INSIDER INSIGHT
EXPERT ADVICE ON MAKING THE MOST OF YOUR AVAILABLE SPACE
DESIGNING WARDROBES Built-in wardrobes are vital to make every bit of space work as hard as possible and maximise the number of jeans, shoes and bags that need to be stored. ‘We ask our clients to do a big clear out and count every piece in their wardrobes,’ says Irene Gunter of Gunter & Co. ‘We then have a great basis to work out what takes priority in your wardrobe – is it shelving, hanging space, or the shoe collection that are the key drivers?’ Measuring arm spans establishes how much hanging space can be included: shirts with double cuffs need a lot more hanging space than a lady’s row of skirts. ‘Finally, vertical lighting looks impressive and is less expensive than lighting every shelf.’
MORE SPACE FOR BOOKS Few of us are happy with the idea of getting rid of favourite books, so unless the house is very large, finding room for the ever-expanding library can be a challenge. After exhausting space on the shelves – including double stacking if necessary – have a look around to see if there’s any ‘dead’ space that could be put to better use. ‘Many Victorian properties have natural shallow recesses at the top of stairs making this suitable for books or objets d’art,’ recommends Eamonn Agha of Huntsmore, a design and build company. ‘This immediately makes the home feel warm and lived in.’ You can also look at boxing in radiators and building bookshelves around this – it has the effect of drawing the eye to the books, not the joinery.’
BEHIND THE CURTAIN Remember that there are alternatives to doors and cabinets when it comes to hiding storage areas out of sight. Something we’re seeing coming back into fashion is the use of fabric skirts or pretty curtains – particularly in kitchens. Garden designer Bridget Elworthy is a fan: ‘It makes everything so much easier to access. It’s annoying having to open a door every time I want to get something from a shelf, especially in a kitchen where you want to find things easily and quickly.’
ACCESS ALL AREAS When in search of extra storage space, make the most of ceiling heights available. Built-in joinery or off-the-shelf solutions can provide the perfect amount of extra room to house items only used for special occasions or rarely read books. However, where possible, think about adding a ladder for access. ‘They work particularly well in period conversions,’ recommends Annie Ebenston, designer at Blakes London. ‘Why waste all that high-level storage potential when you can design in a ladder. Aside from the obvious practical benefits, they add character and a focal point to a room.’
“CURTAINS IN LIEU OF DOORS ON STORAGE MAKE FOR AN INVITING SPACE. THEY ADD AN ELEMENT OF TRADITION AND NOSTALGIA TO A ROOM”
LISA MEHYDENE, founder of Edit58