Ask any condo dweller (myself included) about the downsides of condo-living and the biggest gripe is usually concerning the lack of storage. Our loft-style condo came equipped with a tiny entry closet, a closet that holds a stacked washer/dryer and a decently-sized bedroom closet.
Our first effort was adding custom closet organizers, but realistically we needed some additional practical solutions for our small space. Most of our savings had gone towards the down payment, so we needed to choose a mix of high quality pieces that we adore and that have longevity (like the sectional from Gus Modern, and the Herman Miller desk chair) with some inexpensive but highly functional pieces.
Helmer drawer unit on casters $49.99
Where else but Ikea? We managed to find some budget-friendly items that blend in seamlessly with the rest of our furniture and make a huge impact on storage without sacrificing on style.
The loft doesn’t have an office, so I claimed a little corner suitable for a small desk and chair. The desk and mirror were floor model sales items from higher-end furniture stores, and the chair was a custom order from Herman Miller (via Gabriel Ross). Our dollar was definitely stretched, so when looking for something to hold office supplies, I found this space- and budget-saving solution.
Ikea PS Cabinet $149.00 each
Sharing your space with a 30-something man inevitably means finding a way to deal with cables, video game consoles and DVDs. It was also important to make sure that whatever television stand we selected would be able to hold its own beneath the behemoth which is our TV. These steel cabinets fit the bill perfectly, plus they tied in nicely with the drawer unit above. Perfect solution, plus it is lockable, sturdy and has cord outlets at the bottom.
Besta Storage System, Various Prices
The wall adjacent to our kitchen is the largest in our condo. It made sense to use it to store everything else we needed a home for -- our large book collection, pantry items, a guitar amp and a sewing machine. We wanted to avoid open shelves. We customized six Besta units by fastening them together and bolting them into the wall. The configuration includes two large four shelf units and four smaller extension units. Total cost was around $1800, but the end result is almost 12’ high and 9’ wide. With a depth of just under a foot and a half, it truly maximizes our space and makes every penny well spent.
Do you have any budget-friendly storage solutions to share?
by Jennifer Myers
Related: