Making SPACE
Making SPACE
OFFICES
GARAGES
A garage is the epitome of a multi-purpose room . We use our garages as laundry rooms , car storage , and even as workshops . There ’ s always a wide variety of material that calls the garage home , so when it comes to storage , there isn ’ t much available space . To get the most out of your garage , you ’ ll want to invest in floor-to-ceiling shelves . These shelves should be of durable quality , such as wire shelving with steel-reinforced brackets . Install the shelves from top to bottom , putting smaller , thinner shelves towards the ceiling , and creating a wider surface as you move down the walls . In otherwise useless corners , you can purchase hooks to hang tools and other smaller items . Storage bins are supported for additional storage here , but it is suggested that clear bins are used , so items inside can be seen .
Work tables are a great addition to any garage , but may need to be moved at times . For this reason , opt for a sawhorse-style table that can be folded up and put away to provide additional floor space . If you have a washroom or laundry room located in your garage , take the same shelving measures there , also . This will keep chemicals , such as bleach and detergent , off of the floor and out of reach in this high-traffic space . Go through all unused or old items in your garage and host a garage sale for the items that you ’ re willing to part ways with . You may even earn enough money to pay for the new shelves !
Home offices are imperative for those of us who spend most of our time working at home , so having the maximum amount of storage in the office is crucial . Instead of purchasing the usual storage items , such as bins and baskets , go for something more aesthetically appealing , such as a large bookshelf or cabinet that can easily hide paperwork and files that should be kept out of sight anyway . If your home office space is on the smaller side , go for lighter colors in the storage shelves and keep as much floor space open as possible . This will increase the room ’ s size visually , without actually adding square footage . The light colors give off an illusion of a larger space as well , because darker colors usually confine the area and constrict the walls . Storage bins should be replaced with a sturdy filing cabinet , where folders and the likeness will be more easily accessible than rummaging through a disorganized pile .
Opt for a minimalistic design here , to keep the room feeling sterile , which will allow you to focus more on whatever current project is in the works . Simplistic wall art that doubles as storage is a great option , like floating shelves in a geometric shape that offer up surface area for small items . An ottoman that doubles as storage is worth including , also . Keep all electronics on a low-energy surge protector , and choose a desk that will remain sleek , and still provide you with optimal work space . The key here is to increase productivity by reducing the amount of free space , and designating a purpose to every square inch of the office .
32 l Spring 2017