TALL ORDER
Next time you’re passing through your landing, spend a moment considering its potential. Are you making the most of the space? You could take a leaf out of this homeowner’s book with bespoke bookshelves that run right to the ceiling (check the height of your books and ask your joiner to space the shelves accordingly). Don’t forget about the space above the doorway either — it’s another neglected niche.
IT'S A WRAP
A slate grey shelving system ensures that the TV doesn’t dominate this plush living room belonging to Massimo and Jessica Minale, owners of home fashion label Buster + Punch. Note the couple’s skilful use of black Nero marble panelling, which helps to move the eye around the space.
A PLACE FOR EVERYTHING
Savvy storage is the key to stopping your home’s entrance becoming a dumping ground. Think hooks for coats (including kid-friendly, low-hanging ones), baskets for shoes and, if you don’t have the budget for built-in seating, a simple slimline bench. The secret to success here is that the storage blends with the walls so it feels part of the design.
ON A ROLL
There’s little doubt that an ordered working environment has a positive impact on your well-being and a tall free- standing bookcase like this one is brilliant for achieving that. Consider going bespoke if you have an awkward space to fill – a carpenter will be able to advise you. Make like these homeowners and inject a library vibe with a rolling ladder so you can access the top shelves.
SPLASH OF SUNSHINE
Cheerful yellow cabinets make the space feel warm and welcoming even on the greyest of days. Wooden shelves create a vintage vibe. This simple approach to styling shelves never fails, with glass jars of different shapes and sizes coming together to create a beautiful, unified look.
STEP UP YOUR STORAGE
Conceived as a series of plywood boxes with treads that double up as bookshelves, a staircase like this is perfect when space is limited and you don’t want to use valuable floor area. Lighting is important, especially as we choose a solid-ply balustrade to suit the simple aesthetic of the bedroom and shade the staircase from the main bedroom lighting.
DOUBLE DUTY
Colour is used to lessen the impact of storage in this busy space that doubles as a study and cloakroom. The moody hue throughout makes it look and feel more open and less cluttered. It also lends the free-standing furniture a sense of permanency, which is perfect if your budget won’t stretch to built-in.
WALK THROUGH
If space is tight, use sliding doors to save on the floor area you’d need to leave clear for swing doors. Make sure your en suite is well ventilated: this is crucial in all bathrooms to prevent mould growth and particularly important in a set-up like this to avoid damp problems in the dressing room.