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When it comes to streamlined, aesthetically pleasing organization ideas, Amber Lewis’s are always high on our inspo list. The interior designer recently partnered with The Container Store Custom Closets to redo her home’s closets, and we took note of pretty much all her space-saving tricks. But it’s the hallway that really caught our attention. “I wanted something very specific for every space,” says Lewis. Her secret for tackling those hardworking, high-traffic areas? “Customize every inch.” Below, we’ve outlined three key takeaways from the designer’s hall closet design that will set you up for storage-system success.
Wrangle Those Misfit Items
Random, oddly shaped accessories like hats and gloves don’t hang neatly, so one organization tactic Lewis utilized was placing a large decorative basket at the base of the closet to house those difficult-to-store necessities. The method makes it easy to throw your things into the closet on your way in, without losing a stray mitten to the depths of your coat pockets.
Keep Calm and Carryall
The common denominator of most homes? An overflow of shopping bags. Stuffed in a drawer or under the sink, they often turn up in places they don’t belong (cue the umpteenth time you are already out of the house before realizing you didn’t bring a tote). Lewis had the smart idea to place a wicker basket on the top shelf of her closet labeled specifically for the bags. That way, when she’s rushing out to the store, all she has to do is reach up.
Take It From the Top
Of course, maximizing layouts is a must when planning out storage, but don’t forget that vertical space is also your friend. Lewis designed shelves to reach the tippy top of her closet, making sure all available space was put to good use—the perfect spot for placing bulkier, less-used, and seasonal items (such as a big suitcase or sports gear) higher up, so you only have to pull out the step ladder once in a while.