Whether you call it downsizing or rightsizing, the bottom line is you’re moving into a smaller space and have no idea what to do with all the stuff you’ve collected over the years. Many people consider moving from a larger home to a smaller home at some point in their lives. After the childrearing years, this move is often made when homeowners no longer need the extra bedrooms or living space and want less home to worry about (or to clean!). The problem is that they have accumulated items to fill the space that they aren’t ready to part with, yet all their stuff won’t fit in a smaller home.
If you’re considering this type of downsizing, begin by sorting your possessions into three piles: keep, donate, trash. After trashing, donating, and storing what you can, here are some creative ways to store your stuff in the new, smaller space.
• Dual-Purpose Furniture – Find furniture that offers hidden storage, such as a coffee table or ottoman with storage compartments for extra pillows, throw blankets, games, or books.
• Baskets and Cubes – There are many great options for cube storage units that incorporate baskets to store extra items for easy access when needed.
• Digitize – This is the perfect time to put your important papers and pictures into a digital format. Some companies specialize in transferring your items for later access, from treasured photos to tax forms.
• Repurpose – Take a careful look at your furniture…and Pinterest. You’ll find great ways to use some of your favorite pieces in different and useful ways.
• Closets – Consider a closet consultation to make sure you maximize your closet space, not only in the bedrooms but also in your kitchen pantry and hall coat closet. Downsizing doesn’t mean you have to throw out everything you love. Take a hard look at what matters, and then use some of these tricks to store the items you treasure without adding clutter to your new home.