Renovate or Refresh?
When a space doesn’t function well for you, it causes frustration (right?!?) and we experience that frustration EVERY TIME we are in that space … again, and again, and again. We sometimes think “I just need to start from scratch!” and start checking our bank account and looking for contractors to start a renovation. Renovations do offer the opportunity to rethink a space with less limits and boundaries … but they are also expensive, time consuming, and inconvenient. I recently had a client reach out to me that was in this situation, but instead of jumping into a renovation she asked for help to see how an organizational refresh might be able to improve the function of her space first. (Read more about this project here.)
When you live in a space for awhile, you create habits about how you store your belongings. Sometimes, there wasn’t much forethought into the storage spaces from the beginning (unpacking from a move may have involved shoving things behind the closest closed door, right?), but we keep things where they ended up because that sometimes seems easiest. Even with forethought to our storage spaces, over time our storage needs may change yet we don’t always put the effort into adjusting the space to meet new needs. If this sounds familiar, you may be due for a refresh of your storage spaces.
If you want to try a refresh, here are a few steps to follow.
Assess Functionality.
Think about how you use this space currently. Take note of what is and is not working for you here and let that be your guide for space planning.
Assess the Space Objectively.
The best way to do this is to take everything out of the space. I know … this is where the process becomes a project, so make sure you set aside some time. Removing our belongings helps us see our space with fresh eyes so we can more freely imagine a new plan.
Assess the Items to be Stored Objectively.
We often forget what we stored unless we use it on a regular basis. Sort like items into categories, toss items that are no longer needed (or items that have multiplied beyond reason), THEN take note of how much storage space you might need.
Assess Organizational Product Needs Thoughtfully.
This is where many of us start our organizing projects only to find ourselves with $$$ receipts and products that may or may not improve the function of the space. Be selective in the products you purchase, making sure they solve problems, are as sturdy as you need them to be, and are interchangeable so you can adjust your spaces over time.
