It wasn’t too long ago that the big dream was for a big, grand home with plenty of space to stretch out. But things are changing fast. People are more environmentally minded. They want something low maintenance. The cost of houses and living is high. All of this means that demand for small homes and apartment living is higher than ever. The only problem with that is that it’s all too easy to run out of space for our stuff. What’s the answer? Smart apartment storage ideas, of course!

Here are some storage ideas for apartments that can also be used in any situation where space is at a premium.

1. Vertical storage for apartment living

A tight space can quickly become cluttered if you try to have everything within easy arm’s reach. Extending cupboards and shelves to the ceiling can make a huge difference. By storing things you need less often in these new spaces there’s really no inconvenience at all. Use it for cooking supplies, kids toys, extra linen, books (which look amazing when stacked from the ceiling to the floor) and the like.

We can’t mention going high without going low, especially when low storage can actually be easily reached with a little bend of the back.

There are places to convert into low storage that you’ve probably never considered. Those kitchen kick-boards, for instance, can quite easily become nooks or extra drawers, and the cupboards under the sink are all too often an under-utilised storage ‘dead zone’. Take another look at furniture – are there storage havens under your bed or coffee table?

2. Under Bed Storage

Under-bed storage containers are a great way to utilise the space under your bed for storage. These containers come in a variety of sizes and styles, and can be used to store out-of-season clothing, linens, and other household items. They’re especially useful for items that you don’t need to access very often, as they can be tucked away under the bed and out of sight.

3. Hanging Organisers

Hanging organisers or over-the-door organisers are a convenient way to store shoes, bags, and other accessories. These organisers typically feature pockets or hooks that allow you to hang items, keeping them off the floor and out of the way. They’re a great option for small apartments where space is at a premium.

4. Fold Out Couches

Folding beds or futons can be a great way to create extra storage space in an apartment. When not in use, these beds can be folded up and stored against a wall or in a closet, freeing up valuable floor space. They’re a good option for guest rooms or for apartments where you need to be able to convert a room into a home office or guest room on demand.

5. Storage Chests

A storage bench or chest can be a great addition to an apartment, providing a place to store items in the entryway or at the foot of the bed. These pieces of furniture typically have a lift-up lid or drawers, providing a convenient place to store items like blankets, pillows, or other household items. They can also provide extra seating when needed.

6. Retractable Items

Consider items that can be folded or retracted when not in use. This includes retractable drying racks, fold-down desks, or pull-out ironing boards. They make the space versatile without causing permanent obstruction.

7. Corner Shelves

Corners often remain underutilised in apartments. By installing corner shelves, you can make the most of these spaces, which are perfect for books, decorative items, or even small indoor plants.

More smart storage ideas for apartment living

Those with tight spaces to play with sometimes come up with the most amazing and innovative storage ideas for apartment living.

Among the coolest solutions are:

• Innovative furniture that multi-tasks for storage.
• Hanging baskets suspended over a kitchen island bench.
• Recessed shelves that take advantage of wall cavity space.
• Peg boards for kitchen utensils
• Baskets that hook under existing shelves

Self storage for apartment living

Finally, many people think absolutely running out of space and reverting to a self storage solution is a last resort – but it shouldn’t be seen that way at all.

For instance, Jim’s Self Storage Williamstown has a range of storage unit sizes, and a small unit is extremely affordable and can therefore be regarded as a flexible extension of your day-to-day apartment storage.

Thinking outside the box and sharing a unit with a neighbour or friend is also an option, especially for those things that you really won’t miss all throughout the year. We’re talking seasonal storage of things like Christmas decorations, beach toys and winter clothing.

By keeping an open mind to clever apartment storage ideas and not seeing self storage as a last resort, you can reap the benefits of the growing popularity of living comfortably in smaller spaces. With competitive storage unit pricing, it can be an affordable way to declutter apartment living. Remember, when we’re storing stuff, it can be very easy to get stuck in the usual ‘horizontal storage’ mindset. But the most efficient apartment storage ideas are often not horizontal, but vertical.