Whether you live in a family home or a small apartment, where to keep your precious belongings can often be an issue.
When visiting properties you are considering renting have a good look to see how much storage they offer.
Both furnished and unfurnished homes may come with built-in storage and useful spaces under stairs, in eaves or within garages or outbuildings.
You may also wish to consider where to accommodate free-standing storage solutions – measure up for bookcases, chests of drawers and wardrobes.
Think about whether you intend to choose eye-catching pieces to make a statement while also displaying your items.
Or if selecting beautiful boxes, chic cupboards or even more basic yet practical containers in which to tuck your clutter out of sight is the answer.
Furniture, such as sofas, beds and tables, can also double up as storage by encompassing drawers and recesses.
Anna Howell, interiors editor at Chaplins Furniture, says: “It starts with a frank conversation. Decide whether the items that need storing are treasures that can be showcased or would be better off hidden away.
“If it’s the former, you’ll want a modular bookcase that you can customise to your precise requirements. Bonaldo’s Cabinet de Curiosité is a gorgeous option for those with books, trinkets and photos in need of a home.
“If your storage requirements are on the larger slide, the best solution is a set of bespoke wardrobes: these can be fitted precisely to your size and space, regardless of sloping ceilings, unusual alcoves or uneven floors.”
She adds: “Hidden internal chambers and smart clothes racks can then be added as necessary taking into account your exact requirements.”
Product Details:
Argos, www.argos.co.uk: Hereford storage bench, £169.99
Cuckooland, www.cuckooland.com: Gyan bespoke wall storage unit, £265
Chaplins, www.chaplins.co.uk: Bonaldo Cabinet de Curiosité, £3,180
Chaplins, www.chaplins.co.uk: Cattelan Italia Arabesque sideboard, £3505
John Lewis, www.johnlewis.com: Storage coffee table, £199
