Maximize your indoor real estate

Move over, spring cleaning. It’s time for some autumn arranging. Small spaces can be particularly challenging to maximize storage. Our first instinct is to tackle an overflowing closet, but clever storage solutions extend far beyond existing shelving.

Canadian astronaut Chris Hadfield has spoken about how living aboard the International Space Station changed the way he thought about storage. In space, every direction counts, which reveals how much vertical space we overlook at home. Here’s a shift in perspective featuring expert advice on storage solutions that are truly out of this world.

Up your thinking

Often, builder-grade closets aren’t making the most of the available space. “Most builders put the closet rod at around 5 ½ feet, so there’s usually a lot of wasted space above and below,” says Shaun Oriold, owner and ACSP Certified Designer at Closet Envy in Waterdown. “We use that space more efficiently by going taller and giving people more options for storage. Drawers, shelving, and double hanging all contribute to better use of space and, just as importantly, allow you to see what you own.”

Robert Barich, president of Shelving & More in Hamilton, agrees. “Most closets just have a basic builder shelf with a rod, and there’s so much more that can be done.” He recommends incorporating features like shoe shelves, multipurpose towers, built-in drawers and accessories such as valet rods, slide-out mirrors, and laundry hampers.

For small spaces, Brad Neill, owner of Space Age Shelving in Burlington, recommends AdjustAshelf. “This upgraded wire shelving can be installed with vertical standards that hang below, but the design can change depending on the customer’s needs,” he explains. “It’s easy to install, high-quality, can be mixed with custom melamine and can be adapted to any closet, living, or workspace.”

Get hung up on design

Whether you’re organizing a closet, pantry, entryway or garage, the goal isn’t simply to add storage; it’s to create a system that works for your daily routine.

“Everyone is different, and everyone has different storage needs,” says Barich. “It’s important to see what each individual is looking to store and how they would like to store it.” His team recently worked on a project in Ancaster that showcased functionality with high-end finishes.

“The closet was finished in black with gold hardware and featured a centre island with 16 drawers and an imported granite top from Italy. We included everything from a multipurpose tower for shoes, folded items, hats and purses, double hanging for shorter clothing items, and long hanging space for dresses and suits in garment bags.”

Oriold says closets aren’t the only space that can benefit from efficient design. One space that gets overlooked and can have a big impact is the garage.

“An organized garage can change your life,” he explains. “A durable floor coating, cabinets to hold and hide things, and slatwall to help get yard tools and bikes off the floor can go a long way with eliminating clutter and freeing up space.”

Neill confirms he has seen an uptick in customers looking to maximize their spaces at home. “When it comes to the trends we are seeing, people are doing more research online and scrolling through social media to get ideas, then coming to us to create the vision.”

Use space wisely

Vertical storage works best when paired with thoughtful editing of what’s being stored. Before adding shelves or organizers, take stock of items and eliminate ones you no longer need.

“I always laugh when I see a suitcase or two or three taking up prime real estate in a closet,” says Oriold. “If you travel once a year, surely those can go somewhere else.”

When you’re evaluating your space, look for seasonal items that can move to higher shelving, leaving everyday essentials within reach, and remember that walls can work just as hard as floors by using hooks and knobs. Stacking pantry bins or adding shelving above a laundry machine can make every inch of space fully functional.