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How to Plan Storage in Open-Plan Layouts
Struggling to organize your open-plan space? Here's the key: smart storage solutions that maintain an airy feel while keeping things tidy.
- Blend storage with design: Use wall-mounted units, multifunctional furniture, and built-in islands to save space.
- Define zones: Storage can subtly separate areas like living, dining, and work zones without walls.
- Maximize space: Opt for modular shelving, drawer systems, and hidden storage to make every inch count.
- Stay flexible: Choose mobile carts or adjustable units to adapt as your needs change.
With the right approach, you can keep your open-plan layout functional, clutter-free, and visually cohesive. Let’s dive into the details!
Biggest Open Plan Design Mistakes & Why It May Not Be For ...
Planning Your Open-Plan Storage
Organize your open-plan storage thoughtfully to make the most of your space and ensure everything functions smoothly.
Measuring Space and Traffic Flow
Start by creating an accurate floor plan. Use a laser measure to note critical dimensions and observe how people move through the area. Be sure to record:
- Total area (in square feet or meters)
- Ceiling height for vertical storage possibilities
- Locations of windows, doors, power outlets, and light fixtures
Pay attention to daily traffic patterns and keep high-traffic zones free of obstacles. If you need flexible storage options, check out Luvasmr's mobile storage solutions like kitchen trolleys or utility carts, which can be moved around as needed.
Next, divide your space into zones based on activities to better organize your storage.
Mapping Activity Areas
Using your measurements, break your space into specific zones:
- Kitchen Zone: Areas for food prep, cooking, and cleaning
- Living Zone: Spaces for relaxing and entertaining
- Dining Zone: Table, chairs, and serving areas
- Work Zone: A dedicated workspace, if applicable
Arrange these zones to take advantage of natural light and views. Consider using Luvasmr's wall-mounted shelving units or room dividers to define areas while keeping the space open.
Once the zones are set, focus on the storage needs of each area.
Storage Requirements by Zone
Each zone will have its own storage demands. Here’s how to address them:
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Kitchen Zone Storage:
- Install pull-out shelves for pots and pans
- Use drawer organizers for utensils
- Keep spice racks close to cooking areas
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Living Zone Storage:
- Add wall shelves for books and decorative items
- Opt for coffee tables with built-in storage
- Set up media storage for electronics
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Work Zone Storage:
- Use desk organizers to keep supplies tidy
- Manage cables with organizers
- Mount bins on walls to store documents
Look for storage options that can change as your needs evolve. Luvasmr's modular storage systems are a great choice since they’re easy to adjust over time.
Storage-Based Zone Division
Define open-plan areas with smart storage solutions that keep the space functional and visually connected. Below are practical ways to use freestanding, built-in, and wall-mounted storage to separate and organize your zones.
Room Division with Storage Furniture
Freestanding storage pieces, like Luvasmr's modular shelving units, can act as natural dividers while providing extra storage.
Placement tips:
- Use taller units (around 1.5–1.8 m) to separate living and dining spaces.
- Opt for half-height cabinets (about 0.9–1.2 m) to maintain open sightlines.
- Position storage units perpendicular to walls to guide movement and create clear pathways.
- Maintain at least 0.9 m of clearance around furniture for easy navigation.
For a more flexible option, try Luvasmr's mobile storage carts, which can be moved between the kitchen and dining area as needed.
Custom Built-In Storage
Built-in storage is a great way to permanently define zones while making the most of your space. Consider these ideas:
- Add window seats with built-in drawers for seating and storage.
- Install floor-to-ceiling cabinets along partial walls.
- Use storage peninsulas to separate the kitchen from the living area.
- Create built-in media units with surrounding shelves or cabinets.
Plan for a depth of 61 cm for standard storage and 38–46 cm for shallow shelves. You can also combine Luvasmr's wall-mounted storage systems to create custom layouts.
Wall Storage Solutions
Wall-mounted storage is perfect for saving floor space while defining different zones.
Ideas for wall-mounted options:
- Install floating shelves at various heights for a layered look.
- Use Luvasmr's wall-mounted organizers to keep frequently used items handy.
- Mount cabinets at eye level for easy access.
- Add pegboards or rail systems for versatile storage.
For a balanced look, mix open and closed storage:
- Use upper shelves for decor and display items.
- Reserve eye-level storage for items you access regularly.
- Store seasonal or less-used items in lower cabinets or shelves.
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Hidden Storage Options
Hidden storage ideas take your zonal storage approach a step further, helping to clear clutter in open-plan spaces.
Dual-Purpose Storage Furniture
Turn everyday furniture into clever storage solutions:
- Coffee tables with hidden compartments: Perfect for stashing remotes and magazines. Check out Luvasmr's options.
- Blanket chests: These can double as window seats for extra seating. Explore options here.
- Bedside tables with built-in charging stations: Manage cables while keeping essentials close. Find options here.
Make sure storage compartments have a depth of 30–45 cm to fit your items comfortably.
Storage in Unused Spaces
Transform overlooked areas into practical storage:
- Pull-out shelves: Install these in narrow gaps (at least 15 cm wide) between appliances. Browse pull-out storage options.
- Above-door shelving: Great for storing books or showcasing decorative items.
- Wall-mounted organizers: Mount these behind doors for easy access. Check out Luvasmr's designs.
For tricky corners, Luvasmr's corner storage units are a great way to make the most of the space without losing accessibility.
Under-Stairs and Corner Storage
Under-stairs solutions:
- Drawer units: Install pull-out drawers that slide sideways for hidden storage. See options here.
- Compact office setups: Use the space for a small desk and desk organizers.
- Shoe racks: Add racks in the tallest section to organize footwear. Find them here.
Corner storage ideas:
- Rotating corner organizers: Ideal for kitchen storage. Explore these options.
- Diagonal corner shelves: Install shelving units that fit snugly into corners.
- Corner cabinets: Use adjustable shelving to store various items. Check out Luvasmr's corner cabinets.
These smart storage additions can help you keep your open-plan space tidy and functional.
Preserving Spaciousness
Storage Design Selection
Choose storage solutions that work well with an open-plan layout while keeping the space uncluttered:
- Wall-mounted units: Opt for designs like Luvasmr's wall storage collection to free up floor space while maintaining functionality.
- Floating shelves: Space them strategically to keep the room open and ensure displayed items remain distinct.
- Low-profile storage: Go for streamlined units that align with wall height, preserving an airy atmosphere.
Striking the right balance between visible and hidden storage is key to keeping the space open and organized.
Mix of Open and Closed Storage
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Open Storage
- Adjustable open shelving (such as Luvasmr's shelving units) is great for displaying select items.
- Add visual interest by varying shelf heights without creating clutter.
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Closed Storage
- Sleek cabinets like Luvasmr's drawer storage units are perfect for keeping essentials out of sight.
- Integrated storage solutions ensure clean, uninterrupted lines.
The right mix of open and closed storage keeps the space functional without sacrificing the open feel.
Space-Enhancing Storage Finishes
Materials that brighten the space:
- Glass-fronted cabinets add depth and reflect light.
- High-gloss finishes help distribute light across the room.
- Mirrored cabinet doors are effective for bouncing light.
Color choices to amplify light:
- Match storage units to wall colors for a cohesive look.
- Use light neutrals like white, cream, or pale gray.
- Explore Luvasmr's minimalist storage solutions for versatile finishes.
Place larger storage pieces against walls rather than using them as dividers to maintain clear sightlines in your open-plan design. This approach ensures the room feels spacious and connected.
Storage Organization Methods
Reducing Stored Items
Start your open-plan storage strategy by focusing on keeping only the essentials. Go through your items every three months to declutter and remove anything unnecessary. This regular habit ensures your space stays organized and ready for adjustments when needed.
Rotating Seasonal Items
Once you've decluttered, take it a step further by rotating seasonal items every quarter. This approach keeps your space tidy and ensures your storage aligns with your needs as they change throughout the year.
These simple practices help keep your belongings organized and maintain a clean, open-plan space while working alongside the storage solutions mentioned earlier.
Conclusion: Implementing Your Storage Plan
To make the most of your open-plan space, focus on using storage solutions that keep the area open and functional without feeling overcrowded.
Choose multi-functional storage pieces that work well in different areas - like the entryway, living room, kitchen, or workspace. These can help define separate zones while keeping the overall space tidy and cohesive. The goal is to create distinct areas without losing the openness that makes open-plan spaces so appealing.
Keep your layout organized by using storage tools designed for specific zones. This way, every area stays neat and practical while still fitting into the overall design. A well-thought-out storage plan will seamlessly blend storage into your open-plan space.
Stick to the core principles discussed earlier - smart zoning, reducing clutter, and thoughtful storage choices. By doing so, you'll maintain a layout that's both functional and welcoming.
Luvasmr makes it easier to find the right storage options with free shipping on orders over £50 and a 30-day return policy.