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    (Better Homes and Gardens Home) Better Homes and Gardens - Ideas & How-To - Storage & Organizing-Better Homes & Gardens (2009)

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    (Better Homes and Gardens Home) Better Homes and Gardens - Ideas & How-To - Storage & Organizing-Better Homes & Gardens (2009)

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    331 views146 pages
    Better Homes and Gardens

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    (Better Homes and Gardens Home) Better Homes and Gardens - Ideas & How-To_ Storage & Organizing-Better Homes & Gardens (2009)

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    Better Homes and Gardens

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    (Better Homes and Gardens Home) Better Homes and Gardens - Ideas & How-To - Storage & Organizing-Better Homes & Gardens (2009)

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    Better Homes and Gardens

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    IDEAS & HOW-TO hs sath Bedrcal ° Close John Wiley & Sons) Iie! ~ ; AR IDEAS & HOW-TO Storage & Organizing This book is printed on acid-free paper. @ Copyright © 2009 by Meredith Corporation, Des Moines, lowa. Allights reserved Published by John Wiley & Sons, Inc., Hoboken, New Jersey Published simultaneously in Canada No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic, ‘mechanical, photocopying, recording, scanning, or otherwise, except as permitted under Section 107 or 108 of the 1976 United States Copyright Act, without either the prior written permission of the Publisher, or authorization through payment of th appropriate per-copy fee to the Copyright Clearance Center, 222 Rosewood Drive, Danvers, MA 01923, (978) 750-8400, fax (978) (646-8600, or on the web al www.copyright.com. Requests fo the Publisher for permission should be addressed to the Permissions Department, John Wiley & Sons, Inc., 111 River Street, Hoboken, NJ.07030, (201) 748-601 1, fax (201) 748-6008, or online at hitp:// ‘www.wiley.com/go/permissions. Limit of Liability/Disclaimer of Warranty: While the publisher and the author have used their best efforts in preparing this book, they make no representations or warranties with respect to the accuracy or completeness of the contents of this book and specifically disclaim any implied warranties of merchantability or fitness for a particular purpose. No warranty may be created of extended by sales representatives or written sales materials. ‘The advice and strategies contained herein may not be suitable for your situation. You should consult with a professional where appropriate. Neither the publisher nor the author shall be liable for any loss of profit or any other commercial damages, including but not limited to special, incidental, consequential, or other damages. For general information about our other products and services, please contact our Customer Care Depariment within the United States at (800) 762-2974, outside the United States at (317) 572- 3993 or fax (317) 572-4002. Wiley also publishes its books in a variety of electronic formats ‘Some content that appears in print may not be available in electronic books. For more information about Wiley products, Visit our web site at www.wiley.com, ISBN 978-0-470-48804-1 Printed in the United States of America 0987654321 Welcome. Chapter 1: Kitchens and Pantries. Open and Closed Storage Arrange Visible Storage Island Ways: Customize a Dresser. Making the Most of an Island, Customize a Base Cabinet Drawers Plus Gauge Drawer Quality Pots and Pans. Install a Hanging Pot Rack. Utensils and Dishware. ‘More Ideas for Organizing, Spices and Oils Store Spices and Oils. ‘Small Appliances. Wine. Perfect Pantries. Organize a Pantry. Pump Upa Pantry Cabinet... Storage Your Way (chart). Chapter 2: Entries, Mudrooms & Laundries. ‘Tame the Routine. Corral the Clutter : ‘Make a Wooden-Hanger Coatrack.. Keep It Clean. Every Inch Counts. Clutter Busters, Laundry Armoire Customize a Laundry Armoire.. ERRERESS Chapter 3: Dining Areas..... Match Style and Storage PutWasted Space toWork.... More Ideas for Dining Rooms. ® Freestanding Shelves... To: Build Free T2888 Chapter 4: Living, Family & Media Rooms .. Organized Living. 60 Style and Storage. at Media Room Magic sn. 3 Organize Your Electronic Media. 65 Literary Collections. 06 Reduce the Paper Pile... or Build a Magazine Rack. 09 Chapter 5: Home Offices Divide and Conquer. Plan Ahead, Paper Control. Dedicate Space Drawer Organization Turn Vertical Space into Storage Build a Fabric Wall Bulletin Board.. 78 aiaa Chapter 6: Master Bedrooms, Dressing Areas & Closets Suite Storage Sensation, Conquer Bedroom Clutter. Dream Closet Closeups. A.Clean Solution. ‘Simple Solutions Window of Opportunity _ Build Window Seat Storage nm 95 Bedroom Bonuses ee Build a Nightstand : 97 Sener Chapter 7: Bathrooms ‘The Ultimate Storage Bath Boost Your Storage Capacity. Better Built-ins Towel Storage You CanTake ItWith You Linen Closet Customize a Linen Closet. Recessed Wall Cabinet : Build a Recessed Cabinet, Chapter 8: Personalized Storage. Customize a Cabinet Clutter Control for Play Spaces. Build Storage Cubes, Busy Minds and Hands Guest Rooms Plus A Better Guest Closet Shelves and Sleepovers Bookshelf Basics... Chapter 9: Special Spaces Organize the Garage.. Restore Order. InPlain Sight. Step Up the Storage. Just forYou Garden Storage Dedicated Beverage Center Create a Dedicated Beverage Center. Resources. Customize a Garden Armoire 100 108 104 107 108 110 110 12 113 is' Spaces and Guest Rooms 114 116 a7 119 119 20 122 122 124 125 131 Welcome Ifyou open a closet that bursts with clothes, can never find the right spice for your favorite recipe, and spend more time clearing the kitchen table than ‘eating on it, Ideas & How-To: Storage & Organizing isthe path to your success, This book provides practical solutions to common organizational problems, addressing everything from organi ig closets and entryways to finding space ‘Open storage rises o “enlightened heights. ‘Doors with glass inserts ator the tonts for hobby supplies. The concept is simple: Commit to cleaning one small space at a time—a drawer, an armoire, a closet. In a few months all your organizational woes will be behind you and friends will envy your storage savvy. Sound appealing? Turn the page and get organized! Py f- ad 334 Pc Peer a pe ee pe ec a Peete eo BCC et ene RON ee essential in the kitchen. Busy cooks want pots, ACER oR CUO ana Ey Ue Un We UR Or Lng ORTON ESE m on Te Eat Ae I you feel strongly about light and like to see your dishes at a glance, your choice is either open shelves or cabinets with glass doors. Open shelves and clear glass doors allow ‘you to quickly find what you're looking for while revealing the colors and shapes of your belongings. One caveat: Open storage demands that you keep items within the cabinets or on the shelves in an orderly manner, since they are always in view. If you like the idea of a certain amount of color and shape remaining visible but don't want to worry about keeping cabinet interiors tidy, consider doors with translucent or decorative glass panels that partially obscure what’ inside. T seeded glass or rice paper laminated between glass panes panels with For those who prefer clean countertops and minimal accessories on view, closed cabinet storage is for you. To prevent overwhelming the kitchen with cabinetry, install upper cabinets at varying heights and pull a few lower cabinets forward (or select some that are deeper than others) for visual variety. You may also want to include one or two cabinets with glass doors and lighted interiors to offer a resting place for the eyes as well as display space for a few treasures, ‘io need fr lighted cabinetry inthis kitchen. Glass-ro, see-through ron of windows eeat a su-frm-behind design while beauty of glassware on display. Sees eee sible trough windowpane lass doors ond artul visplayed Nee ened fee eee NTCRENS ND uNTES 31 Glass-door cabinets and open shelves provide a full and easy view of kitchen dishware, dry goods, and other ‘essentials. Observe these tips for attdy, attractive look: + Consider height. Store taller items at the back of the shelf or cabinet with smaller things atthe front. + Sort by color. For decorative impact consider ‘grouping dishware (and even dry goods) in collections with similar color or colors that ‘complement ane anather. + Watch the labels. Koop labels turned outward and keep boxes and cans lined up—especially on open shelves, * Include baskets. Use wire, woven, or plastic baskets to'store smaller andor less attractive items, Narrow shelves, when placed near a coktp, are handy fr holding herbs, cll, and spices. They are easy to see and reach during fod preparation. Decorative frosted glass on cabinet doors allows or se storage of dishes, glassware, o foo items. Colors and shapes emai visible bt the eontens don't have to remain as iy as things stored inside a cabinet with clear glass door. Besides thet tshionable presentation, cube-syle ‘open shelves ensure logical organization fr often- ‘used Hos, Atractve baskets hold linens and ‘smaller items fora cluter-free appearance A center island is probably the most-requested storage feature in a kitchen 1vs litte wonder, with the abundance of storage, single island can offer. Make the best use of counterspace by including a sink or cooktop. Below the countertop consider a combination of cabinets, drawers, eating, and work surface a and open shelves, Be careful to size your island so there is plenty of walkway space between it and perimeter cabinets. Most rules of thumb suggest at least 42 inches—48 inches is even better, especially when more than one cook shares the work core. ‘Ausefl stan base includes a variety of storage options. This one has calletion of cookbooks. The long sell with three bins for recyclables and og ood, Hf you're shopping for an island, you ‘might find what you need at a flea market ora garage sale. Sturdy old dressers can have both personality and potential 1. Sand, prime, and paint. Remove drawers and hardware. Then sand all the surfaces and wipe away sanding residue with a tack cloth. Apply a coat of primer let dy. Brush or rll one or two coats of color. 2, Replace knobs. Select and install new knobs or drawer pall to complement the rest of your kitchen. 3, Top it off. This bureau already featured a marble top, but you ccould add a countertop made of solid surfacing, laminate, tile, stainless steel, butcher block, or ‘another material that you prefer, 4, Accessorize, The sides of this island become storage ‘workhorses with the addition of large hooks for utensilsand a holder for paper towels Ree peehienrcet et Se] erent nee eee ey Cocos erred ‘Make your kitchen island convenient and practical + Ifa cooktop is part of the plan, a downdraft vent or ‘a hood suspended from the ceiling is a necessity. You may want your island to feature a sink andor food prep space instead. Ifthe sink is the only one in your kitchen, it must be deep enough (and the faucet high enough) to wash large pots. Also consider equipping it with a garbage disposer Each end of the cooktop should be bordered with at least 12-inch-wide runs of countertop Electrical outlets located on the side of the island— instead of on top—help prevent electrical shock. Shelf space for cookbooks and collectibles dresses up otherwise bare sides, A built-in TV works here too, especially if it faces the family room. Even a microwave, installed at an ideal height for the kids, is convenient for heating up afterschool snacks. Extend the countertop or recess cabinets to allow for leg space. + Seating across from the cooktop is great for a quick meal; make sure the countertop area between the chairs and cooktop measures atleast 12 inches. + Rounded corners help protect children from injury + Countertop material can vary from the rest of your kitchen’ counters as long as its harmonious with the room’ overall design. You may want to splurge on solid This centr istand bepan asa slock base cabinet and is customized with a-on shelves and beaded board. Bins tuck ito shelves on this end to ‘store potatoes, onions and squash. A sell on the opposite end ofthe island holds the microwave oven HOW TO CUSTOMIZE A BASE CABINET Begin with 2 36.inch base cabinet: Use beaded-board panels to face the cabinet, inch birch plywood for shelves and dividers, ‘and pine lumber for framing, Build out the cabinet back with 2xts, Glue and scree beaded panels tothe cabinet sides and cover the corner seam with a trim piece Glue and screw 1x2 naling cleats to side panel to later ‘support the shelves. Glue and screw shelves and top to blocks {and cabinet. Glue and screw the slats to sides of shelves. To reinforce one shalt to support a microwave oven, cut a 3 10 sheif wiath; nail to bottom of shetf ang to sats ‘Add shelf dividers and nail trim to shelves Install decorative legs below bottom shelves. To finish, sand, remove sanding reside, prime, and paint as desired, Install the countertop, J. Stock base cabinet Dts Yox2-inch slats Jeinch beaded-board panels 5. Yeinch plywood shelves and shelf dividers 3. 34d Inch facing and trim piece . 122s for shel cleats 438 support for below microwave oven shelf . Decorative legs 10, Countertop surfacing material, for instance, and use laminate on other countertops. A butcher block countertop is ideal I youll use your island for baking—rolling out dough and hand mixing, for instance—drop it to 32 oF 33 for food preparation; granite works well for baking tasks Pendant or recessed fixtures installed above the island direct adequate light onto work surfaces. Your island cooktop or sink can be part of your work triangle, but be sure it at least 42 inches from any adjacent cabinets, tables, or appliances. Expand that width 10 a roomier 48 to 6¢ inches iftwo or mote will work simultaneously. For general food preparation, set the countertop 36 ‘inches high, the same as most other kitchen countertops, inches and you'll find the handwork less fatiguing. For snack bar purposes, the standard 36-inch height accommodates most kitchen stools. If you prefer bar- height seating, set the counter at 42 to 45 inches; for table height, lower it to 28 to 32 inches. Or combine a couple of countertop heights for a multipurpose island, Ifyou choose an enclosed cabinet base, the standard drawer and cupboard storage options apply. For an open design, large shelves are ideal for holding pots, pans, and large bows. towers 17 Designers love to infuse the kitchen with lots of drawers for a reason: You can ‘open them in one smooth motion and see all the contents from front to back. Drawers and pullouts can be used liberally throughout your kitchen; the secret is to size them for what you want to store—deep drawers for bulky items, such as pots and pans, and shallow depths for silverware and knives, for example Specialty dividers help organize lids, trays, and the ubiquitous “junk drawer The frst step is to consider all the things you want to store in the kitchen and plan drawer and pullout storage accordingly your cabinet drawers and louts take what you dish out? 39 components take a harsher beating. f you're buying new cabinets, check the warranty on high-quality metal ald sor ball and a 76-pound lead rating or better. Open a drawer an inch: it should close onits own. Open it again, this time to the stops. TI ‘drawer shoul open smaothiy without excessive side pay, then stop before it exits the cabinet soit can't accidentally spillits contents. Other signs of quality rawer construction include a solid-wood face, 6 inch or thicker sides, a plywood bottom panel and strong corner joints that are either doweled or dovetailed. Avoid sides that are simply stapled and glued together ‘Unwiely serving platters are easier to handle wen stored in a all, arrow pullout in his peninsula, The dishwasher in lose proximity is ‘an efficiency bonus. This pullout offers an ol-ashioned solution for string bread—the drawer Compartmentalzed drawers kop tems soparated. The box features a pierced metal id that allows ventilation. The id slides back vers ease sorting flatware and utensis and can to acess the cantante of the drawer. 1 aly cleaned inthe dishuash ot undercabine space canbe pul to war rom front io back —_‘Too-icks are notor ve pallout. This two-run counterspace by the itand toe, liances and other smal cooking gadget {ood and water dishes. In most kitchens pots and pansare used daily: Their bulky Pullouts, drawers, and pullout shelves, which show construction means they take up more space than most everything from front to back, are the s¢ n order items, so they can be a chall a store. Some cooks to safely load concealed st heavy pk ans, love to see every pot and pan they own and want to he choose units that are well constructed from solid ith style, proudly displaying a cook’ Whichever storage strategy you prefer—ou kware from in full view—there's an efficient and attractive means fab what they need in a motion that’ easy on ‘Abarstyle ack mounted onthe backsplash behind the ange puts four or « their favorite pans on display This ype o storage eliminates te need to thet each up arto bend down o retrieve pots and pans. For best visual ete ins tucked away in neat stacks with lids nearby. fagp the pane polished, s, on the other hand, prefer to ha you preter to see your pots and pans bet don't want them nfl view, store them on an open shel. A shelf under this steer clutter ou of sight ines Eatra deep and wie units reveal a dovbl ayer of storage. The deeper bottom hall {seal or bulky pts and pans wile the shallower upper pullout keeps His ty Di empty space aver an island o find many sty ative pat racks are a great way to use the available online and in kitchen-supply stores a rack will take onl ‘a couple of hours at the most 4. Locate the joists inthe ceiling using a stud finder 2..As much as possible, match the locations of the Ceiling hooks with the dimensions ofthe pot rack so that the chain 3.Foreach ceiling haok it into it sideways and turning until the flan il bang ing book drill a pilot st by insarting a screwdriver le ofthe rack) so that each length has the same numberof links, Attach the chain to the pot rack With a helper ift the rack and hang the chains ‘on the ceiling hooks Ifyou ove to collect cookware and cant bear to tuckit away, use a celling-mounted pot rack. Some unis include Tighting fr duble-dty benefit. Utensils and dishware introduce armloads of items that beg for an orderly existence. For easy retrieval group Aatware and cooking utensils together by type and locate them close to where they're needed—where you dine and near the stove or food preparation stations. While flatware is often stowed in a drawer, you must decide whether to keep cooking utensils in view or in closed storage. Similarly dishes may be too pretty to store behind, closed doors, Ifso consider open racks or shelves behind 22 rose oe glass doors. Regardless of the type of stora upon for utensils and dishware, its a good idea to locate he dishwasher so pieces can be both within a few step quickly unloaded and put away Woden dividers keep a large quantity of latware in oder inside this ‘ep drawer. The pieces are stored with handles pointing up for safe and easy retrieval A plate rack mounted in ton ofa window does litle t6 obstruct kitchen wi view, Sunlight iter through the storage piece and highlights calor ishware Woodsen pegs placed strategically in a deep draws ‘koep dishes organized. Arange the pegs to custom- ‘ityour dishware * Place dishware in cabinets or racks yu dine and near the dishwasher, Store infrequent'y Used items, such as gravy boats and c elsewhere or up high, Keeping valuable, easy-to-reach kitchen space for everyday needs, + Store plastioware for kids in reachable lower cabinets with pullout shelving, That way your kids can learn to help set the table and put away clean dishes from the dishwasher For extra storage consider space-saving furnishings such as hanquettes with hinged tops, Such space works well for platters, trays, chafing dishes, extra pitchers, and tiered serving pieces you use only for special gatherings. stands, Knives in slots at the back othe eating board are protected, fingers sale, and are easy to reach during food preparation. variety of nif sizes and styles, ITEM suo ums 23 f Spices and Oils Heat, light, and moisture are the enemies of dried spices. Heat causes flavor loss, light fades colors, and moisture «causes ground spices to cake. When evaluating your spice collection, put your senses to work. Use sight to assess the vibrancy of spices and herbs; when the color fades, usually the flavor does too, Smell crushed spices or herbs in your hand; ifthe aroma is weak, replace them. Taste them too; ifthe Navor is weak, replace + Keep spi Don't store spices and herbs over the stove, dishwasher 's away from heat, moisture, and sunlight or sink, or near a window. Store in tightly closed containers, + Use a dry measuring spoon in containers; moisture will cause deterioration, + Store red peppers—paprika, chili powder, red pepper— in the refrigerator to retain color and freshness. 24 stage osc + Monitor the age of spices and herbs by putting the date they're frst opened on the co tha felttip pen. + Look for a series of black numbers and letters on the bottom or side of the spice container (on dry-seasoning packet mixes, the numbers and letters are pressed into the edge ofthe packaging). The first number indicates the year, If the number is 7, the product was packaged in 2007. The second character identifies the month alphabetically, asin “A” for January or pach Instead of sprinkling spices directly from the bottle over a steaming pot, measure spices into another container into the spice for June, Some ig indicates a “best if used by” date then add them to the pot. Steam that container hastens flavor loss, Designate a drawer near the cooktop fr storing spices. Add special ‘inert tat kepsjarstitedso te labels are easy to read. When you cook, slip the drawer ou ofthe pides and seit onthe countertop, ther return ‘he drawer when you're done. ‘Seasoning blends two years, Extracts—four years ink small when it comes to spices. the thinnest of spaces, such asthe ‘end fan island or the back ofthe counter, and you'l beter see whats on kane Bottles are heavy; be sure to select high-quality heavy-duty glides so the drawers are easy to pen and close Two shallow niches below an isiand dor andthe aber Tene ao Pas 25 Store small appliances according to how you use them. If you use the appliance daily and have sufficient space, keep it on -ounter, For infrequently used ap ‘a space outside the main work core, such as on a kitchen cart or behind clos { pantry doors, will keep them hidden but accessible. Standard cal inet sizes can handle most small appliances, and accessories such as roll-out shelves and raised platforms can aid in lifting those that are heavy. An outlet inside an appliance garage puts power where you need it. Another tip is to create convenient stations for appliances that are used at the same time, such as a beverage station with a coffeemaker, a coffee grinder, and an espresso machine. ‘An “appliance garage" makes good use ofthe space between upper and lower cabinets. A tambour dor doesn't swing out and therefore doesa't Inter with ems onthe couna. An electrical ute alls appliances ,—__lobeeasly plugged in and ready for use. tardware makes i possible to store a heavy-duty mixer on a Buby, seldom-used appliance, such this bread maker, soe out ofthe cabinet shel, Open the cabinet dors and pull he shal! up and out way onthe bottom rack of rallng cart. The cartrols ina an ndercounter bring the mixer to user‘riendly height. Include an oul a the back of he alcove when notin use. Cabinet so the mixer is ready to use 26 sre GANG ine out of areas that undergo drastic t are fluctuations, such as the top of the refrigerator or near the stove. By wine racks under counters andor islands or between Is wor 1. They also keep wine tilted, so the cork remains mo font seep in and ruin the flavor. Bottles can be stored upright but only for short pe dessert wi so you can quickly find the p so you'll be able to drink the is may want to invest in a refrigerated wine cabinet. (The best + vintage. Then organize them tion da wine at its peak of flavor. temperature for storing wine is between 50°F and 60°F with 60 to 70 percent humidity.) Mo come in freestanding or undercounter models and hold a minimum of 24 bottles. Aetrigerated coles are specially designed forkeeping win atthe right temperature and ‘humid. Store win bots on her sides so ‘heir cons stay moist refrig ne Tsar todas eee aes errs een ty SEE ee tt According to a survey by the National Association of Home Builders, 85 percent of respondents included a walk-in pantry on their kit nn wish list. Fortunately this much-sought-after storage space is no longer considered a high-end amenity. And you don't need a huge kitchen to incorporate a pantry (walk-in or otherwise). Specialty pantry cabinets that store an abundance of goods are available. Creative design can nsform small recesses, unused corners, broom clasets, and otherwise wasted space into a walk-in style pantry. To get the most out of your pantry, opt for adjustable shelving so you can adapt the space to changing storage needs. The shelves should stand no higher than 7 feet off the floor—the height most people can safely reach from a step stool. If the shelves are extra deep (more than 12 inches), consider a roll-out unit for easier access to items stored toward the back Remember there no law that says pantries are only for storing food. Feel free to keep linens handy by draping them over mounted dowel rods in a cabinet or hanging them from pants hangers on a standard closet rod. Use ertical dividers to store bulky platters and cookie sheets. You might be surprised where you can fa pantry. Once a doorway Int a bathroom, this shallow panty was constructed til the opening. ‘Asereen door lends a playful touch and keeps the contents on view. UTOHAS WD NTE 29 dividers for holding flatware ace as well. Free | counterspace by installing electrical outlets in the pantry A pantry can be a worki for using countertop appliances such as coffeepots, stand creating a special work zone, such as a baking center with 2 pullout mixer stand or a beverage center with open wine storage and handy pullout shelving. With the addition of a sink and countertop, you can enjoy an old-fashioned butler’ pant aan annex that eases preparation, servi However simple or elaborate the anization is the key to an efficient pantry. If there no method to your storage madness, the pantry can easily tum from efficient annex to cluttered catchall Reminiscent ofan old general store, glass jars and harvest bushels keep ‘this pantry well organize. Clear r open containers make ieasy to inventory your suplies nd krow when youre running out ls specite food or drink. Follow this strategy to conquer clutter in afood pantry cabinet or walkin + Empty the pantry. Check labels to see if any food is ration date, Also throw away items that no that are unlikely o be eaten, . ms. Separate foad items into categories, pastas, soups, and oils. Turn items ard and position on shelves with + Reduce the clutter. Snack bags and small packs such as instant spice mixes, look messy and their labels are difficult to read. Instead st in clear plastic containers that stack. Flip-top lids work particularly well hese items Coordinated baskts organize staples and produce inthis iy wal-in Dairy. Most basket ends have hand grips for easy transport tothe counter tr table. Open shelves make selecting ceramics and dinnerware a breeze, Plastic ins and containers are strage-riendly panty alternatives. 2, Roll on a chalkboard, ate 3. Produce a place for pinups, Using a straightedo and a utility knife, trim a sheet of adhesive-back cork oft 1 recessed por off the backing and pushpins toh in place until you n ing order with containers. Purchase plastic iners for easy-to-see, tidy storage of ugar, flour, and other staples. 5. Create magnetic display space. Purch: est: metal panel from a hom ta the door using an adhe: metal. Clamp until ry. URL ae Solo Act, You often cook for one but still believe your kitchen should be efficient and well-equipped for cet-togethers. Couple/No Kids Maintain comfort in yourshared ‘space by planning smart, flexible storage that simplifies tandem meal preparation and party prep. Family Affair Ensure a tidy and safe culinary hub with a design that keeps items handy and helps young ones pitch in Empty Nesters ‘Your dream kitchen is the one you can use for years to come. Blend accessibility, personality, and hospitality, 232 ssc onan CABINETS, Reduced-depth cabinets allow units to stack without reducing counter work area. Rollout trays make contents in base cabinets more accessible. Top-hinged wall cabinets occupy less aisle space than those with side-hinged doors. A base cabinet on casters can double as a mobile island ora handy serving cart. Doorless cabinets display small collections. ‘An angled drawer insert, a doorrmount rack, or undercabinet shelves organize spices. Tambour door cabinets hide blenders, coffee grinders, and other ‘small appliances and keep countertops clear An sland with sink or cooktop Creatas a second workstation: buy duplicate food-prep basics and provide a backup wastebasket ‘Afull-height pantry stocks staples and paper goods. A below-counter niche for the microwave oven allows kids to heat snacks without climbing or reaching. Countertop heights of 32 or ‘2Biinches sult sharter helpers; a slide-out platform in the toe-kick ives them a boost. Tray dividers and bulk.ingredient drawers cater to bakers. Chooie kid-friendly finishes that ‘clean easly ‘An sland and barstools just outside the work core create. gathering spot fordinner guests. Rollout drawers and. ‘traysand pop-up miner stands reduce bending and lifting. Open shelves display cookbook spines lke artwork ‘A cutting board or slide-out table adds a sit-down work surface, Drawerson base cabinets are more efficent and ‘accessible than doors—especially from wheelchair. ‘As you design your kitchen storage and life changes, convenience is key, Here's a guide to storage thraugh the stages of life. ACCESSORIES \Wal-mount grids, pegboard, and rail systems keep frequently used ingredients and utensils handy. ‘Adjustable dividers make the most of limited drawer space. Tiered stands ‘maximize cabinet interiors’ storage of canned goods. Instead of a hanging rack, consider a pot rail mounted to the wall or an end cabinet Convert an armoire toa bar cabinet ‘by mounting a wine rack inside. Or hhang awine rack on a wall or stand it nthe countertop. Freestanding wire shelves showcase colorful canisters, dinnerware, serving pieces, and table linens. Baskets and oversize ‘wood bowls corral fresh fruits and vegetables. If desk space is nonexistent, install a pull-down message center near the jBhone. pulldown knife rack keeps cutlery out of toddlers reach, Turntables minimize disarray inside cabinets. CCoated-wire carts are light enough for kids to maneuver Baskets, bins, nd jars store afterschool snacks and homowork and crafts project needs. I's return to the basies—but not to a budget—with accessories that are ‘scaled down fora party of two. Pick ton-ofthe-line units that easily store ‘and are dishwasher-safe. Consider ‘weeding out the clutter of litie-used items, moving them to a separate ‘storage unit in the basement or garage. FooD ‘Cooking for one serves up its own, ‘challenges but that shouldn't ston you from exploring your taste bud temptations. Learn basic food- ‘organizing principles (group by type in stackable sealed containers) that set you off on a surefire path toa well-honed pantry. Ifa night of ‘cooking eaves you with leftovers, freeze them or store up to three days in the refrigerator — Dinner parties area regular nce in many couples’ social .s0 youll want plenty of pantry Use clear plastic containers to ‘organize food, allowing family 5 membersto easily see what's avaliable. Create a kid-happy food zone: Stash healthy items in snack- size containers within easy reach, allowing kids to help themselves to both room-temperature and chilled items. If children are old enough and space allows, alowerheight microwave oven allows them to heat food on their own, BAKING/COOKING DISHES Time to toss the paper plate bonanza that got you through your college years. Build your collection ay starting with basics: ‘ight large and small plates, bowls, and coffee cups in a pain color and pattern, Include a simple silverware set for eight, too, a5 ‘wall as basic serving bowls, platters, and utensils in any must have lst. Check for dishwasher: and microwave-safe ratings. Review your pats and pans: Include large and small saute pans and large and small cooking pots with lids as starter cooking sets. Stash cookie sheets and lids with upright dividers to ‘max out minimal cabinet space. Avoid buying supplies for cookie baking in bulk the space sacrifice isnt worth the extra 5 pounds of flour. Take time to stock a wide range of baking and cooking items, Round out ‘your cake pans with both 8: and inch ‘versions, and add another midsize saute ‘pan to your collection, Test out beyond. the-basic appliances, such asa juicer, blender, or top-notch food processor. Expand your dishware repertoire ‘past boring white with a collection ‘of specil-occasion items—great wineglasses, serving platters, ‘even aset of china, Group similar ‘collections for visual and physical accessibility ellowing you to see Stash rarely used items at head height or above and keep aften- used dishes right around waist level, Devote one cabinet fo plastic dishes, glasses, and utensils so kids can help themselves. You! likely have more than one set of dishes, so considera stand-alone Uniti the kitenen or dining room tostash special-occasion items, Ifa cooktop on an island is part of your kitchen design, include a raised backsplash, or ledge, atthe back to protect anyone atthe snack bar side from hot splatters. Folding step stools boring kids up to helping height but stash easily na pantry closet, Remember to go vertical: Organize cookie sheets, ‘cutting boards, and baking pans upright ‘tomax out space. ‘ITONENS AND pueTES 33 De CRB CCRC RUE CL CLR ia} ‘equipment, and laundry are just a few of the items that clutter hardworking utility areas on BCC OCHO Buco re Cur ECO et Cid OC aC De USCS UL you'll spend less time picking up and more time doing what you love. 3 Tame the Routine The secret to organizing mudrooms and entryways is to catch the cutter before it makes its way into the rest of the hot Think of the first th member does when stepping inside th and kick: ont door: Drops the keys, dumps the b If the shoes. Ev es, the right furniture and is can make it as easy to put t e items away as it isto drop them on the floor, Install a shelf equip; phones. Use a pretty jar to c and add a bench with cubbies for taki time, you can transform a dumping ets 10 catch Keys and cell Il hooks to hang up coats d with a couple of b n organizational zone that welcomes family and guests alike. This custom-built vider catches al the gear that comes trough the front door an ior elear of utr. Shaves and cubes sized to hold a weeks worth of gear. Ne ee ey ee eer ere Pee eens Eliminate the entryway and mudroom mayhem with these quick tips for organizing family supplies + Keep everyday items within easy reach—it makes coming, and going a much quicker and easier process * Ifyou opt for built-in storage, make sure the design you choose can keep up with your child and family’s needs. + If your entry is short on space, place a bin for each child near the stairs or hallway that leads to the bedrooms, + Install a chalkboard by the back door and write notes and reminders in a print large enough to draw attention. + Put a basket on the kitchen desk to serve as a drop-off point for important school papers * Give everyone a hook at his or her height to make hanging up coats effortless. Install additional hooks for backpacks, sports bags, purses, and the dogs leash. rance connect a hot tub and ubbias above the Bench provide esas bench sat. The drawers feature can quickly stash what he ‘Select frishings ike these that Aer) Tr mKh oot Pasa) Leia This backtor entrance doubles as a pet center and provides storage for do food, pet bows, and other ‘supple, The ted shower tll i gretfor cleaning ‘muddy paws, boots, and shoes Put your wooden hangers to work in anew way: Use them to create a pretty and functional coatrack. Attach shortened hangers toa Ixé.as shown by screwing the hangers in place on the backside of the board. Attach the coatrack to the wall by mounting heavy: duty picture hangers ante the back ofthe tx Space the picture hangers so that you can attach the rack to wall studs Insta a dain by the ack door and let boots, ‘umbrelas, swimsuits, and other wet tems dip ‘yo puddle cleanup required. 40 sms onunzne Your laundry room may be a dedicated room or it may shate space with a basement, mudroom, bathroom, or kitchen, Whatever the case make ita pleasant area to work by creating a specific place for stashing dirty clothes and hhanging and folding clean ones. If you have the space, installa flat counter-height surface for soning and folding laundry, then add a shelf above the counter for stashing supplies. If space is limited, ‘ou can fold clothes on top bove the washer, be Alive of space provides convenient storage This storage caddy tucks between the washer and dyer Purchased from a home center, this freestanding cabinet holds a laundry basket for each family member. sure to allow enough space for opening and closing the machine’ lid Baskets are ideal for eliminating piles on the floor— make sure they are open-weave to allow air to circulate A wall-mounted drying rack that folds back into place is another practical addition. Leftover cabinets from a bath remodeling or a rolling caddy and some wire shelving can filla need. Every Inch Counts If your laundry area is limited to a small closet, use the ‘open space above the washer and dryer to sort colors into canvas bags hung acrossa closet rod, as shown on pay Give the closet an extra design dash by painting the wall: a favorite color I your washer and dryer are housed in a guest bath or the garage, consider hiding the machines behind bifold cabinetry doors. Asa space-saving alternative, invest in a stackable washer and dryer and tuck them inside a ventilated closet. Use the extra floor space to create a storage closet complete with she! Storesup and organi uch as carpet cleaners and spot removers in plastic baskets or bins so you can easily transport them to the trouble spots. A chest of dra is an excellent storage addition: Apply stenciled labels so everyone in the family knows what is stored inside. «4 stouse «onan aad Piles of clothing, bottles of detergent, and laundry baskets can quickly take aver a laundry area, To keep pes of storage. Here are p in mind + Find room for an ironing board. Install a pull-down ironing board that's built into a cabinet or door. You can also find easy-to-install racks that hold the board at home centers and hardware stores. Include shelves or cubbies. Use ope storage to detergents and Include space for clothes that need to air dry. stall a closet rod above a utlty sink or bet wall-hung cabinets, rns fe ees "Mudroom and laundry areas are ideal or string pet fods ad feeding bowls. Ths pullout bin stores large bap of kibble. Buitin cats some wit ed lass NTIS, umROONS 6 AOHORES 47 a r is classy laundry center is an ideal addition to an apartment or second home. Start with an unfinished wood cabinet (sold at unfinished furniture stores) Fill any dents or dings in the wood with wood filer and let dry. Sand the surfaces lightly and wipe with a tack rag. Then stain or prime and paint as desired. Because the cabinet is ina high-moisture environment, top the paint or stain with one or more coats of a clear sealer, such as polyurethane. This cabinets interior, opposite, is as attractive as its exterior, Pretty baskets, boxes, and jars keep detergent, bleach, fabric softener, and other mundane supplies within easy reach, ‘Turn an unfinished piece of furniture into'an armoire that neatly stores everything you need for laundry day (except the washing machine) 41. Give the cabinet a one-of-a-kind look by color washing the door insets and crown molding a soft shade of blue or your favorite color. 2. Customize the interior with handy wire racks you can ‘screw into the doors or place on an existing interior helt. In ether location the racks put spot removers ‘and ironing supplies in plain view and within easy reach, Install a whiteboard for jotting down to-do lists, 3. Add a tote basket that allows youto take all the laundry supplies to the washing machine in one trip. 4, Repurpose ready-made organizers to store what Yu use most. In this armoire a former belt-and:-tie ‘organizer screws into the inside of the right door and holds fragrant sachets. A shower caddy attached to the opposite door halds soaps and fabric fresheners, 5. A cotton bag slung over the door isjust the thing for holding clothespins neatly. The strap slips over your shoulder when i's time to haul the clothes basket cutside to the line 6.A spacious bottom section of the armoire—created by removing some shelves—is ideal for storing a folded drying rack and canvas hampers, When the ironing is done, hang the folded board on a hanger mounted on the armoire's exterior. | ‘picked and color-washed finish combines wit od-ashoned doo pulls ‘to make this cabinet the periectaddtion oa classic eotage-style home.

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