%20copy.jpg-ZYii59Y)## Kill Two Birds with One Stone
Instead of stashing away items you don’t often use into unsightly plastic bins, try letting your storage double as chic décor. Invest in pieces that aren’t just functional, but could steal the show all on their own. For instance, shell out on that beautiful armoire or credenza you’ve been eyeing, and actually use it to show off your prettiest knick-knacks or china. Or, if your belongings aren’t quite “show worthy,” pick up some stylish lidded baskets and bins that will keep your items organized while contributing to the aesthetic of your design, instead of detracting from it. This also creates the opportunity to get creative with your storage—store throw blankets or bath towels on a decorative ladder, or add trays, boxes, and bowls to your shelving unit to make it more functional.
## Love It, Need It, or Leave It
When it comes to sorting through your belongings, only keep it if you absolutely love it or need it. If it’s just so-so or you don’t get regular use out of it, then ditch it. After all, it all comes down to the fact that the less you actually have, the less you have to organize… makes sense, right? If you want to go one step further, follow the “one in, one out” rule. Picked up a new sweater or pair of shoes? Make sure you give at least one away immediately after, so that you’re not accumulating clutter.
## Treat Every Storage Space Like a Room
Instead of thinking of your bedroom or hall closets like a place to “hide” your mess, treat them like a room of their own. Whether they’re pint-sized or a grand walk-in, take the time to furnish them with thoughtful details like a beautiful light fixture, chic wallpaper, and stylish shelving. The more care you put into the space itself, the less likely you are to treat it like a place to simply dump your clutter.
## Compartmentalize Your Home
As a rule of thumb, keep your items stowed away or displayed in the area where they will actually be used. You’re much more likely to stay organized if you can easily access whatever you need when you need it. If you have to walk across the house or even just into another room to put something away, you’re much less likely to stay organized, so keep storage close for quick and easy stow-away.
## Don’t Underestimate Your Entryway
Whether your entry is a mudroom, the back door by your garage, or a well-styled front entry, make sure you have a place for everything as soon as you walk in the door. Get a chic tray or bowl for keys and sunnies, a basket or shelf for shoes, and wall hooks for jackets or purses. This way, your clutter isn’t even making it into the next room, and you are setting the intention to stay organized throughout the rest of the house.
## Shop Chic Storage…
1. Easton Chest, Large, $3,575 | 2. Teak Ladder, $348 | 3. Riviera Rolling Storage, $198-$248 | 4. Striped La Jolla Baskets, $78-$168 | 5. Cabot Shelf, $1,498 | 6. Kate Spade Storage Box Set, $54 | 7. The Amalfi Coast Tray, $295 | 8. Elton Storage Ottoman, Banana Palm, $210 | 9. Keaton Jewelry Box, $40 | 10. Wickford Tall and Large Canister, $75 each | 11. Wire Catchall Basket, $50
**What tips would you add to this list? Are these tricks motivating you to get organized?**
We don’t know about you, but we’re actually looking forward to tackling our space and getting organized this week. How could you not with chic storage pieces like these…
Happy spring cleaning!
Xx Team GM
Photos: 1. Emily Ley, 2. Local + Lejos, 3. & 4. Sophie Elkus