite color
I your washer and dryer are housed in a guest bath
or the garage, consider hiding the machines behind
bifold cabinetry doors. Asa space-saving alternative, invest
in a stackable washer and dryer and tuck them inside
a ventilated closet. Use the extra floor space to create a
storage closet complete with she!
Storesup
and organi
uch as carpet cleaners and spot removers
in plastic baskets or bins so you can easily transport them
to the trouble spots. A chest of dra
is an excellent
storage addition: Apply stenciled labels so everyone in the
family knows what is stored inside.
«4 stouse «onan
aad
Piles of clothing, bottles of detergent, and laundry
baskets can quickly take aver a laundry area, To keep
pes of storage. Here are
p in mind
+ Find room for an ironing board. Install a pull-down
ironing board that's built into a cabinet or door. You
can also find easy-to-install racks that hold the board
at home centers and hardware stores.
Include shelves or cubbies. Use ope storage to
detergents and
Include space for clothes that need to air dry.
stall a closet rod above a utlty sink or bet
wall-hung cabinets,
rns
fe
ees "Mudroom and laundry areas are ideal or string pet fods ad feeding
bowls. Ths pullout bin stores large bap of kibble.
Buitin cats some wit ed lass
NTIS, umROONS 6 AOHORES 47 a r
is classy laundry center is an ideal addition to an apartment or second home.
Start with an unfinished wood cabinet (sold at unfinished furniture stores) Fill any
dents or dings in the wood with wood filer and let dry. Sand the surfaces lightly and
wipe with a tack rag. Then stain or prime and paint as desired. Because the cabinet
is ina high-moisture environment, top the paint or stain with one or more coats of
a clear sealer, such as polyurethane.
This cabinets interior, opposite, is as attractive as its exterior, Pretty baskets,
boxes, and jars keep detergent, bleach, fabric softener, and other mundane supplies
within easy reach,
‘Turn an unfinished piece of furniture into'an armoire
that neatly stores everything you need for laundry day
(except the washing machine)
41. Give the cabinet a one-of-a-kind look by color washing
the door insets and crown molding a soft shade of
blue or your favorite color.
2. Customize the interior with handy wire racks you can
‘screw into the doors or place on an existing interior
helt. In ether location the racks put spot removers
‘and ironing supplies in plain view and within easy
reach, Install a whiteboard for jotting down to-do
lists,
3. Add a tote basket that allows youto take all the
laundry supplies to the washing machine in one trip.
4, Repurpose ready-made organizers to store what
Yu use most. In this armoire a former belt-and:-tie
‘organizer screws into the inside of the right door and
holds fragrant sachets. A shower caddy attached to
the opposite door halds soaps and fabric fresheners,
5. A cotton bag slung over the door isjust the thing for
holding clothespins neatly. The strap slips over your
shoulder when i's time to haul the clothes basket
cutside to the line
6.A spacious bottom section of the armoire—created
by removing some shelves—is ideal for storing a
folded drying rack and canvas hampers, When the
ironing is done, hang the folded board on a hanger
mounted on the armoire's exterior. |
‘picked and color-washed finish combines wit od-ashoned doo pulls
‘to make this cabinet the periectaddtion oa classic eotage-style home.
