Cities rapidly expanding and advancing and providing possibilities, infrastructure, and amenities have drawn many people to settle there. As a result, people are cramming themselves into small, tight spaces to live, work, and socialize. Storage is an issue in these confined spaces. If used carefully, however, the small, constrained space does not limit the user’s storage demands. It’s all about using the best available resources as efficiently as possible. The fundamental architectural components, such as the walls, the floor, and the structure, may be cleverly utilized to provide various storage options. In Small spaces storage quantity can be increased with intelligent ideas and proper proportions. Every designer should remember that every square inch of space matters! Here are 15 fantastic storage ideas for small spaces.

1. Cabinets on Wall | Storage Ideas for Small Spaces

Walls can be utilized as an element for providing storage. Wall storage cabinets can have access to a large additional space for storage in bedroom, passage, bathroom or pantry, office working space, etc. Utilizing the entire wall up to the ceiling is more advantageous since there is no wasted space and the interior wall can be used for storage. 

Treasured items can be stored safely and prevented from being lost in cabinets. The choice of wall to install them on is critical considering that they are wall-mounted. An excellent wall storage cabinet can help to effortlessly manage every room and hide things that aren’t needed.

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Cabinets on wall_©ikea.com/
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Cabinets on wall_©stirworld.com/
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Cabinets on wall_©Adam Scott Images

2. Peg Board Wall

The Peg Board wall is like a cheery peachy one for simple rearranging, nice aesthetics, and a lot of flexible storage. It is a perforated hardboard, equally spaced predrilled holes in the board. One can further organize its storage as needed with pegs and hooks. Specifically, steel or wood was used in its construction.

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Peg Wall storage_©aspynovard.com/diyhousemakeover
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Peg Wall storage_©aspynovard.com/diyhousemakeover
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Peg Wall storage_©ikea.com/

3. Hanging storage | Storage Ideas for Small Spaces

Hanging storage provides feasibility and easy accessibility to the items. Organised efforts can be improved with hanging storage options. Hanging storage can be arranged differently to fit kitchen, bedroom, bathrooms, garage, and other spaces. It makes the most of the already possesed space rather than pining for more closets.

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Hanging storage_©The Spruce / Ali Elshabrawi

Adding a couple of hooks under each floating shelf allows shelving to last over time. This increases storage capacity and provides a convenient landing spot for bags and sweaters. 

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hooks under floating shelf _©alsomom.com/
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hanging storage_©Paul Massey

4. Shelves for Wall storage

Open shelving can make a room feel brighter, bigger, and more open. It’s also usually an affordable and effective method to organize, showcase, and store miscellaneous items. It may serve as a gallery wall, media wall, home office, and room divider.

Using shelf dividers is a terrific technique to define and separate various room divisions, especially if it’s a tiny studio. There is no longer a need to construct walls since an open shelving unit will provide the extra space needed for storage while adding a distinctive character to the room’s interior design.

Instead of a solid partition wall to separate a room, an open shelf system that serves as bookshelves or something else would provide more storage and be aesthetically appealing with a faded visual connection to the adjacent space. Utilizing divider shelves is simple and useful. It permits light to go from one area of the room to another while yet allowing for a unique purpose in each place.

Having a foldable shelf provides the feasibility of storage as and when needed. When unfolded, it provides countless storage options for spaces ranging from the kitchen to the office and practically blends into the surrounding wall when not in use. This idea may also be applied to building a compact workstation for working from home.

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Foldable Shelves_©thearchitectsdiary.com/
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Image of Foldable Shelves_©yankodesign.com/
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Shelf Dividers_©mydesignagenda.com/

5. Utilising the residual/dead space for storge | Storage Ideas for Small Spaces

A clever and effective way to build storage in a small space is to use the leftover areas created by the building structure, such as columns, beams, load-bearing walls, ceilings, doors, windows, and floors.

Having shelves and cabinets for the residual space formed by interfering columns or a load-bearing wall in the space is one of the best solutions for storage for small spaces. For simple access to clothing, shoes, and other items, install drawers into the sides of elevated hardwood flooring.

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Image of Utilizing the residual space for storge_© www.admiddleeast.com/
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Utilizing the residual space for storge_©livingbiginatinyhouse

6. Storage beneath the seating

Choose stowaway storage to hide the necessities for your living space. An expansive ottoman with a lift-up top is ideal for storing extra cushions, large blankets, or kid’s toys. To make a bench with storage and sitting, turn a thin shelf on its side. Place a basket or storage container within each tier of the shelves to fill the area.

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storage space beneath the seating_© Sofology
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storage space beneath the seating_©Future PLC/ Dominic Blackmore
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storage space beneath the seating_©Julien Fernandez

7. Stairs as an element of storage | Storage Ideas for Small Spaces

The space under the stair is awkward and mostly not used. It typically remains underutilized and neglected due o its low head height and difficulty in fitting standard-sized furniture. However, it is not necessary. For small and compact spaces, the space beneath the stairs can be utilized for storage. 

Steps can be converted into drawers to make room for clothing, sporting goods, kids’ toys, and other items. The area under the stairs may be transformed into cabinets, a small office, a utility area, pull-out storage drawers, a lounging and reading area with storage, and a central family storage hub with hooks and hangers to hang boots, jackets, umbrellas, scarves, and more.

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Image of Under space storage space of stairs_©Future PLC/ Dominic Blackmore
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Image of Under space storage space of stairs_©Future PLC/ Dominic Blackmore
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Image of Under space storage space of stairs_©Future PLC/ Dominic Blackmore
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Image of Under space storage space of stairs_©Future PLC/ Dominic Blackmore

8. Multipurpose furniture

Consider adding furnishings that can be quickly transformed for usage in another way rather than choosing one-use items. Depending on how you arrange it, a drop-leaf table may serve as a console, a workstation, or a full-blown dining room table. In addition, two consoles may be turned so that they stand back-to-back for bar-height table seating. Convertible furniture, such as a chair that can also double as a ladder, is useful for maximising space and maximising reach.

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Image of Multipurpose Furniture_©livinginashoebox.com/
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Image of Multipurpose Furniture_©livinginashoebox.com/
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Image of Multipurpose Furniture_©experthometips.com/

9. Storage behind the Shutters

There are other places than the interior of cupboards or closets where things can be stored. Additionally, things can be kept and store behind the shutters or doors. Organizing storage goods, crafts materials, daily skin care products, shopping receipts, everyday necessities, files and essential papers, spice bottles, warm clothes, and other stuff becomes much easier to increase in storage capacity. To be more arranged and straight, each pocket can be given a tag.

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Storage behind the Shutters_©Jay Wilde

An important thing that need to be considered is the amount of space organisers can have when the door is shut. The space between the door and the floor, the top doorjamb, and the door’s closing should all be measured. Organisers of that size must be bought based on this space to ensure the clearance on the door’s closure, the top door jamb, and between the door and floor. Considering this space, organisers of that size should be purchased.  

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Storage behind the Shutters_©Granen Photography Inc
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Storage behind the Shutters_©Jay Wilde

The storage space beneath the shutters may be made more flexible. Modular components enable the door storage to be customized to the organising requirements. A fixed pole with various-sized hanging hooks is a clever solution to store shoes. It can also have a little hanging bucket filled with cosmetics attached to it.

10. Use Ceiling Spaces | Storage Ideas for Small Spaces

Hallways make the greatest use of overhead storage. They can also be employed in locations with high ceilings. A shelf can be mounted below the ceiling throughout its length to generate storage. Then, it can be modified and made adaptable in accordance with the need and specifications. 

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use of ceiling spaces for storage_©www.atticgroup.com.au/
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use of ceiling spaces for storage_©www.ikea.com/

A basic rope may be used to make an open wardrobe in place of cabinets. This may be accomplished by installing a few hooks in the ceiling and building a pulley out of a rod and rope. This may be an additional expansion of the wardrobe. This straightforward approach is inventive and may be utilized to manage everyday necessities.

Making a false ceiling up to the window or door lintel level for storage is another smart way to increase storage in small spaces. Books, baskets, bed linens, bed liners, comforters, and other items can be placed in this area.

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use of ceiling spaces for storage_©Carina Romano

11. Pullout cabinets for more Storage

To maximise the use of storage space, a thin shelf unit can be fitted in small, confined spaces. A lovely and organised solution can be achieved by placing little stuff like sauce, salt, jars, and spice bottles.

The best way to deal with blind corners is using pullout mechanism. It is found at the place that has cabinets, including bathrooms and kitchens, but is most frequently found and is common in kitchens. These corners with pull-out storage are able to make the most use of available space

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pullout cabinets for storage_©Hammacher Schlemmer
pullout cabinets for storage_©www.kitchenfittingsdirect.com/
pullout cabinets for storage_©www.kitchenfittingsdirect.com/

Pull out cabinets that opens up into a chopping surface with storage beneath is another smart way to store and utilise the small kitchen space.

pullout cabinets for storage_©www.ikea.com/
pullout cabinets for storage_©www.ikea.com/

12. Invest in trolleys

When it comes to storage solutions for small spaces, flexibility is its greatest friend. From small kitchen island ideas on wheels to storing stationery items, rolling trollies provide extra counter and storage space. They are simple to move out of the way to make room for new furniture as and when required. They may be a beautiful feature if placed in a clever way. 

trolleys_©Future Plc/Lizzie Orme
trolleys_©Future Plc/Lizzie Orme
trolleys_©www.homesdirect365.co.uk/
trolleys_©www.homesdirect365.co.uk/

Trolley, being a kitchen island with storage, it can also be utilised as a centre table for cutting and storing tools. At times it can also be a serving table for buffet.

Image of trolleys_©Nicole Cohen
Image of trolleys_©Nicole Cohen

13. Incremental storage | Storage Ideas for Small Spaces

Simple additions to the standard storage options might help you squeeze extra storage out of small spaces. You may stack storage aids on top of one another to provide more storage space. Flexibility can also be attained by sometimes utilising the other storage choices such as baskets, bags, organisers, etc.

incremental storage_©www.architecturaldigest.com/
incremental storage_©www.architecturaldigest.com/
incremental storage_©Adam Albright
incremental storage_©Adam Albright
incremental storage_©homebnc.com/
incremental storage_©homebnc.com/

14. Underbed storage

Beds provide a great opportunity to store under them. Under-the-bed storage that are concealed is its main advantage. Additionally, it frees up much-needed closet space that may be better utilised for storing additional necessities. They can be utilised to store seasonal items like thick blankets, beds, coats, luggage bags, etc.

There are several types of under-bed storage which are one with built-in storage, an ottoman bed, bed with roll out drawers beneath it, underbed storage basket, and, open shelving below the bed. The best option for storing the most is a bed with built-in storage in the form of drawers. This bed has drawers that run the entire length of it, drawers at one end, or half-and-half drawers that account for the space needed for bedside tables at the upper end of the bed.

storage under the bed_©www.getlaidbeds.com/
storage under the bed_©www.getlaidbeds.com/
storage under the bed_©www.goodhousekeeping.com/
storage under the bed_©www.goodhousekeeping.com/
storage under the bed_©Button & Sprung
storage under the bed_©Button & Sprung

Consider an ottoman-style storage bed for goods that doesn’t need frequent access. Unlike drawers, which divide space into smaller sections, it has a single, spacious chamber beneath the bed with a hollow foundation and a mattress supported by slats. Under bed organizers, woven baskets and drawers, etc. are the other options to store under the bed. 

An other method of increasing storage is to raise the height of the bed a little bit and install a small closet beneath it or cabinets with an ottoman bed.

storage under the bed_©www.homedit.com/
storage under the bed_©www.homedit.com/

15. Use windows for storage | Storage Ideas for Small Spaces

Windows are crucial to a room’s ability to receive natural light and ventilation. When the space is limited, this architectural features can be a big aid for storage. With drawers/cabinets/storage space beneath the chair, a window may be transformed into a reading or sitting area.

Simply putting a tiny shelf below the window to make room to store and show various products is another option to increase storage in small areas. Open shelves or floor-to-ceiling cabinets can be used to create a reading nook, which will be a comfortable and welcoming area.

Image fenestrations for storage_©Bri Ussery
Image fenestrations for storage_©Bri Ussery
Image fenestrations for storage_©jenn feldman designs
Image fenestrations for storage_©jenn feldman designs
Image fenestrations for storage_©jenn feldman designs
Image fenestrations for storage_©jenn feldman designs

References:

Online sources

Aspyn Ovard, n.d. DIY House Makeover!. Available at: <https://aspynovard.com/diyhousemakeover/> [Accessed 1 September 2022].

My Design Agenda. n.d. . 5 Must-use Storage Ideas To Transform Small Spaces. [online] Available at: <https://mydesignagenda.com/must-use-storage-ideas-transform-small-spaces/> [Accessed 3 September 2022].

Tucker, E., n.d. 7 ingenious small space ideas – and the designers behind them. [online] The Spaces. Available at: <https://thespaces.com/small-spaces-ideas-and-the-designers-behind-them/> [Accessed 3 September 2022].

Ideal Home. n.d. Storage solutions for small spaces – 24 brilliant ideas to store more in limited space. [online] Available at: <https://www.idealhome.co.uk/all-rooms-ideas/storage-solutions-for-small-spaces-10-ideas-90457> [Accessed 4 September 2022].

Forbes. n.d. 10 Clever Ways To Store More With Wall Shelves. [online] Available at: <https://www.forbes.com/sites/houzz/2017/04/04/10-clever-ways-to-store-more-with-wall-shelves/> [Accessed 4 September 2022].

Images/visual mediums

Ikea, n.d. [image] Available at: <http://ikea.com/gb/en/ideas/home-tour-storage-ideas-from-a-small-space-home-pubd6ac9841> [Accessed 2 September 2022].

Also Mom, n.d. [image] Available at: <http://www.alsomom.com/nursery-shelves-hooks/> [Accessed 2 September 2022].

  1. [image] Available at: <https://aspynovard.com/diyhousemakeover/> [Accessed 1 September 2022].

The Architect’s Dairy.com, 2018. VERSATILE WOOD SHELVING SYSTEM DESIGNED BY ARTEM ZAKHARCHENKO. [image] Available at: <https://thearchitectsdiary.com/versatile-wood-shelving-system-designed-artem-zakharchenko/> [Accessed 2 September 2022].

Turner, T., 2014. Modular Shelving For Micro-Living. [image] Available at: <https://www.yankodesign.com/2014/07/31/modular-shelving-for-micro-living/> [Accessed 2 September 2022].

Better Homes & Gardens. 2022. Store More with These Behind-the-Door Storage Ideas. [online] Available at: <https://www.bhg.com/decorating/storage/organization-basics/behind-the-door-storage/> [Accessed 10 September 2022].

IKEA. n.d. IKEA.com Global. [online] Available at: <https://www.ikea.com/> [Accessed 10 September 2022].

Author

A Postgraduate student of Architecture, developing an ability of Design led through Research. A perceptive observer who strives to get inspired and, in doing so, become one. Always intrigued by the harmonious relationships between people and space and the juxtaposition of the tangible and intangible in architecture.