Schools are now up and running on their "new normal" schedule, requiring many of us to adapt our living & working space accordingly, so they'll fit a wide scale of new functions.
How do you maintain both your sanity and esthetic values at times like these? With lots of storage, low maintenance furniture, cohesive design & repetition.
Storage, storage & some more storage please
And so the example for that happens to be my all-time favorite Ikea's Trofast storage combination. I know it's originally designed for kids' rooms, but don't be afraid to use it in your living room, if that's where your kids are hanging now. I love its simplicity, neutrality, modularity and functionality. It's basically drawers your kids can pull out, take with them to where ever they want, and put right back in. in theory, at least.
More toy storage combination that can function well anywhere around the house:
/1. Ouef mini library $678 /2. Basicwise cube wooden organizer $174 /3. Crate&Kids District stackable bookcase, from $229
Low maintenance furniture
Also known as slip-covered sofas, which is my new religion and I'm now trying to convert as many people as possible. I came across this brilliance after dealing with a sick child throwing up all over my beloved, non-washable, expensive sofa, and needless to say, it scared me for life.
Since I've seen the light, I'm a care-free woman (in this department only) because it's washable. Plus, washable covers unlock all bright colors, white included, because they are, you've guessed right, washable.
Here are some of my favorite sofas with removable/slip covers:
Cohesive color scheme & Continuous lines
When everything is a mess, including (or especially?) your home, it's comforting to at least have a calming, cohesive background, since your eyes don't jump hectically from one color/object/height to another. Try imagining a wall with one continuous storage system, compared to a wall with a TV cabinet, next to a bookcase, next to toy bins.
One more thing, open shelves are pretty, but in a real-functioning home (especially with kids!) it's imperative to hide all eclectic possessions behind closed doors, hence the cabinets.
Matching your outfit to the décor is a bonus, as beautifully manifested in the image above.
Repetition
Repetition is powerful, so if you need opulent storage space, try to use your largest wall and organize your storage system along that wall. It will look so much better than any lonely bookcase, and it will serve your organization needs better. A win-win!
Some more storage systems:
/1. Ikea Svalnas wall-mounted workspace combination $445 /2. CB2 Helix bookcase $499 /3. Crate&Barrel Knox tall storage bookcase $1,299 /4. DWR String floor shelving $630
Good luck my friends, stay sane and safe!