Do you find yourself digging for the floss you just used yesterday? As you search, you shuffle things around, disturb other essentials, and feel a growing sense of frustration. Where is it? Then, when you finally do get out the door in the morning (with or without the floss), you’re already irritated and feeling rushed. Not a great way to start the day.

Your bathroom should help you wind down in the evening and start fresh every day. However, even if you have the best intentions of keeping things in order, it can fail at the hands of storage that is ill-equipped to support your organization plan. There’s a better way.

Today, I’m sharing 4 innovative ways to create functional storage in your bathroom design plan. Let’s get organizing!                                                   

Step 1. Determine What Must be Stored

One of the first things I do when I meet with clients in person or virtually for a bathroom (or kitchen) project is to get a peek into their existing cabinets. I want to see what they are storing and how they are storing it before we plan. The best design, organization included, supports the everyday functions you need it for.

We often take photos of the cabinets to refer back to so we know how to make improvements. It's a simple visual tool to help plan for a better layout and better storage.

Step 2. Choose the Right Cabinetry

The goal is to create storage that doesn't overwhelm the room. Minimal but efficient. I recommend both drawers and cabinets for my clients’ bathroom design plans. The key is to design the cabinets to hold ALL your essentials without over cluttering. Everything should be easy to locate and to conveniently grab. Jars, combs, brushes, and other smaller items are best in drawers. In comparison, linens and taller bottles work best in cabinets.

(P.S. Read here for more tips on creating a home that brings out the best in you.)

Step 3. Utilize Valuable Vertical Space 

One of the features I love to add to a basic guest bathroom is upper cabinet storage. We used to utilize this option only in the master bath; however, it has now become more common to add upper storage to guest baths. 

Upper storage is a great place to store hairdryers, water picks, and electric toothbrushes, keeping your counter clear of clutter. It also prevents you from having to bend down to pull out and plug in your hairdryer. How convenient!

You'll also want to have your contractor work in an outlet on the wall behind the cabinet if one doesn't currently exist. Then, the cabinet can be cut onsite to accommodate the receptacle and finished inside the cabinet with a plate cover. Now, you can use and charge devices directly in the cabinet itself. Brilliant!

Step 4. Carefully Consider Storage Finishes

Consider the things that make life a little easier when selecting your cabinet layout. I ask my clients questions to determine which features and finishes are right for them. Questions like: What are the things that irritate you now? What would make that easier? Pullout shelves or drawer dividers? What would help your children safely access their toothbrush, toothpaste, brush, or comb? (Pro Tip: If you have young kids, consider a pullout step stool at the base of the cabinets.)

Then, thoughtfully consider your cabinet hardware. There are so many options, and it may seem like a daunting task. What feels good in your hand and is easy to open smoothly? If you have a wide drawer, I might suggest 2 knobs or 2 drawer pulls. 

Last but not least, know that your bathroom’s organization doesn't have to be an afterthought. Well-planned organization is essential to bringing out the best in you and your family, and when we give proper attention to selecting these details, you will be happier with the results in the end.

If you'd like a professional to help design your new space with storage in mind, consider my Local or Online Design Services! My “Pick My Brain” package is perfect for getting started. I can’t wait to help you design a home that supports your family’s happiest life at home.

Warmly,
Celeste