ENVISION

hampering their clothes, but not their style…

a private organizational tool…

a space to stow books and bags…

with plenty of room for self-expression.

a) Abundant shelves, rods, drawers, baskets and hooks make it easy to put stuff away.

b) Display favorite instruments, skateboards or sports equipment—and keep them off the ground.

c) Incorporate a station for homework and projects with deep drawers for past assignments and personal momentos—for teens, privacy is precious.

d) Make room for media—and the players and speakers that bring it to life.

e) Leave space for artwork, posters and other self-expressions.

a) Welcome each member of the family with a personal locker and cubbies for hats and accessories.

b) Aerate damp mittens and gloves with wire baskets.

c) Benches allow you to take a seat or set down shopping bags while shedding shoes.

d) Hooks hold up backpacks, tote bags, purses and scarves.

e) Stow slippers and wet shoes to keep them off the floor in this high-traffic area.

f) Create a cell-phone charging station near an outlet.

a) Include workspace for folding, flat-drying and stain removal.

b) Wire baskets permit air-flow needed for ventilation and drying—and permit you to see what you’ve stored.

c) Conceal stronger cleansers out of the sight and reach of younger children.

d) Lined, divided baskets hold and hide sorted laundry until you’re ready to do the next load of lights or darks.

e) Rods and shelves array garments awaiting a press or hand-wash.

f) A fold-out ironing board is easily pressed into service, but saves space when not in use.

a) If more than one person will work here at a time, consider a worksurface approachable from at least two sides.

b) Integrate power access to operate a sewing machine, glue gun or other electricity-using tool.

c) A fold-out wing expands the work surface and disappears when not in use.

d) Chairs and stools that tuck out of the way make it easier to move around the space.

e) Fill shelves with folded fabric, how-to books, albums—or add a basket to gather loose materials.

f) Use rods and racks to round up rolls of ribbon, fabric and wrapping paper.

g) Establish a hierarchy for materials and tools. Which are needed most often? Which would display attractively? Place items used most frequently in areas easiest

a) Slotted walls keep often-used tools, toys and supplies off the floor and provide easy access.

b) Drawers and doors of various sizes enclose and disguise an assortment of stuff.

c) Garden grower? Wood worker? Grease monkey? Outfit your garage with a station that suits your passion.

d) Elevated storage protects against moisture damage from spills, rain or snow melt.

e) Ease the indoor-outdoor transition with spots for shoes and boots and a place to set groceries. Lower cubbies allow kids to reach their toys and gear.