Hansi
1 Nov , 2018
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Living in a small apartment doesn’t mean you have to compromise on organization or style. With smart planning and clean, minimalist design choices, you can maximize every nook and cranny without cluttering your space. Here are some practical, minimalist storage solutions that work beautifully in compact homes.
1. Use Vertical Space — Think Walls
- Floating Shelves: Wall-mounted, floating shelves free up floor space while providing storage for books, decor, plants, or daily essentials.
- High Shelves / Over‑Door Storage: Install shelves near the ceiling or above doors to store things you don’t need every day.
- Pegboards: A pegboard is a versatile solution — mount one in the kitchen, workspace, or entryway to hang tools, mugs, accessories, or anything that can be looped or hooked.
Why it works: Going vertical helps you use unused “dead space,” reducing clutter at ground level.
2. Choose Multi‑Functional Furniture
- Storage Ottomans: These double as seating or a coffee table, with a hidden compartment to store blankets, books, or extra pillows.
- Murphy Beds or Loft Beds: If possible, use a bed that folds into the wall (Murphy) or a loft-style bed to free up floor space underneath.
- Bench with Hidden Storage: A window seat or bench that lifts or has drawers underneath is perfect for extra textiles or items you need to keep but don’t want on display.
Why it works: Minimalist style favours pieces that do more than one job. Built-in or dual-purpose furniture reduces the need for extra units.
3. Smart Organizers for Small Spaces
- Under‑Bed Storage Boxes: Use slim, wheeled boxes under your bed to store off-season clothes, shoes, or spare linens.
- Stackable Bins: Use stackable containers inside closets or on shelves to maximize vertical space inside storage units.
- Over-the-Door Organizers: These are great for shoes, toiletries, cleaning supplies, or small items — they utilize the back of a door efficiently.
- Tiered Rolling Carts: A slim, tiered cart can act as a mobile storage unit in the kitchen, bathroom, or office.
4. Declutter & Edit Regularly
- Adopt a “Less but Better” Mindset: Minimalism isn’t just about empty space — it’s about intentional space. Regularly review your items and decide what is essential.
- Use Catch-All Trays: Rather than letting keys, mail, or remotes scatter, use a small tray on a console or shelf to corral daily items.
- Label & Categorize: Use simple boxes or bins that are labeled. When everything has a home, clutter naturally reduces.
5. Hidden Storage Is Your Friend
- Cabinet Tops & Corners: Use the area above cabinets or high corners for storage baskets.
- Floating Ledges / Ledges at Waist Level: Slim shelves (ledges) along walls can hold books, small decor, or mail — without sticking out too much.
- Built-In Cabinetry: If you can customize (or retrofit), consider tall or built-in cabinets that reach the ceiling – very efficient in tight spaces.
6. Minimalist Materials & Aesthetic
- Stick to neutral colors (white, gray, beige) for storage units so they blend into the room and don’t overwhelm the space.
- Use baskets made of natural materials (wicker, rattan) or sleek fabrics — they look clean and function well.
- Maintain clean lines: avoid overly large or decorative storage furniture; keep things streamlined and simple.
7. Real-Life Minimalist Hacks (What People Actually Do)
- “Think vertical – wall shelves, tall cabinets … utilize the wall space!”
- Many recommend under-bed storage bins with wheels — especially useful for seasonal clothes or shoes.
- Using the back of doors for hooks and organizers is a common, budget-friendly trick.
8. Product Suggestions (for Minimalist Storage)
Here are some product ideas (or types) you can look for when buying storage items for your small apartment:
Here are a few of my top picks and what makes them work:
- Stackable Storage Bins: Transparent or fabric bins help you make use of vertical space inside closets or cupboards.
- Floating Wall Shelf: Sleek, wall-mounted shelf adds storage without eating floor space.
- Tiered Rolling Cart: Multi-level, mobile cart ideal for kitchen, bathroom, or office.
- Storage Ottoman: Dual-purpose — seating plus hidden storage.
- Over‑Door Organizer: Makes use of door backs for shoes, toiletries, or small items.
- Pegboard Organizer: Customizable pegs and shelves make it versatile for any space.
- Under‑Bed Storage Box: Low-profile bin to slide under the bed.
- Wicker Storage Basket: Natural, stylish storage that doesn’t look messy.
9. Putting It All Together — A Simple Plan
- Walk through your apartment and note where you have unused vertical or “dead” space (walls, under bed, door backs).
- Pick multi-functional storage furniture first (ottoman, benches, rolling cart).
- Install wall shelves or pegboards, especially in the kitchen, living room or working area.
- Organize using bins and boxes, and label them.
- Keep clutter minimal by using catch‑all trays and regular purging.
- Make it look good: Stick to a simple color or material palette so your storage feels like part of the décor, not just random boxes.