This Unexpected $150 IKEA Kitchen Find Doubled This Bedroom’s Storage

This article highlights an innovative IKEA hack by DIY Instagrammer Sumi (@neukolln.now) from Berlin, demonstrating how a standard IKEA MALM six-drawer dresser can be transformed into a functional and stylish kitchen island, effectively doubling storage space in small kitchens. The inspiration for this hack stems from the common challenge of limited storage in compact culinary environments, where traditional cabinet space often falls short for essentials like dishes, cookware, and food items. Sumi's solution offers a practical and aesthetically pleasing alternative to conventional kitchen storage. The core of the hack involves utilizing an IKEA MALM six-drawer dresser as the base for a kitchen island. Sumi selected the white colorway of the dresser to maintain a bright and airy feel in her kitchen. To create a usable countertop surface, an oiled oak countertop was attached directly to the top of the MALM dresser using brackets. This not only provides an extended workspace for food preparation activities such as chopping, dicing, and slicing but also integrates seamlessly with existing kitchen counters, enhancing the overall functionality of the space. Elevating the MALM dresser was another key step in the transformation. IKEA legs were employed to raise the dresser to an appropriate kitchen island height. To conceal these legs and create a more polished, built-in appearance, white baseboards were added, blending them invisibly with the dresser's structure. A notable design consideration was ensuring that the MALM dresser remained slender enough under the new countertop to comfortably accommodate two barstools, promoting its use as a casual dining or seating area. Beyond its primary function as a storage and prep area, Sumi personalized the island with a touch of color. The blank backboard of the MALM dresser was painted with blue acrylic lacquer, introducing a vibrant accent to her kitchen. All the hardware used for the hack was also painted to match this blue hue, creating a cohesive and custom look. On the front side of the island, Sumi incorporated additional shelving made from precut birch wood panels. These shelves were secured to the MALM using nuts, bolts, and shelving brackets, providing accessible storage for items like pots, pans, and cookbooks. The article emphasizes the ease with which others can replicate this project, noting that all necessary components are readily available at IKEA. It specifically recommends the MALM six-drawer dresser and suggests the SÄLJAN countertop as a suitable option. The SÄLJAN countertop is highlighted for its availability in various sizes, colors, and effects, including oak/laminate, gray mineral/laminate, and black marble/laminate, allowing for customization to match diverse kitchen decors. This IKEA hack provides an ingenious and cost-effective method to enhance both the storage capacity and aesthetic appeal of small kitchens, turning a common storage unit into a versatile kitchen centerpiece. #IKEAHack #SmallKitchen #KitchenStorage #DIYProject #HomeRenovation #SpaceSaving #InteriorDesign #MalmDresser #Countertop

Small kitchens often present a significant challenge when it comes to storage solutions, frequently leaving homeowners with limited space after accommodating essential items like dishes, glasses, and cookware. This common problem can be effectively addressed through creative IKEA hacks, which offer innovative ways to maximize storage in compact kitchen environments. One such resourceful project, gaining attention from DIY enthusiasts, was conceived by Berlin-based Instagrammer Sumi (@neukolln.now), who transformed an IKEA MALM dresser into a functional and aesthetically pleasing kitchen island. Sumi's ingenious hack involved several key steps to convert the MALM dresser into a versatile kitchen island. First, an oiled oak countertop was securely attached to the top of the MALM dresser using brackets. To provide the island with appropriate height and stability, IKEA legs were incorporated, and then concealed with corresponding white baseboards, creating a seamless and integrated appearance. A notable design consideration was the dresser's slender profile beneath the countertop, which was intentionally maintained to allow ample space for two barstools, enhancing the island's utility as both a workspace and a casual dining area. Beyond its structural modifications, Sumi personalized the island with distinctive decorative touches. The blank backboard of the MALM dresser was painted with blue acrylic lacquer, introducing a vibrant pop of color that complements the kitchen's overall aesthetic. All the hardware used in the hack was also painted to match this new blue hue, ensuring a cohesive design. On the opposite side of the island, facing outwards, Sumi constructed shelving from readily available precut wood panels, specifically using inexpensive birch wood. These panels were then attached to the MALM dresser using nuts, bolts, and a shelving bracket, creating open storage compartments. This multi-functional kitchen island significantly expands the storage capabilities of Sumi's small kitchen. The newly added shelves provide dedicated space for organizing pots, pans, and cookbooks, effectively doubling the available storage. Furthermore, the extended countertop surface serves as a practical extension of the existing kitchen counters, offering an ideal area for various food preparation tasks such as chopping, dicing, and slicing. The project demonstrates how readily available IKEA furniture, combined with creative DIY methods, can provide practical and stylish solutions for small-space living, especially in kitchens where every inch of storage and counter space is valuable. This hack not only addresses a functional need but also introduces a customized design element to the kitchen. #IKEAHacks #SmallKitchenSolutions #DIYHomeProjects #KitchenStorage #MALMDresserHack #HomeDecor #SpaceSavingIdeas

The author shares a personal experience of discovering an old pack of biscuits in the back of their kitchen cabinets, which prompted a need for better organization. The article highlights the common challenge of maintaining organized kitchen cabinets, particularly for individuals who prefer less intensive methods of organization. Many social media portrayals of meticulously organized cabinets involve extensive decanting, dating, and designating specific spots for items, which can be time-consuming. To address this, the author introduces the 'Lazy Susan' or turntable as an effective and easy-to-use solution for kitchen storage. The chosen product is a clear, low-wall turntable with liners from QVC, which specifically fits the depth of the author's cabinets. By utilizing this turntable, the author managed to organize various sauces, dressings, and jars, effectively doubling the storage capacity of the shelf. The benefits of this specific turntable include its transparent design, which allows contents to be easily visible and helps the unit blend into the cabinet space. Made from plastic, it is also convenient for cleaning as it can be put through a dishwasher. The product is described as currently on sale and comes with removable silicone liners in various colors, a detail that appealed to the author's interior design sensibilities. These liners are also noted to be fridge and freezer safe, adding to the versatility and durability of the product. A key advantage of the Lazy Susan is its spinning mechanism, which prevents items from being forgotten or expiring at the back of cabinets, both in the kitchen and in the fridge or freezer. A customer review is included, praising the low-wall design for ease of access and highlighting its potential as a money-saving tool by reducing food waste. The review also mentions the intention to purchase another set for the fridge. Additionally, the article suggests alternative Lazy Susan styles to cater to different needs and aesthetic preferences. One option is a set of two Lazy Susan organizers, including a tiered design and one with a deep edge, suitable for tall cabinets and versatile for use in fridges, pantries, or even next to stovetops. Another option presented is a bamboo and wire turntable for those seeking a more stylish look, with positive customer feedback regarding its capacity and suitability for visible placement on countertops. Finally, a rectangular low-wall turntable is recommended for shallow cabinet spaces, designed to maximize storage efficiently with a simple pull-and-spin action. This rectangular option also features a silicone liner infused with an antimicrobial agent, available in multiple colors. #KitchenOrganization #StorageSolutions #HomeDecor #LazySusan #CabinetStorage #KitchenHacks #SpaceSaving #ProductReview #HomeImprovement

Living in a small apartment necessitates creative approaches to maximize storage space. The author recounts their personal experience moving into a studio apartment and the challenge of organizing numerous beauty products without a traditional vanity. The initial idea of a large bathroom vanity was impractical due to space constraints. However, the author realized that a mirrored vanity could be strategically placed in the bedroom, leveraging the principle of vertical storage which is crucial for small living areas. The search for a suitable vanity mirror for a bedroom environment proved difficult, as most designs are intended for bathrooms. The author sought a mirror that would complement their aesthetic and remain within budget. This search led to the discovery of the Fine Fixtures Greenpoint Medicine Cabinet available on Overstock. This particular cabinet was chosen for its modern design, which integrated well into the bedroom setting. A key feature that attracted the author to this medicine cabinet was its exposed shelf located below the main cabinet. This design element provides a display area for aesthetically pleasing items, such as perfume bottles, allowing them to be both accessible and decorative. The main cabinet itself offers ample, deep storage across three shelves, providing sufficient space to keep various makeup items, skincare products, and lotions neatly organized and out of sight. The cabinet's overall design not only solved a practical storage problem but also enhanced the room's decor more effectively than a standard mirror would have. The Fine Fixtures Greenpoint Medicine Cabinet, priced just under $200, is highlighted as a valuable investment for small spaces. Beyond its functional benefits as a storage solution, the item also serves as a conversation starter, often surprising guests who hadn't considered placing such a unit in a bedroom. This unconventional placement sparks interest and offers new perspectives on maximizing space. The article concludes by reinforcing the idea that such innovative solutions are beneficial for anyone seeking to optimize storage in their living areas. #Bedroom #DecorAccessories #Design #OrganizingStorage #Shopping #SmallSpaces #MedicineCabinet #VanityMirror #HomeOrganization

In a 900-square-foot New Jersey home, photographer Jillian Guyette and her husband, Robert, faced the challenge of designing a functional and clutter-free nursery for their daughter, Frankie, within a mere 112 square feet. They consciously requested minimal gifts from loved ones, prioritizing quality time with their baby over accumulating numerous items. Frankie's arrival coincided with the state's lockdown, leading to a unique experience where Jillian was among the last to have an extra person present during delivery. This period of intense togetherness and adjustment, aided by her father-in-law who lived next door, allowed for essential home renovations tailored to their small space. A key design element in the nursery is a custom reading nook created from two IKEA Kallax shelf units, each costing $100. Robert and his father stacked these units, securing them to the wall, and added trim to achieve a built-in appearance. They then modified the lower unit by removing two dividers and lining the opening with engineered birch plywood to form a cozy reading nook for Frankie. This clever hack transformed standard shelving into a personalized space where Frankie's board books are stored in baskets on the bottom shelves, while other books are artfully displayed higher up, including a cherished childhood copy of "Curious George" belonging to Jillian. The couple maintains an evening routine of tidying up to manage clutter effectively. To ensure safety and versatility, Jillian opted for an upholstered linen dresser, which had served in the guest room previously. Its soft, fabric-covered corners provide baby-proofing without a overtly childish aesthetic, allowing the piece to seamlessly transition to other uses as Frankie grows. She augmented this with a matching chest, placing both side-by-side to maximize storage and converting the top of the original dresser into a changing station. This choice reflected her preference for adaptable furniture over dedicated changing tables with short shelf lives, emphasizing that any surface of appropriate width and height can serve the purpose. The nursery's decor deliberately avoids a themed approach, instead incorporating meaningful and timeless items. A crystal ball, significant to Jillian's family history, is displayed on a high shelf, out of Frankie's reach, reflecting a blend of personal sentiment and practicality. The gallery wall above the Lolly 3-in-1 crib features an eclectic mix of art, including a linoleum block reduction from Jillian's mother, a watercolor Jillian painted during a false labor, and a banner she crafted from vintage kimono fabric and her husband’s old jeans. This curation of personal pieces imbues the small space with character and warmth, proving that sentimental and special items can be integrated into a nursery without being specifically child-centric, thereby maximizing the impact of a compact environment. #NurseryDesign #SmallSpaceLiving #IKEAHack #DIYHomeDecor #StorageSolutions #BabyProofing #SentimentalDecor #KidsRooms

Architect Michael Geller and his wife, Tess, transformed their 495-square-foot one-bedroom apartment in Greenwich Village, Manhattan, infusing it with a unique "Greco Deco" theme that blends Mediterranean influences with Art Deco details and 1970s aesthetics. The renovation, initially expected to take three months but extending to nine, aimed to make the tiny prewar space feel larger, brighter, and more functional, leveraging Geller's experience with period homes. A significant part of the renovation focused on the compact 36-square-foot kitchen. While Geller initially planned to fully open it to the living room, plumbing constraints prevented this. Instead, he partially removed a wall, relocated the doorway to create a wider opening, and completely flipped the cabinet layout. This strategic change allowed for the inclusion of an L-shaped countertop, a 24-inch range, and a full-size refrigerator, effectively nearly doubling the storage capacity. The new custom cabinets were painted in Benjamin Moore’s buttery White Down to ensure the kitchen felt warm regardless of natural light. The bathroom underwent a careful restoration to align with its original 1920s architecture. Geller salvaged and reinstalled the existing medicine cabinet, replacing a modern budget vanity with an American Standard console sink that captured the desired Art Deco feel. The walls were covered in simple subway tiles with white grout, chosen for the interesting texture it created. For the flooring, he selected prewar-style penny tiles, appreciated for their tactile quality underfoot, and updated them with dark contrasting grout to modernize the look. Other areas of the apartment received thoughtful upgrades. Hardwood floors were refinished, new built-in closets were installed, and antique 19th-century doorknobs were sourced from Olde Good Things, reflecting Geller's early vision for the apartment. A striking design element was introduced by painting the doors and millwork in Benjamin Moore’s Space Black, a spontaneous decision inspired by decorator David Hicks’s signature style, adapting a classic solution to a contemporary setting. Furniture and decor were also carefully curated to maintain the apartment's "Greco Deco" theme. In the living room, Geller designed a console table with a horse-leg motif, drawing inspiration from the Villa Kerylos on the French Riviera. This piece was paired with a 1973 super-graphic silk screen by Reis & Manwaring and a sculptural artwork from a friend, further cementing the eclectic blend of 1920s and 1970s influences. The overall design successfully connects disparate decades, creating a cohesive and stylish living space. #ApartmentRenovation #SmallSpaceDesign #KitchenRemodel #BathroomRenovation #InteriorDesign #ArtDeco #GrecoDeco #ManhattanApartment #HomeTransformation

The article addresses a common kitchen organization challenge: the chaotic storage of plastic food storage bags. Many individuals struggle with drawers overflowing with ripped cardboard boxes containing various sizes of plastic bags, leading to frustration and inefficiency. To combat this issue, Target's Brightroom brand has introduced a bamboo plastic bag organizer that is gaining popularity among shoppers. This organizer features four individual slots designed to neatly accommodate snack, sandwich, quart, and gallon-sized bags, effectively eliminating the mess associated with traditional box storage. The modular design of the organizer allows for flexibility, as the four separate sections can be arranged to best fit various drawer layouts. When assembled in a square configuration, it measures just under 13 inches, providing a compact and aesthetic solution for drawer clutter. Reviewers highlight the product's sturdy bamboo construction, its ability to transform messy drawers into visually appealing, organized spaces, and its ease of use for refilling and retrieving bags. The article emphasizes that this organizer is an affordable and practical tool for enhancing kitchen efficiency and aesthetics, making the daily task of grabbing a plastic bag much simpler. Beyond the primary focus on plastic bag organization, the article also showcases other kitchen storage and organization solutions available at Target. These include a large marble utensil crock from Threshold, praised for its weight and ability to hold bigger cooking tools without tipping. It also features Rubbermaid's Brilliance line of leak-proof food storage containers, which are highly regarded across various online platforms for their airtight seal, clear BPA-free plastic, and versatility for leftovers and pantry storage. Another recommended item is a stackable wire pantry basket with rubberwood handles, ideal for housing produce due to its ventilation and convenient front opening. For those looking to streamline their countertops, a stoneware oil pour bottle from Figmint is presented as a stylish alternative to store-bought oil bottles. A two-tiered slide-out organizer, while shown with bathroom supplies, is suggested for use under the kitchen sink to manage cleaning products and sponges. Additionally, a vertical storage rack is highlighted for organizing awkward items like baking sheets, cutting boards, and frying pans, helping to clear countertops. For smaller items, a set of magnetic bag clips offers a neat way to seal open bags, and a large glass storage jar provides an aesthetically pleasing option for dry goods in the pantry. Finally, for knife storage, an in-drawer bamboo knife organizer is recommended to preserve blade sharpness and keep cutting implements safely arranged, alongside a rotating two-tier spice rack for easy access to frequently used spices and a cabinet-mounted rack for discrete storage of spice collections. A rubberwood cookbook or tablet stand is also suggested for keeping recipes accessible yet away from food prep areas. All these products aim to improve kitchen functionality, reduce clutter, and enhance the overall visual appeal of the space. #KitchenOrganization #HomeDecor #StorageSolutions #TargetShopping #PlasticBagOrganizer #KitchenStorage #DrawerOrganization #HouseholdEssentials

The author recounts the challenges of optimizing storage in a small, awkwardly configured bathroom in a one-bedroom Brooklyn apartment. With only 12.5 inches between the sink and the toilet, traditional storage solutions were inadequate. Initially, an open IKEA bar cart was used, but it offered minimal storage, equivalent to only two bathroom drawers, and left personal items exposed. This setup was impractical and lacked privacy. After researching alternatives, a slim cabinet from Wayfair, specifically the Oxfordshire Freestanding Linen Cabinet, was identified as a potential solution. The author selected the larger version (55.7" H x 11.8" W x 11.8" D) without knobs, available in dove gray or white, and made from stain-resistant, waterproof manufactured wood. The cabinet features two slide-out drawers and three open shelves, with additional space on top for storage. Assembly of the cabinet took a few hours but was described as relatively straightforward compared to other Wayfair products. Due to tiled walls and the absence of pets or children, the author chose not to anchor the cabinet to the wall, although this option is available for safety. The new cabinet significantly increased storage capacity, allowing the author to consolidate items from the old bar cart and an entire drawer's worth of beauty products, thereby freeing up considerable space. Implementing a vertical storage strategy proved highly effective in the cramped bathroom. Despite its proximity to the sink, the cabinet has remained free from water damage and is easy to clean. The author emphasizes the practicality and surprising sturdiness of this budget-friendly solution for small spaces, highlighting its role in making the bathroom a less cluttered environment. The article concludes by recommending this type of vertical storage for maximizing space in limited areas. #BathroomStorage #SmallSpaceSolutions #WayfairFinds #HomeOrganization #LinenCabinet #ApartmentLiving #VerticalStorage #HomeImprovement

In contemporary living, bedrooms increasingly serve multiple functions beyond just sleeping, often doubling as study or activity spaces. This article provides practical storage solutions for optimizing such multi-functional bedrooms, drawing insights from IKEA Australia Interior Design Leader Christine Gough. The advice is illustrated through two real-life scenarios: Charlie, a high school student needing better organization for his studies and hobbies in Mt. Waverly, Melbourne, and Kasia, a mother of two in Bidwell, NSW, who works from her bedroom and requires a space that can easily transition between a professional environment and a relaxing retreat. The first solution focuses on reconfiguring wardrobes to create hidden workspaces. Kasia's bedroom transformation exemplifies this, where a wall shelf (BERGSHULT / EKBY VALTER) and a compact table and stool were integrated into her wardrobe. This setup allowed her to store work files and convert the wardrobe into a functional office, which could then be closed off to restore the room's serene atmosphere, emphasizing the concept of making the bedroom feel like an oasis rather than an office. The second tip highlights the importance of utilizing vertical height for storage. Christine Gough points out that often, spaces above wardrobes or chests of drawers are overlooked and can be effectively used to store items, thereby maximizing the room's overall storage capacity without encroaching on floor space. Thirdly, the article encourages considering all unused spaces within the bedroom, extending beyond traditional wardrobes. This includes areas such as under the bed or behind the door. The recommendation is to use storage boxes that can be easily hidden or accessed, and to creatively use hooks, rails, and racks to transform awkward spaces into functional storage zones. The fourth solution suggests incorporating storage boxes, like KOMPLEMENT boxes, within drawers to maximize their organizational potential. Charlie's revamped PAX wardrobe, equipped with KOMPLEMENT organizers and STUK, demonstrates how different clothes and accessories can be neatly arranged. The article also advises separating items by season as a helpful organizational strategy, which can also reveal unused items that can then be stored away, such as under the bed. Finally, the article emphasizes that storage doesn't solely mean hiding things away; it can also be an opportunity to showcase personal passions. Charlie's love for sports was accommodated by using a VAJERT rail with four hooks and a MACKAPÄR shoe rack to display his collections, making his sports gear easily accessible while maintaining a tidy appearance. This approach helps in zoning out different activity areas within the room, ensuring that even openly displayed items contribute to an organized and personalized space. These strategies collectively offer adaptable and efficient ways to manage storage in bedrooms that serve multiple purposes, ensuring functionality and aesthetic appeal. #BedroomStorage #HomeOffice #SpaceSaving #IKEA #HomeOrganization #InteriorDesign #MultiFunctionalSpaces #DIYStorage #BedroomDecor

The article discusses a creative and cost-effective home decor solution implemented by Brittney Morgan and her wife, Sara, in their eclectic Nashville apartment. Faced with an open-concept living space, a design popular for its airy feel and sense of community but less favored by some during the COVID-19 pandemic for its lack of defined areas, the couple sought a way to create a functional division without making permanent alterations to their rental unit. Their primary goal was to establish a distinct entryway, preventing the front door from opening directly into the main living area and providing a designated spot for essentials like keys and shoes. This division also aimed to mitigate the perceived darkness in the main living space by allowing natural light to filter through, addressing a concern about limited window access. To achieve this, Brittney and Sara utilized IKEA’s versatile KALLAX shelving system, a well-known and classic product from the brand. The strategic placement of this unit served as an effective room divider, transforming the open layout into more compartmentalized zones. The KALLAX system, priced at under $200, offered not only a spatial separation but also significant functional benefits. The couple enhanced its utility by incorporating cabinet doors and baskets into some of the shelves, cleverly concealing frequently used items. One section was even designated as a 'junk drawer,' highlighting the practical and discreet storage capabilities of their hack. The upper rows of the KALLAX unit were intentionally left open, allowing natural light to penetrate further into the apartment and providing display space for decorative objects and plants, adding a touch of greenery and personal style to the room. The KALLAX unit's dual purpose—as a room divider and a storage solution—was a key aspect of its success. It effectively carved out a vestibule, offering a transitional area that allows for a mental and physical decompression upon entering the home. This space provides an opportunity for residents to shed the day's external layers before fully engaging with their personal living environment. The cleverness of this design choice has garnered considerable attention, with visitors frequently inquiring about the feature and expressing surprise upon learning that it is an IKEA product, underscoring the ingenuity of the customization. The article highlights this specific IKEA hack as an example of ingenious design, suggesting that Brittney and Sara’s home features other notable design elements. This approach caters to renters who often face limitations on structural modifications and seek adaptable, affordable, and aesthetically pleasing solutions to optimize their living spaces. The narrative underscores the potential of readily available, budget-friendly furniture to solve common home design challenges, particularly in creating defined areas within open-plan or rental properties. #HomeDecor #IKEAHack #RoomDivider #RentalDecor #OpenConcept #StorageSolutions #DIYHome

Many modern kitchens are designed with more drawers than lower cabinets due to the convenience of accessing items by sliding them out rather than crouching and searching through deep cubbies. Even professional cooks, like Molly Baz, emphasize the practicality of drawers for efficient kitchen organization. However, not all kitchens are equipped with an abundance of drawers, and some, like that of style contributor Julia Stevens, may lack them entirely. Overcrowding existing cabinets is not an ideal solution for kitchens with limited drawer space. Recognizing this common challenge, Yamazaki Home has introduced a new product: the Countertop Drawer With Pullout Shelf. This innovative solution allows individuals to add a functional drawer to their kitchen space without the need for a costly or time-consuming renovation, and it is available for $160. The Countertop Drawer With Pullout Shelf is designed to combat countertop clutter by providing organized storage. Its sturdy steel construction supports larger appliances, such as microwaves or coffee makers, weighing up to 37 pounds on its top surface. Inside the approximately 15-by-18-inch unit, users can store various kitchen essentials, including tea towels and tinfoil, that might otherwise be left scattered on the counter. A key feature of this product is its integrated pullout shelf, which can hold items like a mug or a bowl of cereal, effectively compensating for any loss of countertop surface area that the unit itself might occupy. While the Countertop Drawer offers a practical storage solution, it does come with a couple of considerations. It takes up a portion of precious prep space on the countertop. Additionally, the product is currently only available in black and white. While these color options may blend seamlessly with certain kitchen aesthetics, such as those featuring soapstone counters or Chantilly lace cabinets, they might stand out more prominently in other decor schemes compared to a custom-built addition. Despite these minor limitations, in many settings, the product’s integrated design is subtle enough that observers might not immediately identify it as an aftermarket addition, offering a near-seamless integration into the kitchen environment. #KitchenOrganization #KitchenStorage #YamazakiHome #CountertopDrawer #HomeImprovement #SmallSpaces #KitchenSolutions #RenovationAlternative

A Kmart shopper has shared an innovative adaptation of a popular kitchen storage hack, utilizing a different Kmart product to create a stylish and functional shelving unit. The original hack, which involved transforming $15 three-tier bathroom caddies into a space-saving kitchen bench organizer, gained significant traction among Kmart enthusiasts. This new variation employs a $15 chrome corner caddy, also from Kmart's bathroom section, offering an alternative aesthetic that appeals to those whose kitchens do not suit the original black caddy. The shopper posted images of her modified hack in the 'Kmart Home Decor & Hacks Australia' Facebook group, where it was met with positive feedback. Instead of the conventional three-tier floor caddy, she opted for the chrome corner caddy, which features three sections suitable for inserting shelves. For the shelves themselves, she ingeniously repurposed placemats from the craft section at Bunnings, covering them with white contact paper to match her kitchen decor. The entire structure is secured with zippy ties, super glue, and clear tape, ensuring the shelves are aligned and stable. This fresh take on the hack was widely appreciated within the online community, with many users expressing a preference for the chrome finish over the original black. Suggestions for further enhancements, such as incorporating a cord hider from Amazon, were also shared. The original concept of converting shower caddies into kitchen shelving units is attributed to New Zealander Lainee Hermsen. Hermsen's initial motivation stemmed from a desire for additional kitchen bench storage without committing to permanent fixtures. She explored building a custom unit but found the cost prohibitive, estimated at around $200. Her discovery of the versatile Kmart caddies provided a cost-effective solution, allowing her to construct a removable and portable shelving unit using two three-tier floor caddies and a wooden plank. Hermsen noted that the hack significantly improved the functionality of her kitchen, offering customizable shelf heights and lengths, and providing convenient storage for items like fruit or teas. She emphasized the practical yet aesthetically pleasing nature of her creation. The success of Hermsen's original hack has inspired numerous Kmart shoppers to replicate and adapt the idea, extending its application to various areas of the home, including home offices for desk storage. #KmartHack #KitchenStorage #DIYHomeDecor #BudgetFriendly #HomeOrganization #CreativeSolutions #ShopperInnovation #InteriorDesign

This article highlights a Red Barrel Studio Bathroom Floor Storage Cabinet available on Wayfair, currently on sale for under $100. The cabinet is presented as an effective solution for organizing bathrooms, which often become cluttered with skincare, makeup, hair tools, washcloths, towels, and toilet paper. The product offers ample storage space through four large, adjustable shelves, divided into two sections with two doors each. This design allows for customization to fit various item sizes and helps maintain an organized appearance. Beyond its primary function in bathrooms, the article points out the versatility of this storage unit. Shoppers have utilized it in other areas of their homes, such as hallways and entryways, to conceal miscellaneous items and enhance tidiness. One customer specifically mentioned its perfect fit for a small bathroom, appreciating its compact size and ability to add a 'pop of color.' Another user highlighted its utility in a hallway, effectively hiding clutter and contributing to a 'neat and tidy' aesthetic. Additionally, a customer found it suitable for kitchen storage, indicating its adaptability to different room types. Rachel Trujillo, a shopping writer with seven years of experience, authored the article, bringing a professional perspective to product reviews. The cabinet is available in five colors: white, green, blue, gray, and slate gray, providing options to match various interior decors. The adjustable shelves are a key feature, offering five different height options, which prevents wasted space and accommodates diverse storage needs. For those requiring different storage solutions, the article mentions that Wayfair offers a broader selection of storage cabinets. It also includes links to other related products on sale, such as the Almetter Freestanding Bathroom Cabinet, Ebern Designs Bathroom Floor Storage Cabinet, and Red Barrel Studio Marbeth Bathroom Cabinet, providing readers with alternative options for their storage requirements. The piece emphasizes the functional and aesthetic benefits of the Red Barrel Studio cabinet, positioning it as a practical and attractive addition to any home. #StorageCabinet #BathroomStorage #WayfairDeal #HomeOrganization #FurnitureSale #InteriorDesign #HomeDecor

Living in New York City presents a significant challenge for residents needing additional storage solutions, as apartment sizes often restrict the addition of new furniture. This dilemma prompted a search for creative storage options, particularly leveraging the often underutilized space beneath the bed. While traditional under-bed storage bins and dustproof bags exist, they frequently lead to items getting lost, snagged, or exposed to dust, failing to provide an ideal solution. The need for a more integrated and efficient storage system led to the consideration of a bed frame specifically designed with storage in mind. The Saatva Halle bed frame with storage emerged as a promising solution. Unlike bed frames with side drawers that may not fit certain bedroom layouts, the Halle features a hidden compartment beneath the mattress, accessed via a hydraulic lift mechanism. This design ensures that the storage remains out of sight, contributing to a decluttered aesthetic. The article highlights how this feature transformed the bedroom's functionality by eliminating clutter and improving accessibility to stored items. The delivery and installation process, while initially extended due to a pre-delivery inspection discovering damage, was ultimately smooth and efficient. The installation team handled the setup, including placing the mattress, and removed all packaging, contributing to a hassle-free experience. The Halle bed frame is constructed from hardwood and features a fully upholstered frame and attached headboard, negating the need for a box spring. Its queen exterior measures 65 inches wide, 87 inches long, and 48.3 inches high at the headboard, with an interior storage capacity of 57.3 inches wide, 82.2 inches long, and 7.7 inches deep. The storage compartment includes a vertical divider and a base platform, ensuring items are not directly on the floor. Despite the mattress's significant weight, the hydraulic lift mechanism allows for easy opening and closing, and a safety lock feature prevents the platform from falling when the storage is open. The storage compartment is effectively divided into two sections, accommodating various storage bins and making organization exciting. The bed's design allows for the storage of numerous items, though it's noted that deep suitcases might not fit. The frame's linen fabric wraps around the entire exterior, concealing the storage handles and maintaining a seamless, timeless appearance that integrates well with evolving interior styles. The advantages of the Saatva Halle bed frame include its high quality, performance upholstery, ease of operation for lifting and closing, ample storage capacity, and timeless design. However, it is a heavy piece of furniture, making it difficult to move independently, and the storage handles are visible. Additionally, there are limited color and fabric options available. Overall, the Saatva Halle bed frame offers a practical and stylish solution for individuals seeking additional storage without compromising bedroom aesthetics. Its integrated design, robust construction, and efficient storage capacity provide a valuable addition to any living space, particularly in environments where space optimization is crucial. The frame is presented as a durable investment, built to last and adapt to changing decor preferences. #BedroomStorage #FurnitureReview #SpaceSavingSolutions #HomeOrganization #Saatva #BedFrame #InteriorDesign #NYCapartment

This blog post details how professional organizer Shira Gill helped photographer and freelance content producer Zoe Ching overhaul her kitchen pantry and bathroom vanity drawer using affordable dividers. Ching, despite a recent renovation of her Portland, Oregon, Craftsman bungalow in 2018, found herself struggling with excessive clutter and inefficient storage, with items overflowing into her garage. The pantry organization began with emptying all contents onto the kitchen island. Expired items were discarded, leaving only regularly used goods like Asian sauces and Fly by Jing tasting packs. Gill then applied a "supermarket manager" approach, merchandising the space by placing opened snacks in front and surplus items behind them for easy rotation. Tall oils and sauces were neatly arranged on bamboo lazy Susans, while most other items were placed in deep dividers, many costing as little as $5 from the Container Store. Ching also repurposed old glass jars for dried fruit. This systematic approach transformed the pantry, making cooking and spending time in the kitchen a more pleasant experience. Following the pantry makeover, Gill and Ching addressed the bathroom vanity drawer, a persistent pain point for Ching due to difficulty locating daily-use items. Instead of sorting by product category, they focused on separating frequently used items such as deodorant, lip gloss, and mascara from back-stock products. These daily essentials were then dedicated to a single top drawer in the vanity. During this process, Ching discarded expired products and donated duplicates to friends, further streamlining her collection. An additional "treat-yourself" item, a face mask, was included in the drawer to encourage regular use. To organize the vanity drawer, they utilized leftover drawer dividers from the kitchen project. These long containers proved effective in preventing tubes of cream and sharp tweezers from rolling around, maintaining order within the drawer. Ching expressed that this new system served as a catalyst, inspiring her to organize the rest of her bathroom and significantly improving her daily routine, making it more relaxed. The article highlights the effectiveness of simple, affordable organizational tools and a systematic approach in transforming cluttered spaces into functional and enjoyable areas. #HomeOrganization #PantryOrganization #BathroomVanity #StorageSolutions #ProfessionalOrganizer #SmallSpaceLiving #DIYHome #ContainerStore #AffordableDecor

This blog post details a bedroom renovation project undertaken by interior designer and seasoned renovator, Kayla Nelson, who transformed her childhood bedroom into a sophisticated adult sanctuary for $5,500. The project, with a square footage of 180 and a timeline of approximately one month, focused on doubling storage and elevating the room's aesthetic through molding, paint, and IKEA hacks. Nelson's bedroom, originally a garage, underwent several changes over the years, including a purple paint job and the addition of two freestanding IKEA Pax units for storage. However, she desired more sophisticated storage and a more refined ambiance. The recent renovation involved integrating two additional IKEA Pax wardrobes, totaling four, to create a built-in closet system. To achieve this, Nelson built a 2-by-4 base on the subfloor for the wardrobes, incorporating a window seat. Another 2-by-4 structure was built above the units to ensure a flush appearance after covering the open frames with drywall. The cost for the two additional Pax wardrobes was $1,500, and the wood for the framing amounted to $1,050. To introduce coziness into the room with its nearly 11-foot-high ceilings, Nelson painted the ceiling and the top 16 inches of the walls with Valspar's Black Evergreen. The lower part of the walls was painted in Valspar's Oyster Pearl. Base shoe molding was used to delineate the paint lines, and an extension pole and ladder were utilized for painting. The total paint cost for four gallons was $200. For the IKEA Pax units, which were initially gray, Nelson primed them with Zinsser's 123 Primer before painting them the same color as the walls to ensure a cohesive look. A key design element was the accent wall behind the bed, which featured a unique picture frame molding technique where molding pieces butted against each other, requiring precise 45-degree angle cuts. Nelson used website measurements and pencil guidelines to frame the headboard, attaching the molding with a nail gun and painting it in Oyster Pearl. The final stage of the renovation involved furnishing the room with adult-approved pieces. The most significant individual splurge was a $700 CB2 nightstand. To maintain the budget, other furnishings, including a bistro table and a mirror, were sourced from World Market and Home Depot. The overall project successfully transformed a former childhood space into a grown-up sanctuary, demonstrating effective DIY strategies for achieving a high-end look on a moderate budget. #BedroomRenovation #IKEAHack #DIY #HomeImprovement #InteriorDesign #BudgetFriendly #StorageSolutions #MoldingDetails

The article explores how oversized headboards can transform small bedrooms, creating an illusion of larger, more cohesive, and intentional spaces. Interior designers confirm that extended headboards visually widen the wall and unify the bed with nightstands, offering a bespoke and hotel-inspired aesthetic. This design strategy is not merely a trick of the eye but a practical solution for spatial optimization. One approach involves maximizing function on a single wall by using a headboard that spans its entire width. Designer Hema Persad implemented a custom, wall-to-wall headboard that integrated nightstands, creating a built-in, hotel-like appearance and saving space. This method results in a polished look that makes the room seem larger and more thoughtfully designed. Another benefit of extended headboards is their ability to team the bed and nightstands together. Lauren Haskett, an interior designer, illustrates this by nesting nightstands within the headboard's 'wings,' ensuring the entire setup is integrated rather than appearing as separate furniture pieces. She emphasizes the importance of scale, noting that the headboard must extend beyond the nightstands for the design to work effectively, preventing awkward gaps and ensuring a balanced space. Extended headboards can also contribute to making a room feel cozier. Austin Carrier of Hommeboys describes how a wall-to-wall headboard can transform a bedroom into an ultra-cozy, chic retreat, rich in color and texture. By covering the entire wall behind the bed, this design eliminates visual gaps and unifies the space, adding luxury without overwhelming it. Furthermore, extended headboards can solve tricky layouts. Designer Sarah Montgomery faced the challenge of placing a bed in front of a window in a small bedroom. Her solution was a custom elongated headboard, lower in the center, which maintained window visibility while creating a balanced focal point. Integrated sconces added functionality and polish, diverting attention from the small window and making the room feel more expansive. Montgomery stresses that considering the scale is crucial, as a low headboard in a room with tall ceilings can look disproportionate. Extended headboards also help draw the eye outward, making a room feel more spacious and cohesive. Jessica Davis of Atelier Davis utilized a built-in extended headboard to visually elongate the wall, avoiding the fragmented appearance caused by standard headboards. This design also incorporated a slim ledge for practical items like books or candles, blending aesthetics with functionality. To choose the right extended headboard, measuring the wall, ceiling height, and nightstands is essential to ensure proper proportions. Deciding between a custom-built option with integrated features like lighting or shelves, or a ready-made version (with careful dimension checks), is the next step. The ultimate goal is to select a material and style that harmonizes with the room's overall aesthetic, making the headboard an intentional and transformative design element. #BedroomDesign #InteriorDecorating #SpaceSavingSolutions #HeadboardDesign #SmallBedroomIdeas #HomeDecor #DesignInspiration