The Sentinel: Home Remodeling

Affordable storage ideas for small apartments, clever hacks to make more space

Photo: Michal Jarmoluk/Pixabay

SNS - Living in a small apartment or home can be challenging, especially when it comes storage space. However, you can maximize your space affordably with creativity and clever solutions. Here are some affordable storage hacks tailored for every room in your home, helping you declutter and organize efficiently with style.

The Benefits of Decluttering

Another crucial aspect of maximizing space in small apartments is decluttering. Regularly assess your belongings and determine what you truly need. That can be a liberating process that frees up physical space and creates a more peaceful living environment. Consider implementing the "one in, one out" rule: for every new item you bring into your home, remove an old one. This practice helps maintain order and prevents accumulation. Additionally, donating items you no longer use can benefit others in your community while satisfying you with a clean, organized apartment. By embracing a minimalist mindset, you can simplify your living space and make it more enjoyable.

Living Room Affordable Storage Hacks

The living room is often the heart of the home, but it can also become a clutter magnet. One effective way to create more storage is by using multi-functional furniture. Consider investing in a coffee table that doubles as a storage unit or an ottoman with hidden compartments. These pieces serve a purpose and help keep your space tidy. Wall-mounted shelves are another great option for the living room. They can display books and decorative items while freeing up floor space. Additionally, consider using decorative baskets or bins to store remote controls, magazines, and other small items. That keeps your living room organized and visually appealing.

Kitchen Storage Hacks

Kitchens in small apartments can feel cramped, but there are plenty of affordable storage hacks to make your small kitchen more functional. Start by utilizing vertical space with wall-mounted racks for pots and pans. That saves cabinet space and adds a rustic charm to your kitchen. Use drawer organizers to keep utensils and kitchen tools tidy. Consider installing a magnetic strip for knives to free up drawer space and enhance safety. Additionally, clear bins in your pantry can help group similar items, making it easier to find what you need.

Maximize your living space in small apartments by using under-bed storage options. Buy a ready made solution or create your own.

Photo: StockSnap/Pixabay

Small Bedroom Storage Hacks

Maximizing space is essential to creating a serene environment when organizing a small bedroom. Begin with under-bed storage solutions. Use rolling bins or vacuum-sealed bags to store off-season clothing, shoes, or extra bedding. That is a perfect way to keep your bedroom uncluttered. At the same time, invest in furniture with built-in storage, like a bed frame with drawers or a bench with a hidden compartment. Also, consider using hanging organizers on the back of your closet door for accessories or shoes, making everything easy to find while keeping your closet neat.

Bathroom Storage Hacks

Bathrooms can quickly become overcrowded, but there are many ways to organize this small space. Use tiered shelves or corner caddies to maximize vertical space. These can hold toiletries, towels, or cleaning supplies without wasting valuable floor space. Over-the-toilet shelving is another clever storage hack. This area is often underutilized, so adding shelves can create extra storage for towels and decorative items. Use baskets or bins under the sink to group similar items, keeping your bathroom organized and functional. These storage ideas allow you to turn your small bathroom into a spa.

Creative storage solutions can make a small home office seem more spacious.

Photo: Michael Burrows/PEXELS

Office Area Storage Hacks

Creating a productive home office in a small apartment can be challenging, but effective storage solutions can help. Use vertical file organizers to keep important documents in order while freeing up desk space. Wall-mounted shelves can also display books, plants, or office supplies. Consider a desk with built-in drawers for additional storage, keeping your workspace clutter-free. Utilize a pegboard to hang tools or supplies, allowing easy access and organization. These hacks can transform your home office into a functional and inspiring workspace.

Dining Area Storage Hacks

Maximizing space is key in small dining areas. Look for a dining table with built-in storage or a foldable option that can be tucked away when unused. Use wall-mounted shelves to display dishes or decorative items, keeping the table clear. Consider adding a rolling cart for extra storage and serving space. They can be easily moved and hold everything from utensils to beverages. Decorative baskets can also serve as stylish storage for items like napkins or tablecloths, keeping your dining area organized.

Seasonal Storage Solutions

Managing seasonal items can be challenging in a small apartment. To tackle this, consider implementing a seasonal storage solution. Use vacuum-sealed bags to compress off-season clothing, blankets, or holiday decorations, allowing you to store them compactly. Designate a specific area for seasonal items, whether a closet or storage bin and switch items out as the seasons change. That keeps your apartment organized and makes it easier to access items when needed.

Consider Renting Storage Units

For those needing additional space, renting a storage unit can be affordable. Many facilities offer various sizes of units, allowing you to choose one that fits your needs and budget. Renting a storage unit can be especially beneficial for keeping seasonal items, sports equipment, or furniture you don’t use daily. While costs vary based on location and unit size, many storage facilities offer promotions or discounts for long-term rentals, making it a cost-effective option. Additionally, having a separate storage space can help reduce clutter in your apartment, leading to a more organized living environment.

Affordable Storage Hacks for Small Apartments

Living in a small apartment doesn’t mean sacrificing organization or style. With these affordable storage hacks for every room in your home, you can maximize your space and create a comfortable, clutter-free environment. From utilizing vertical space to investing in multi-functional furniture, plenty of strategies exist to make the most of your home. By implementing these ideas, you’ll find that your small apartment can be stylish and practical, proving that great things come in small packages.

Keywords: Affordable storage Hacks, Creative home storage space idea, Apartment storage ideas, Storage ideas for college students

Make a small or your second kitchen more functional

StatePoint Media - Whether you live in tight quarters or like many Americans, have a smaller, secondary kitchen in your home, there are strategies for making the most of compact cooking areas, none of which involve compromising style or functionality.

Photo provided

Use Smart Storage

Sneak in extra storage in unexpected places without contributing to kitchen clutter. Install pull-out cabinets. Use an over-the-sink dish drying rack. Mount a magnetic knife sheaf to your backsplash. Use a rolling storage cart that can be moved out of the way when needed, being sure to opt for one with a wooden top to boost your counter real estate. All these solutions will help free up more of your workspace, ensuring you have plenty of room to chop, mix and stir.

Go Multifunctional

Top-notch appliances don’t need to be huge to provide professional-style performance. It’s all about finding models that offer multifunctionality, such as the 30-inch Dolcevita Dual Fuel Range by the Italian brand, Lofra Appliances. A great example of a luxury range uniquely engineered to fit a smaller space, unlike other compact appliances of its size, this one ensures that you can get the aesthetics, powerful BTU output and oven capacity that larger ranges offer. Its convection oven offers nine programmable cooking functions so that you can defrost, grill and bake like a pro, no matter the size of your kitchen.

Get Creative

It’s a good idea to get a bit creative about where appliances will actually fit in your compact kitchen. For example, the 30-inch Wall Oven from Verona is only 24 inches tall, making it the perfect height for an under-the-counter installation. Pair it with a Verona 12-inch, 24-inch or 30-inch cooktop, which have minimal undercounter depth, for a great combination when space is limited.

If you need a second oven, Verona packs two multifunction ovens into one 36-inch range. Both ovens feature optimal amounts of space so you can fit anything from weekday dinners to the Thanksgiving turkey and all of the side dishes to go with it.

Both Verona and Lofra are exclusively imported by EuroChef USA. For more information, visit eurochefusa.com.

Build Upward

Don’t forget to think about your kitchen from a vertical perspective, too. This can help you maximize every square inch of the room. Add hooks to the upper areas of your walls, or even hang items from the ceiling. Put seasonal tools and ingredients up on the highest shelves and rotate them as needed. A small, foldable stepstool takes up almost no storage space but can help you reach those seldom-used items when it’s time.

A cozy kitchen is no cause for distress. Whether it’s throwing an elaborate dinner party or cooking for a busy family, you can get a lot done in your smaller kitchen with wise appliance choices and creative storage solutions.

How to implement mixed metals in your next home renovation project

Photo provided

BPT - Design is a major component for any home renovation. Introducing mixed metals into the kitchen and bath is one of the latest design trends that should be considered when thinking through that next project. The eclectic aesthetic behind the mixed metal trend is popular across the design world and it only takes a few different types of materials, finishes and personality to get the job done. See below for ideas and easy ways to bring it all together, all while keeping budget in mind.

Where to look for inspiration

No matter the interior style you're trying to go for, getting inspired by the world around you or getting acquainted with what's trending in the interior decor space (via home/lifestyle magazines or vlogs) are good places to start.

Maris Park Borris, Color Material & Finish (CMF) designer at Delta Faucet Company, says inspiration can strike from a variety of ways and reminds homeowners, "Regardless of style or design intent, I think we can all find inspiration from different times or places in our lives. From your past, present or future, to online or even nature sources. People pick up on things that are meaningful to them!" Park Borris says.

By reading up and taking inspiration from others and trends happening within the design space, you'll start to notice general themes that are frequently incorporated, including the mixed metal trend. A little dedication and creativity are all that's needed. To start, pick two or three contrasting metals with different tones to implement character and depth into the space, while selecting one of those as the cohesive thread across all. This will not only keep guests' eyes entertained, but it'll also give you the opportunity to introduce different textures and finishes for an elevated look.

That's so metal

Mixing metals is a simple way to give spaces a unique touch. Metals like steel and copper offer a shinier, flashy aesthetic in the home while chromes and nickels give off a more polished, sophisticated look. Once the most prominent metal is identified for the space, complement it with either warmer metals like brass, gold and nickel or cooler ones like chrome and silver. Keep in mind that metal choices and combinations are all just a matter of the homeowner's taste and preference in the end.

Pro tip - avoid using metals that look too much like one another so that the result doesn't look like a mistaken matching effort. Spaces and journeys within the home are also important to consider. Keep an eye on how one finish can mix and translate to the next room. This will create new experiences and an enjoyable walkthrough for your guests.

Complement metals via beautiful, affordable fixtures

When renovating kitchen and bath spaces with the mixed metal look in mind, selecting beautifully designed fixtures is a simple start to get the trend in motion. This year, Peerless® Faucet launched its all-new Ezra™ Kitchen and Bath Collections - all with an array of unique finish options to choose from. Designed with sharp lines, soft curves and functional features, these collections deliver long-lasting performance while uplifting any space.

In the kitchen, the Ezra Collection is available in Chrome, Stainless Steel and Matte Black finishes - all can be easily paired with everyday decorative pieces one may already have on-hand. For example, try accessorizing around the faucet with soap dispensers, cabinetry handles, lifestyle pieces or even other appliances - pairing the finish with a contrasting metal.

"You don't have to spend a lot of money to achieve the mixed metal look," said Borris. "Identify where metal is already being used in your home. It's shocking to find that many decor pieces in one's home already come with a metallic finish that can be accessorized. There are endless inexpensive ways to bring some different hued metals into the home!"

Apply it to your space

Mixing metals into a home renovation project is sure to turn heads. Think through design plans, brainstorm metal selections and put it all together - it's as simple as that! With endless finishes, accessories and combinations, one's imagination is the limit when it comes to beautifying a space. Remember, there are only a few key notes to keep top of mind when implementing this trend:

Remember to pick two or more metals that are distinct from one another - perhaps picking one with a cooler tone and one that is warmer.
Designate one metal for more prominent use and use the others as accents.
Leverage fixtures and products that automatically provide a specific tonal look to complement the space.

Here's our notes, 6 things to look for when renting a storage unit

Photo: Adam Winger/Unsplash

SNS - Knowing what to prioritize can make all the difference if you want to find the perfect storage facility. So, let’s review the six things to look out for when renting a storage facility. From location and security to cleanliness and cost, understanding these key elements will help you find the right storage solution for your needs.

Picking out the most ideal location
One of the main things to look out for when renting a storage facility is its location. It's not just a matter of convenience because it also affects its practicality and ease of access. Imagine needing to retrieve something from storage urgently. If your chosen facility is just around the corner from your home or workplace, the task becomes a simple errand rather than a time-consuming journey.

Consider the alternative scenario: a storage unit located miles away from your usual routes. Every visit becomes a logistical challenge, requiring extra time and effort. Long drives waste precious time and add up fuel costs, too.

Furthermore, proximity to your location means managing your stored items becomes much more convenient. Whether you need to swap out seasonal items, retrieve something for immediate use, or simply check in on your belongings, having a storage facility nearby makes these tasks quick and easy. It's like having an extension of your home just a stone's throw away. This way, due to close proximity, you’ll benefit from your chosen storage facility as much as you would from having a freestanding storage unit on your property.

Security measures
You should pay attention to security when selecting a storage facility. After all, if you’re renovating your home and want to properly store valuables away from all the chaos or just need some extra space for valuables, reliable security is a must.

Photo: Pawel Czerwinski/Unsplash

When considering security measures, look for facilities equipped with advanced systems. Surveillance cameras, both indoors and outdoors, provide round-the-clock monitoring. This visual deterrent can discourage potential intruders and guarantee your belongings are under constant surveillance.

Gated access adds an extra layer of security, restricting entry to authorized individuals only. With access codes or key cards, you can control who enters the facility, minimizing the risk of unauthorized access. This feature offers peace of mind, knowing only trusted individuals can access your stored items.

Then, on-site security personnel provide a physical presence, further enhancing security measures. Trained professionals can respond swiftly to any security threats or emergencies, maintaining the safety of your belongings. Their presence adds an extra level of protection, especially during non-business hours.

Lastly, consider facilities that offer individual unit alarms. These alarms are triggered by unauthorized entry attempts, alerting facility staff and authorities to potential security breaches.

Climate control
Climate control is a major factor to consider when selecting a storage facility. It's about keeping your belongings safe and preserving their condition over time. Whether you're storing electronics, documents, or furniture, maintaining stable conditions helps prevent damage.

After all, extreme temperatures can wreak havoc on stored items. Fluctuations in temperature and humidity can also lead to mold growth, warping of wood, and deterioration of sensitive materials. By opting for a storage facility with climate control, you can mitigate these risks and improve the longevity of your belongings.

Furthermore, climate-controlled units maintain consistent temperature and humidity levels throughout the year. That helps protect your items from the damaging effects of weather extremes, whether scorching summers or freezing winters. With stable conditions, you can rest assured that your stored belongings are safe from environmental harm.

Cleanliness is the first thing you should look for when looking for a storage unit. It reflects the level of professionalism and maintenance you can expect from the company.

Photo: Joshua Coleman/Unsplash

Cleanliness and maintenance
A clean and well-maintained storage unit both maintains the safety of your belongings and reflects the level of care and professionalism the facility management provides. After all, cleanliness is the first thing you notice when you visit. From the moment you step onto the premises, you should feel reassured by the tidiness and orderliness of the surroundings. A clean facility indicates attention to detail and a commitment to providing a safe and hygienic environment for storing your belongings.

So, first look for signs of cleanliness in common areas such as hallways, elevators, and storage units. A well-maintained facility will be free of debris, dust, and clutter, indicating regular cleaning and upkeep by the staff. Beyond cleanliness, maintenance is another important aspect to consider. A well-maintained facility is less likely to experience leaks, pest infestations, or structural damage. Regular maintenance checks also show that the facility remains in optimal condition, minimizing the risk of damage to your stored items.

Cost and fees
Cost is always a major factor when selecting a storage facility, no matter what. After all, understanding the various fees involved helps you make a better decision. Therefore, before committing to a storage unit, you must understand its full cost breakdown. For example, in addition to the monthly rent, there may be additional fees such as security deposits, administrative fees, or insurance charges.

Comparing prices across different facilities can also help you find the best value for your budget. Also, take note of any promotional offers or discounts that may be available, as these can significantly reduce your overall expenses. Furthermore, when evaluating costs, be sure to factor in the storage unit size you need. Larger units typically come with higher rental fees, so choosing a size that accommodates your belongings without exceeding your budget is important.

Keep in mind that costs may vary depending on factors such as location, amenities, and facility reputation. While it may be tempting to opt for the cheapest option, it's necessary to consider the overall quality and security offered by the facility.

Lastly, you need to consider other potential costs you might need to incur, such as packing and transporting your belongings into storage. Here, allseasonmovers.com is a great option. This moving company offers moving, packing, and storage services in the Tri-State Area. And they even have extensive experience with tricky pieces like pianos or similar. Thus, they can create a comprehensive and personalized offer for you.

Customer reviews and reputation
Customer reviews and reputation play a big role in the decision-making process when selecting a storage facility. Hearing from others who have used the service can provide valuable insights and help you make an informed choice. Take the time to inform yourself about your area's best service providers.

Check online reviews for customer service, security and cleanliness for a remote storage facility.

Photo: Liza Summer/PEXELS

Platforms like Google, Yelp, and Facebook are excellent resources for gathering feedback from past and current customers. Pay attention to positive and negative reviews to get a balanced perspective on the facility. Look for common themes or recurring issues mentioned in multiple reviews. In addition to online reviews, consider asking friends, family, or colleagues for recommendations. Personal referrals can provide trusted insights and help you narrow down your options.

From there, consider factors such as customer service, cleanliness, and security when evaluating a storage facility's reputation. A facility with a strong reputation for excellence in these areas will likely provide a positive experience for you.

Keep in mind that while online reviews are valuable, they should be considered alongside other factors such as location, cost, and amenities. As such, trust your instincts and choose a facility that aligns with your needs and priorities.

Making the most of the six things to look out for when renting a storage facility
As you search, keep in mind the six things to look out for when renting a storage facility. Everything from location to costs is important. By prioritizing these factors, you can get the best possible storage experience.

Don't have a standby generator yet? Here are 6 things you will want to know before you buy

Brandpoint - Every day on the news, it seems, there's a report about another extreme weather event. According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), 2023 was a record year for extreme weather. The U.S. experienced 28 separate, billion-dollar weather disasters last year, the highest number ever. That averages out to more than one every two weeks.

Last week, the NWS Storm Prediction Center issued a warning that severe storms capable of damaging winds, large hail, and tornadoes are on tap for tomorrow. The affected area stretches from the Ozarks into the Lower Great Lakes.

Widespread power outages, like this one expected to roll through central Illinois on Tuesday evening, are one of the byproducts of these mega-storms, but it doesn't take a once-in-a-century flood to cause them. Blackouts happen regularly due to more "mundane" causes, like power grid glitches, ice storms or high winds, even lightning in a garden-variety thunderstorm taking out a power pole. And you're left in the dark. Depending on the severity of the outage, that darkness could last awhile.

Remember that storm that produced nearly 80mph windspeeds passed through the area last June? In its wake, the storm left over 28,000 homes without power in Champaign County and more 170,000 homes in Ameren's service area.

A branch from a large tree was peeled away from the trunk by strong winds last June near a condo at the corner Broadway and Vermont in Urbana.

Sentinel photo

When the power goes out in your home, so does the heat. And the internet. And the electricity needed to keep food at a safe temperature in the refrigerator. All of your "smart" electronics and appliances that talk to each other (and to you) go silent.

Owning a standby generator is the best way to keep your household humming during a power outage. Because of all of the extreme weather we've been experiencing, it's moving from the nice-to-have category into a necessity. Here's what you need to know before buying one.

A standby generator is different than a portable generator. Most people are familiar with the type of bulky generators their fathers kept in the garage, noisy contraptions that needed to be hooked up to cough to life when the power went out. You could run the refrigerator or a space heater, but not both. We've come a long way since then. A standby generator is a back-up electrical system that kicks in automatically when the power goes out. These sleek, permanently installed units are a bit like having a power plant on reserve. Some models are able to power the electricity to your entire home. The switchover from the power grid to your generator is completely automatic and usually so seamless, homeowners don't even notice a disruption.

You must own your home to install a standby generator. Standby generators are permanently installed outside of your home — just like an AC unit or solar panel system — and routed to your home’s electrical and gas systems. For this reason, you must own the property your generator will power.

The type of home matters. A condo or apartment, even if you own it, isn't conducive to having a generator. If you live in a townhome complex, consult your community’s by-laws before purchasing a generator. Typically, single-family and fixed mobile homes are qualified for generator installation.

Research any necessary permits before you install. Typically, your generator will be installed alongside your home’s exterior in a discrete area, but it is still considered a modification to your home’s appearance. This means you’ll likely require approval, and perhaps permits, prior to installation if you live in a community regulated by an HOA or other governing board.

Consider your home's power needs ... and your own. Do you want to power your entire home during an outage, or can you get by with only select appliances or systems running? Analyze your home’s electrical load and your power priorities. This will help you determine potential generator models to choose from. Some are equipped to power your entire home, while others are better for powering the necessities.

Not all generators are created equal. You can find any number of generators on the market today with just a few mouse clicks online. But this is your family's safety and well-being in a potential disaster we're talking about. It's not the time to take chances on an untested product or company. Go with a trusted name in the industry you can count on to keep your household running. KOHLER generators have been on the market for over 100 years and each model has endured hundreds of performance tests to ensure total reliability. They're built with commercial-grade engines designed to outlast the outage. And they use state-of-the-art technology so you can monitor it on your mobile device or computer.

Photo provided

In addition to providing dependable electrical service in an emergency, standby generators increase the intrinsic value of the home and property on the real estate market.

When a power outage strikes, a standby generator ensures that your family won't miss a beat. Want to learn more? Visit KOHLERhomeenergy.com for more information.

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