No matter where you live, clever storage solutions can be helpful, but especially so in Manhattan’s space challenged apartments.
Baskets & Bins
Plastic or metal bins and baskets of all kinds are fantastic ways to create drawers out of any shelf or flat surface. These containers are especially useful in entry ways for hiding hats, gloves, and scarves in the winter or in pantries, closets, and cabinets for organizing cleaning or beauty products.
I am currently using brushed metal bins like those pictured above in my walk-in closet for overflow beauty products, categorized by hair, skincare and nails. I like these hard sided bins so that smaller products like skincare samples or nail polish bottles can’t escape the side as with a wire basket.
I am also using stylish black collapsible baskets for a variety of items on my IKEA Kallax shelving units in the living room. Everything from art supplies to magazines to random greeting cards and cat toys can be concealed by these flexible folding wicker boxes.
Pegboard
Using pegboard in workshops, offices, and studios is a common practice, but I installed a panel in our small kitchen to preserve precious counter space and also collocate cooking items near the stove. This IKEA SKADIS Pegboard in white with some shelves and hooks holds spices, potholders, and frequently used utensils.
Hooks & Clothes Trees
Another unconventional storage solution I am trying is a clothes tree in the bathroom for hanging towels. Since our wall is entirely tile and our Target Threshold towels have convenient hanging loops, this simple Scandinavian look tree is a great solution. I like the look so much, I may get another for our hall or closet.
Form & Function
Finally, I have always been a fan of sleek modern design. One of my favorite pieces by Kartell, the Componibili Storage Unit, sits in a corner by my desk. While it is a perfect side table for a small lamp and a good place to keep post it notes and computer accessories, my cat also likes to open the lowest sliding door and curl up for a nap. How’s that for form and function?
Midtown Century Modern 