Think More Storage, Not More Space

Long before I became a student of interior design, I've been an admirer and enthusiast of great design and architecture. I've always been drawn to places that were well laid out (otherwise known as good "space planning"), streamlined, warm, interesting, and cozy.

I have a collection of books and magazines I regularly pick up and reference that I call "design porn." :) As I started researching today for a school paper, I accessed my library for one of my favorite reads: The Not So Big House by Sarah Susanka. And couldn't find it! No, I'm not unorganized (wink) - I forgot that this was a book I'd borrowed from someone and don't actually own. Off to Amazon I go...this is a must-have book, in my opinion!

Ms. Susanka's books all focus on the topic of doing more with less. Most of us don't really need 2000+ square feet to live our lives; what we really need are better designed spaces that truly accommodate our lifestyles and our belongings. I'm a strong proponent of this philosophy. The hardest part for me being in design school is the idea that new is always better. It's not! Reuse what you have. Not only is it the "green" option, but it's also the more affordable way to go. And if/when you design or shop for a home or remodel your current place, think about storage, storage, storage. This is what most homes lack, even (and especially) the gigantic ones. And this is where Sarah Susanka excels: she uses concepts from boat and RV design to work storage into every place in a home, in a stylish and functional way. It's so cool! Check out her website if you have a chance and get inspired to streamline your home :)

Happy New Year!
-amy

Ideal Bite says hire a "Green" home organizer

I subscribe to this great service, Ideal Bite, that provides daily tips to make your life a little more "green." I love it because the tips are short and sweet, come right to my inbox, and are usually something anyone can handle adding to their routine.

Today's tip really made me smile though -- as part of their "make life easy week," they recommend hiring a professional organizer that knows how to do things green(er). Great idea! :)

The Benefits:

• A good green organizer will help you repurpose or sell stuff you don't need, so you can pocket some cash without resorting to money laundering.
• They'll help you hook up with other local eco-resources (movers, painters…).
• Many use green products such as sustainable shelving and storage containers made from materials like bamboo instead of PVC.
• A more organized house means less stress.

Thanks for reading!
-amy