WHAt’s Up With Storage

One aspect of home design that may be overlooked by prospective buyers is home storage. An abundance of storage space is not typically priority when searching the market for the right home; more exciting features such as spacious kitchens or luxurious primary bathrooms take precedence. However, such a small design feature like storage can affect the value of the home and quality of living once moved in.

I recently purchased a two-bedroom, two-bathroom condo with just a little over 1,000 square feet and fell victim to this shortfall. My partner and I didn’t have much when moving into the home, but I underestimated how much we would accumulate over time that does require additional storage space. Aside from the bedroom closets and kitchen cabinets, we’ve been forced to get creative with our storage solutions. My organizational skills have proved fruitful in this endeavor as I’ve made the most of every nook, cranny, and storage chest. Our saving grace has been our one-car garage which serves as storage, a parking space, and a laundry room. Multiple overhead storage racks have given us the ability to store excess cleaning and yard supplies, holiday decorations, and bulkier items such as luggage and winter jackets.

With this in mind, I was curious about what storage situations other WHA staff experienced within their homes. Closets are a great solution to store more than linen – cleaning supplies, coats, craft supplies, kitchen appliance overflow, the options are endless. The majority shared that they also have had to improvise within their home by utilizing drop zones for multiple functions, installing extra shelving along hallways and in closets, and bringing in baskets, chests, and furniture with storage capabilities.

Regardless of who I connected with, their lifestyle, single-family versus multi-family residence, rent versus own, we all agreed that the garage is a key player. The garage serves as a space to not only park your car(s) but also as a laundry room and excess storage area. Those with larger homes shared that the garage serves as a multifunctional space. Sure, it is a great place to store holiday decorations, yard tools, and everything in between. However, if you have the ability to store those items inside your home, the garage can be utilized as an extension of your living area, such as a fitness room or hobby space. Not all homes or lifestyles can allow for this garage function, but it can free up square footage within the home for alternative living areas and storage options.

If you’re in the market for a home or rethinking your current home design, do not overlook the storage solutions available. Evaluate your lifestyle, current and projected storage needs, and the solutions that are realistic for you and your home.