Ask An Expert Storage solutions

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Superb storage is the key to clutter-free spaces, writes interiors editor Kate Nixon.

Storage is built into every available space in this Melbourne apartment by Studio Amble, including a nook near the doorway and along the length of the hall outside.

Standalone heroes

Storage is essential to a well-resolved interior. When done well, it’s the perfect marriage of form and function. When planning yours, first consider what type of storage is needed and what is practical within the layout of the room. Where space is at a premium – such as in powder rooms and studies – shallow, easily accessible cupboards and drawers are essential. Wardrobes can be compact or sprawling but should always offer a combination of drawers, half- and full-height hanging and open shelves. Utilise hallways and landings for full-height cabinetry and bespoke bedheads for built-in bedside storage. Draw inspiration for details and materials from a room’s existing finishes, with a careful edit of tones and textures. >

Where to buy

Zuster Lots of lovely storage solutions, including the elegant Issy collection for bathrooms, exclusive to Reece. zuster.com.au. MadeMeasure Leather cabinet pulls, loops and door handles. mademeasure.com. Fanuli Customised wardrobe solutions crafted and made in Italy. fanuli.com.au. Hepburn Hardware Classic, affordable handles and knobs in bronze, brass, nickel, glass, chrome and rope finishes. hepburnhardware.com. House of Bamboo Woven panels in rattan and cane webbing for joinery door inserts. houseofbamboo.com.au. Ikea Affordable, customisable and upgradeable storage for every room. ikea.com/au.

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1 Nate vanity with integrated resin basin and benchtop, $1199, Early Settler; earlysettler.com.au. 2 Kaspar oak bedside table with three drawers, $399, Freedom; freedom.com.au. 3 Portman birch dresser with tempered-glass top, $6795, Max Sparrow; maxsparrow.com.au. 4 McQueen walnut tallboy by Matthew Hilton for De La Espada, $11,695, Spence & Lyda; spenceandlyda.com.au. 5 Caledonia mangowood and rattan wardrobe, $2299, Brosa; brosa.com.au.

LEFT For optimum functionality, include hanging rails at half- and full length. THIS IMAGE Make a feature of storage by using interesting materials such as burl timber. BELOW RIGHT A slimline desk can function as a bedside, dressing table and charging station in one. BELOW LEFT Personalise minimalist joinery with eye-catching pulls. OPPOSITE A mixture of open and closed shelving delivers on looks, storage space and flexibility.

Consider both what type of storage is needed and what is practical given the size and layout of the room.

Fresh ideas & easy updates

● Consider contrasting door treatments for visual interest – think mesh, woven rattan or inlays. ● Interesting knobs and pulls can refresh joinery without the expense of new furniture. ● A combination of both open and closed storage enables you to hide clutter and add personality with select objects on display. ● Add sensor LED strips inside wardrobes and under overhead cabinets in kitchens and bathrooms for ambient light when and where you need it.

Open-weave inserts on wardrobe doors ensures air can circulate, preventing musty-smelling fabrics. #