Shira Gill’s kid-happy tips

Organizing kid art supplies Using a three-tier cart from Ikea, Shira places tools like washable markers, crayons and pencils on the top tier, package-free and in planter pots. The middle tier holds white and colored paper; and when they’re finished crafting, the girls toss their worksin-progress in the bottom bin. Getting hooked “I used wall-mounted hooks and shaker pegs for everything under the sun,” Shira says. Hang coats, hats, jewelry, sports gear and more up high to keep floors clutter-free. A uniform set of baskets are also great for storing toys, linens and magazines. Choosing quality over quantity By not having a lot of space, the Gills choose wisely and can in turn invest in better-quality furniture and decor, like the Roost rattan chair from Erica Tanov and the collection of Heath Ceramics displayed in their kitchen. Storing less means less storage “It’s common for people to believe they just need more storage, but in my experience all roads lead to decluttering,” says Shira. By giving a space a thorough edit first, by donating and repurposing, you may find that you don’t need to invest in much to refresh your space. Holding on to sentimentals Shira doesn’t place a high value on objects but leaves room for a few mementos. Everyone in the family gets a box to stow away things that hold some significance to them. A few things from her late father are also displayed around the house: a small wooden apple on her desk and his famous recipe for grown-up mac and cheese framed on the kitchen wall.

The white kitchen in Shira Gill’s Berkeley Craftsman home.

Photos by Vivian Johnson Shira Gill freshened the kitchen, left, of her Berkeley Craftsman with white paint and tile. She also relies on wall hooks and pegs, here and inset, for easy organizing.