26 Feb Incorporating Custom Built-Ins for Smarter Storage and Style

One common problem homeowners in the Quad Cities, and likely across the country, face regularly is where to store their “stuff”. It seems we never have enough storage space to keep our homes organized and tidy, and our belongings easily accessible. And utilizing bins or crates is far from stylish. Wouldn’t it be wonderful to incorporate style and storage? You can with custom built-ins.

In addition to maximizing your home’s efficiency, custom built-ins can be tailored to use underutilized areas, such as beneath staircases, in alcoves, and along walls. When you use custom shelving and cabinets, and even hidden-from-view compartments, to solve your storage problems, you keep your space free from clutter and maintain a stylish aesthetic.

In fact, custom built-ins can be one of the most effective ways to upgrade your space while providing smart storage solutions. Here are some ways to incorporate custom built-ins for smarter storage and style in your home. 

Plan Before You Begin

Before you begin your project or integrate built-ins into your custom design, take a look at how your storage will function, and where. Define your storage plans based on specific spaces in your home. For example:

• Bedroom: Wardrobes, headboard shelving, storage under the bed, and an in-wall hidden storage make stowing bedding, seasonal blankets, and necessities for an en suite convenient. 

• Dining Areas: Formal dining rooms benefit from built-in buffets for formal dinnerware and drawers for linens. Built-in benches in your everyday dining nook provide seating and hidden storage.

• Living/Family Room: Custom built-ins where your family gathers can double as media walls, window seats with hidden storage, and built-in bookcases.

• Home Office: Whether you work from home regularly or just need a quiet space for homework, built-in desks, bookcases, and file drawers keep your area tidy and efficient without sacrificing style.

Mudrooms, alcoves, entryways, and hallways lend themselves ideally to custom storage for things like sporting equipment, outdoor clothing such as coats, boots, scarves, etc. Hallway and alcove storage, such as hidden drawers and custom shelving, make the perfect place to stash seasonal decor and infrequently-used accessories. 

Ways to Incorporate Custom Built-Ins for Smart and Stylish Storage

Unlike free-standing storage such as bookcases, wardrobes, armoires, and chests, custom built-ins are designed to fit into your home’s architectural layout. In this way, you’ll have cleaner lines and a more cohesive and complementary look. This type of smarter storage enhances your aesthetic rather than interrupting your space. Here are some of our more specific ideas for incorporating custom built-ins into your home design.

Maximize All Areas

If you have high ceilings, vaulted ceilings, or a two-story entryway, you have underutilized wall space. Use the upper areas to add display shelves, floor-to-ceiling cabinets, and bookcases. You can incorporate a ladder system to access these areas as necessary. These custom built-ins can become a dramatic focal point, adding unique style to any area. 

Don’t Be Afraid of Invisible Storage

Hidden cabinets, lift-up bench seating, tucked-away charging stations for your devices, and closed media cabinets are a wonderful option for storing visual clutter like toys, gaming accessories, electronics, cables, and paper files. 

Blend Storage with Architecture for Stylized Functionality

Custom storage should look like it is a part of your home’s architecture. Match trims and woodworking, use symmetrical shelving, and align your built-ins with window height and door height. Follow the design aesthetic by matching wood and overall style, such as light wood and painted surfaces for mid-century modern, and deep, rich wood for traditional home design.

Make Custom Built-Ins Multi-Functional

Custom-designed homes these days embrace multi-functional spaces. For example, home offices also serve as home gyms, or do double-duty as guest rooms. Why not make your storage multi-purpose too? Draw back a bookcase to open a workout space, and bench seating can also accommodate deep storage drawers. There are many ways to add multi-purpose custom built-ins to your home. Your family’s life evolves, why shouldn’t your storage? 

Interested in Smart Storage Solutions?

Whether you’re embarking on a custom home journey or upgrading your home to include custom built-ins, we are here to help. Seiffert Home Design has design professionals who can help with your unique needs. We will give you the smart storage you need without losing your style aesthetic. Please contact your hometown professionals at Seiffert Home Design today and let us help you.