THE KITCHEN

 Open shelves are the best place for the items you love and use the most. They needn’t be new shelves – upcycle an old set with paint to suit your scheme.

 Vintage jars look decorative on display, and it’s easy to find ingredients at a glance.

 Regularly clear out kitchen cupboards, removing everything to give shelves a thorough clean and check for out-of-date items.

 Use every inch of shelf space with an under-shelf basket, plate-stacking shelf or cutlery organiser: try Lakeland or A Place For Everything for a good selection.

 Hang a rail for utensils near the hob so they’re always to hand.

 A trolley on wheels makes a great additional worksurface that stores away neatly after use.  It’s surprising how many things can be adapted for storage on a peg rail. Attach fabric loops to tea towels and oven mitts, or string leather cord through wooden items.

 In a tight space, choose a dining table that extends or folds, together with stacking or folding chairs. Chairs can be hung from brackets on the wall when not in use.

 Dressers come in many styles but, for maximum storage, opt for one with glazed doors to display favourite pieces, drawers for linens and cupboards to store seldom-used crockery.

 Find a local joiner to make space-saving banquette seating with storage space inside.

 Invest in a freestanding or built-in larder. As well as shelving, some have drawers and a marble shelf for food preparation.