PHOTOGRAPHY, ROBIN STUBBERT
Special Issue
ORGANIZING IDEAS 100
small space solutions KITCHENS • BATHS • CLOSETS • ENTRYWAYS
EXPERT
ADVICE SMART
STORAGE PRODUCTS OPEN SHELVES
STYLED RIGHT
styleathome.com
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Contents CHAPTER 1 declutter your digs
your CHAPTER 2 sort stuff
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30
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HANDY HELPERS Keep your small space stress-free yet stylish with smart storage essentials for every room ORGANIZING CHECKLIST Six lists of to-dos to help you keep the most important rooms in your home tidy
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PHOTOGRAPHY, DONNA GRIFFITH; DESIGN, CHRISTINE HANLON
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GRAND CENTRAL Ways to take your kitchen from mega messy to optimally organized FRESH FACED Tips for busting clutter in the space that braves the morning rush: the bathroom NEW ARRIVAL How to welcome order and keep your entryway nice and neat
COVER PHOTOGRAPHY Robin Stubbert COVER INTERIOR DESIGN Michele Lee
STYLEATHOME.COM ORGANIZING IDEA 2019 S
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Editorial Director Erin McLaughlin curated her favourite hues in the Beauti-Tone Paint Style at Home Country Colour Collection 2.
BABBLING BROOK FD090-3
Available exclusively at Home Hardware and Building Centre locations. Actual paint colour may not be as shown.
beauti-tone.ca
This dramatic new navy is on trend this season.
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COME CLEAN An orderly laundry room will have your routine all ironed out
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GOOD WORK How to keep your stuff sorted and the creative juices flowing in your workspace
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DRESS CODE The top ways to make your closet appear as put together as your ensembles
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ONE PIECE AT A TIME Get inspired to take your shelves from drab and disorganized to creative and curated
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your CHAPTER 3 style space
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ARTISTS IN RESIDENCE Personal objects, antiques and contemporary style are the keys to a couple’s reimagined abode
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DOWN TO A FINE ART A Montreal loft serves as the ideal backdrop for an expansive collection of artwork HAPPY CAMPERS This designer’s sublime urban cabin offers a rustic escape in the heart of the city FASHION FORWARD A shop owner brings a touch of Parisian charm to her 1950s home HOW TO EDIT YOUR SPACE The best advice from the duo behind Instagram sensation The Home Edit ORGANIZING IDEAS TO STEAL Twelve ideas we love for keeping a home neat, all from Instagram! STYLE INSPIRATION Get the look of designer Jillian Harris’s charming laundry room in your own space
PHOTOGRAPHY, STACEY BRANDFORD; DESIGN, JACQUELYN CLARK
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PERFECTLY IMPERFECT How a neat freak textile designer and artist maintains a stylish look in her live-work space
STYLEATHOME.COM SMALL STYLEATHOME.COM SPACE ORGANIZING ORGANIZING 2019 | 5 IDEAS 2019
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ORGANIZING IDEAS SPECIAL ISSUE 2019
Vice-President, TVA Publications Lyne Robitaille Publisher Jacqueline Howe Editorial Director Erin McLaughlin Executive Editor Suzanne Moutis Creative Director Karen Paddon Project Editor Catherine Therrien Project Art Director Emilie Simpson ONE EASY WAY TO REACH US: FIRSTNAME.LASTNAME@TVA.CA DESIGN & STYLE Home & Style Director Ann Marie Favot Design Editor Morgan Lindsay EDITORIAL Senior Features Editor Sara Cation Features Editors Amanda Etty, Mary Levitski Editorial Assistants Marianne Davidson, Sarah Dziedzic Contributing Editors Lisa Fielding, Fina Scroppo Researcher Rhiannon Russell ART Deputy Art Directors Lena Diaz (on leave), Florence Kwok Contributing Art Director Leanne Gilbert Production Specialist Genevieve Pizzale STYLEATHOME.COM Digital Content Director Elaine Song Senior Digital Editor Renée Reardin Digital Producer Linda Cotrina Digital Assistant Murissa Barrington PRINTING Printed at Transcontinental RBW Graphics, a division of Transcontinental Printing 2005 G.P., 2049 20th St. E., Owen Sound, ON N4K 5R2. All reproduction requests must be made to COPIBEC (paper reproductions at 800-717-2022). ISSN: 1915-8998. DISTRIBUTION Distributed by Coast to Coast. SUBSCRIPTIONS: 416-380-7423, STYLEATHOME.COM STYLE AT HOME, Sub. Dept., P.O. Box 814, Markham Station, Markham, ON L3P 7Z6. Send address changes to the post office box address above, including the mailing label from your latest issue. Allow eight weeks for changes. SUBSCRIPTION PRICES Canadian subscriptions: 1 year = $34.95 (plus taxes). U.S. subscriptions: 1 year = $90.00 (payable in advance). International subscriptions: 1 year = $180.00 (payable in advance). Digital editions are available on Molto, Zinio, PressReader, Ebsco and Google Play. We occasionally use our subscriber list for marketing purposes, or share it with carefully selected companies whose products may be of interest to you. If you do not want your name to appear on this list, please notify us in writing. Canadian Postmaster: Return undeliverable Canadian addresses to Style at Home, 25 Sheppard Ave. W., Ste. 100, Toronto, ON M2N 6S7. Publications Mail Agreement 41557548, PAP Registration 08282. Postage paid at Gateway in Mississauga, ON. U.S. Postmaster: Send address changes to Style at Home, P.O. Box 766, Buffalo, NY 14240-0766. Periodicals postage paid at Buffalo, NY USPS731-350. OUR PRIVACY POLICY The reproduction of written material, illustrations or photographs from this magazine is prohibited. Although all possible precaution has been taken to ensure that the information contained in Style at Home is accurate, it is understood that the magazine cannot be held responsible for errors or omissions that may occur in relation to the use or presentation of this information. The articles in this magazine are the exclusive responsibility of their authors. Style at Home is published 11 times a year (except for occasional combined, expanded or premium issues) by TVA Publications Inc., 25 Sheppard Ave. W., Toronto, ON M2N 6S7; 416-733-7600; groupetva.ca. For any comments, please email letters@styleathome.com. ©2019 TVA Publications Inc. All rights reserved.
PRODUCTION Director of Operations Johanne Perron Production Coordinator Linda Desjardins MARKETING, COMMUNICATIONS & EVENTS Senior Marketing Director, Publications Martine Aubin Director, Newsstand Sales Michel Nivischiuk Director, Subscription and Circulation Evelyne Labonté Head of Acquisition and Renewals Amanda Stone Director, Marketing, Communications and Events Silvana Sciortino ADVERTISING SALES, TORONTO 416-227-8248 (patricia.mixemong@quebecormedia.com) Senior Director, Media Solutions Transactional Jérôme Leys Key Account Directors, National Advertising Sales Andrea McBride, Akta Sharma Advertising Coordination Team Leader Maddie Belanger Advertising and Traffic Coordinator Yvonne Peden National Account Managers Paul Cummins, Jillian Dann-Macerollo, Cathy Ellis, Delainie Salvatore, Tony Vigario, Vanessa Watson, Lindsay Weir (on leave), Joanna Woodman Digital National Sales Representative Gwen O’Toole Sales Associate Patricia Mixemong ADVERTISING SALES, MONTREAL 514-598-2880 (ventespublicitaires@tva.ca) Senior Director, Media Solutions, Transactional Patricia Heckmann Senior Directors, Media Solutions Karl Berthome, Caroline Gagnon Sales Director, Magazines, Newspapers & OOH Kimberley Rouse National Sales Representative Stéphanie Mercier Local Sales Consultants Vickie Bouthillier, Vicky Préfontaine, Kathy Marquis Coordinators Mélina Delorme (on leave), Rosina De Rose, Martine Mailly, Maria Perrotti QUEBEC CITY AND REST OF QUEBEC 418-688-9330 ext. 7516 Product Manager Sylvie Bruneau MARKETING & CREATIVE SOLUTIONS Brand Manager Mieka Jansen Strategist Jeremie Marcoux Project Managers Inga Terzopoulos, Kathryn Walsh SENIOR MANAGEMENT, TVA GROUP INC. President and CEO of TVA Group Inc. France Lauzière Senior Vice-President and Chief Operating Officer Martin Picard Vice-President and Director of Finance Denis Rozon President of Human Resources Jean-François Reid Executive Vice-President of Advertising Donald Lizotte Vice-President of Communications Véronique Mercier Financial Information and Auditing Manager Anick Dubois
FROM THE EDITORS
small but
MIGHTY
PHOTOGRAPHY, ROBIN STUBBERT; DESIGN, MICHELE LEE
SO YOU LIVE IN A SMALL SPACE, AND YOU HAVE A LOT OF STUFF. You don’t know
where to put it or how to arrange it in an attractive way. The struggle is real. As editors who work in a city and live in tinier-than-average homes, we’re all too familiar with this issue. We understand firsthand the storage and design dilemmas of a petite pad – the too-little closets, the lack of countertops, the awkward nooks, the miniscule bathrooms...the list goes on. But small space living doesn’t have to mean constant clutter and disastrous decor. The secret? Organization. It’s as simple as that, but we all know it’s not as easy as that! To learn how to do it right, we present this special issue dedicated to bringing order to every square inch you occupy. We start off with tidying schedules (things can get out of hand quickly in tight quarters) and then move on to room-by-room ideas for getting messes under control (it’s all about smart and stylish storage solutions). We also feature five fabulous homes that prove you don’t have to be a minimalist to make the most of your wee abode (clever and creative thinking is key). And last but not least, we turn to the pros for clutter cures (you’ll be obsessed with colourcoding by the last page). That’s just a taste of what’s on offer in this handy guidebook. It’s jam-packed with useful tips and tricks – many new and some tried and true – as well as endless inspiration. Now ask yourself: Am I ready to take this organizational journey? Your small space sure hopes so.
THIS ISSUE IS FULL OF INSPIRATION FOR ORGANIZING YOUR PINT-SIZED SPACE. Take our front cover as a shining example – it just goes to show that a teeny-tiny office can be both functional and fashionable when you use the right furnishings (a large desk and open shelving) and key storage essentials (baskets and boxes).
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DECLUTTER
your digs A roundup of the latest and greatest products on the market to help you cut your clutter, sort your stuff, soothe your stress and bring order to your chaos. And to get you organized and – more importantly – help you stay that way, we whipped up easy-to-follow checklists for all those areas in your home that are magnets for unsightly messes...you know the ones!
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The best new finds for saving time and space in every room in the house.
KITCHEN TO-DOS Maintaining a tidy cooking space will help you stay on track.
BATHROOM TO-DOS A regimented schedule is key to a clean and uncluttered loo.
ENTRY WAY TO-DOS Perform these chores to ensure your entryway always makes a good first impression.
LAUNDRY ROOM TO-DOS This hard-working zone deserves to be pampered on the regular.
WORK ROOM TO-DOS Keep tabs on your office mess by following a few simple but important steps.
CLOSET TO-DOS A list of tasks that guarantees your wardrobe storage will look as sharp as your latest outfit.
CHAPTER
10
HANDY HELPERS
1
HANDY HELPERS Keep your small space stress-free yet stylish with these smart storage essentials for every room. Get even more organized with our DIY labels.
K I TC H EN & BAT H Resin and wood tiered JEWELLERY TRAY, $20 US, Anthropologie, anthropologie.com.
Powder-coated steel and acacia wood Clark CANISTERS, from $40 each, Crate and Barrel, crateandbarrel.ca.
Metal wicker BASKET, $30, HomeSense, homesense.ca.
A SEMICIRCULAR DESIGN IS IDEAL FOR TIGHT QUARTERS.
Powder-coated metal Cubiko MIRROR & STORAGE UNIT, $90, Umbra, umbra.com.
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STYLEATHOME.COM ORGANIZING IDEAS 2019
PRODUCER, MORGAN LINDSAY
Cuisinart stainless steel wall-mounted POT RACK, $80, Bed Bath & Beyond, bedbathandbeyond.ca.
BE D R OO M
PERFECT FOR KEEPING YOUR SOCKS AND SKIVVIES ORGANIZED.
Real Simple plastic Honeycomb DRAWER ORGANIZER, $15, Bed Bath & Beyond, bedbathandbeyond.ca.
Polycotton blend and ďŹ breboard drop-front SHOE BOXES, $15 US each, The Container Store, containerstore.com.
Painted rubberwood Spot HOOKS, $10 each, EQ3, eq3.com.
Rebrilliant metal and plastic Preusser SHELF DIVIDER, $25 per set of 2, Wayfair.ca. Cotton blend three-pouch wall-hanging ORGANIZER, $6, eBay, ebay.ca.
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ENT RYWAY Powder-coated steel Knapper STANDING MIRROR, $50, IKEA, ikea.ca.
Powder-coated steel and wood multi-hook Estique ORGANIZER, $25, Umbra, umbra.com.
TWO WAYS TO HANG THIS: OVER THE DOOR OR ON THE WALL.
Muuto felt Restore Round BASKET in Black, $165, Restore TRAY in Grey, $115, and Restore BASKET in Rose Melange, $129, The Modern Shop, themodernshop.ca.
Yamazaki wood and steel magnetic Rin KEY RACK in White, $30, Neat Space, neatspace.ca.
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Mango wood and powder-coated iron Murphy BENCH (cushion sold separately), $223, Pottery Barn, potterybarn.com.
O F F IC E
Rosa FILE FOLDERS, $14 US per pack of 6, weekly Pink Floral DESK PLANNER, $12 US, Rifle Paper Co., riflepaperco.com.
Russell + Hazel acrylic MAGAZINE HOLDER, $34, Indigo, indigo.ca.
MDF and polyester Kube STORAGE OTTOMAN in Modest Grey, $70, Kvell, kvellhome.com.
Painted wrought iron and glass Enzo SHELVING UNIT, $380, Pier 1 Imports, pier1.ca.
SEATING AND STORAGE IN ONE – PLUS, IT FOLDS FLAT!
Newgate plywood Mr. Clarke WALL CLOCK in Pill Blue, $119, Cloudnola wood Flor WALL CLOCK in Red, $77, West Elm, westelm.ca.
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E la bel tem plat es! FRE Can’t get enough of labels? Style at Home has created elegant designs just for you. Photocopy these pages onto an adhesive sheet and cut out the stickers, or go to styleathome.com/labels to download a printable template.
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KITCHEN TO-DOS
G OR
ANIZIN
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CKLIST E H
You had the best intentions: You meant to toss the trash and planned to purge the fridge, but the day is done before the work is. This checklist for keeping the kitchen tidy will help you stay on track.
how to KEEP THE COOK’S QUARTERS NEAT D A I LY
Put everything back in its proper place
W E E K LY
Create a meal plan for the week Go through your cupboards and fridge, and make a list of what you need at the grocery store; toss expired or spoiled items Put away anything that doesn’t belong in the kitchen
B I W E E K LY
Tidy up your pots and pans; if you don’t have a storage organizer, put paper towels between each piece to prevent scratching
M O N T H LY
Make an inventory of your freezer to help with your meal plans for the coming weeks Take note of what you need from the bulk food store Declutter your junk drawer; arrange odds and ends in small trays
S E A S O N A L LY
Organize your to-go containers, weeding out the broken ones and those with missing lids
PHOTOGRAPHY, DONNA GRIFFITH; DESIGN, TIM LAM
Go through your kitchen linens and dishware; toss anything that’s stained, ripped, chipped or cracked, and donate what you don’t use Sort through your spices and dried goods and throw out any that have gone stale or rancid Donate any unused cookbooks or trade them with family and friends; catalogue your recipe cards and clippings in a binder
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Much like your beauty routine, maintaining a spotless uncluttered bathroom requires serious maintenance. A regimented schedule is key to keeping vanity countertops clear and disorderly cabinets in check. Follow this checklist and when all is said and done, your loo will be as pictureperfect as you are.
PHOTOGRAPHY, ANGUS FERGUSSON; DESIGN, CHRISTINE HANLON
BATHROOM TO-DOS
G OR
ANIZIN
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CKLIST E H
how to KEEP THE BEAUTY QUEEN’S DOMAIN TIDY
D A I LY
Put everything (like toothpaste and makeup) back in its proper place
W E E K LY
Fold and store laundered towels Put away anything that doesn’t belong in the bathroom
B I W E E K LY
Tidy up your toiletries if you don’t have storage organizers like inserts or caddies
M O N T H LY
Declutter your cabinets; determine whether you need (and actually use) each item
S E A S O N A L LY
Go through your medicine cabinet and properly dispose of expired medications Sort through your cosmetics and toss those that have expired or gone rancid Organize your towels; throw away any that have holes or are simply worn out
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ENTRYWAY TO-DOS
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CKLIST E H
They say your entryway makes your home’s ďŹ rst impression. So things like a mudencrusted mat, a cluster of shoes and a tower of junk mail warn guests that the rest of your house is just as unkempt. Follow this chore checklist to make sure even your pizza delivery guy knows you keep a clean home.
how to MAINTAIN A FUNCTIONAL FOYER
D A I LY
Put everything (shoes, hats, mittens, pet accessories, etc.) back in its proper place
W E E K LY
Sort through the mail stack and toss away junk mail
B I W E E K LY
Empty your wallet of receipts and ďŹ le or throw them out
M O N T H LY
Declutter your drawers: As drop zones for junk coming in the front door, entryway storage spots require extraspecial attention
S E A S O N A L LY
Switch up your doormat. Thick coir mats, with their hard bristles, are the best match for winter boots, while rubber and rope mats are lighter summer options that will still stand up to rain
PHOTOGRAPHY, MICHAEL NANGREAVES; DESIGN, ANDREA MCCRINDLE
Clean your entryway rug or runner Go through your seasonal outerwear. Toss items like worn-out shoes and mittens that have lost their match, and donate things such as outgrown coats
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TO-DOS LAUNDRY ROOM
G OR
ANIZIN
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CKLIST E H
Its sole purpose is to make the dingy, dirty and dishevelled look new again, but the space itself is rarely ready for its close-up. There’s no arguing that the laundry room is one of the hardestworking zones in your home, so aim to keep it looking sharp, too. Follow this easy checklist to attain a space that appears as spiffy as it makes your finest outfit.
how to KEEP YOUR LAUNDERING LOCALE SPIC AND SPAN
D A I LY
Deposit soiled clothing in designated hampers, pre-treating any stains and separating darks, lights, colours and delicates
W E E K LY
Launder and dry clothes according to their labels Take down any items that were hung to dry the previous week Sort, fold and iron dry garments before taking them to each family member’s room
B I W E E K LY
Take stock of supplies, such as detergent, fabric softener and dryer sheets, and refill as needed
M O N T H LY
Sanitize the washer by running an empty load with white vinegar on the hottest setting
PHOTOGRAPHY, DONNA GRIFFITH; DESIGN, ORSI PANOS
Wipe down the interior of the dryer with a damp cloth
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WORK ROOM TO-DOS
G OR
ANIZIN
G
C
CKLIST E H
Let’s be honest: No number of baskets or bins will ensure a room stays tidy all the time. Keep clutter under control in your workspace with this handy checklist.
how to CONTROL CLUTTER IN UNRULY SPACES
D A I LY
Put everything back in its proper place
W E E K LY
File away school work, such as art projects and returned homework Toss dried-up markers and broken crayons, as well as ripped or scribbledon pieces of paper Sort through mail, filing, tossing or shredding the contents
M O N T H LY
Clean out drawers and shelves, recycling old magazines and catalogues, as well as returning borrowed books and movies
S E A S O N A L LY
Make an inventory of supplies to determine what needs to be restocked, from pens and paints to staples and stationery
PHOTOGRAPHY, STACEY BRANDFORD; DESIGN, ANN MARIE FAVOT
Go through bills and opt for electronic versions to help decrease the amount of paperwork floating around Perform an audit on your workspace and get rid of anything that’s not essential; fewer things mean fewer distractions Update file folders with accurate labels and shred documents you no longer need to keep
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CLOSET TO-DOS
G OR
ANIZIN
G
C
CKLIST E H
Putting together the perfect outfit always seems to come at a price: a pile of rejected garments on the floor. Your attire deserves better, so stay abreast of the following tasks and your closet will look as stylish as you do.
how to KEEP THE FASHIONISTA’S REALM FRESH D A I LY
Hang or fold and put back anything you take out Place worn pieces in the hamper, taking time to pre-treat stains
W E E K LY
Launder or hand-wash anything in the hamper, and neatly put it away Plan your ensembles for the week ahead to avoid hectic mornings
B I W E E K LY
Leave the closet door wide open overnight to circulate air
M O N T H LY
Check if your air freshener of choice – be it a scent sachet or fragrant bar of soap – needs to be replaced Make a trip to the dry cleaner
S E A S O N A L LY
Rotate your clothing so that season-appropriate garb is handy, keeping off-season garments on the upper shelves, in the basement or the attic Before putting away last season’s wardrobe, review it carefully, considering how much wear you got out of each piece; donate or toss anything that’s no longer in use
PHOTOGRAPHY, JANIS NICOLAY; DESIGN, JILLIAN HARRIS
As you fill your closet with this season’s wardrobe, find a system for keeping track of what has been worn and what hasn’t (for example, start with all the hangers facing outward and, as you wear garments, replace them with the hangers facing inward) Inspect clothing for holes, broken zippers and missing buttons as you put it away, and take damaged items to a seamstress or tailor Check shoes for signs of disrepair or worn-down soles; visit a cobbler
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SORT
your stuff Making a success of a diminutive footprint means getting creative with what you have. Here, we give you an abundance of ideas for wrangling your wares in wonderful ways. From the kitchen and bathroom to the office and closet, every room is covered from top to bottom. We also gathered loads of inspiration to help you create a perfectly styled shelf – a fave small-space solution.
36 42 48 54 60 66
Take your kitchen – the hub of the home – from mega messy to optimally organized.
FRESH FACED Bust the clutter in the room that faces the morning rush: the bathroom.
NEW ARRIVAL Welcome order with open arms and keep your entryway nice and neat.
COME CLEAN An orderly laundry room will have your weekly routine all ironed out.
GOOD WORK Sort the stuff in your home workspace so the creative juices are always flowing.
DRESS CODE Have your closet appear as put together as one of your best ensembles.
ONE PIECE AT A TIME Get inspired to take your shelves from drab and disorganized to creative and curated.
CHAPTER
30
GRAND CENTRAL
2
K I T C H E N S
GRAND CENTRAL
Let’s face it: Our kitchens see a lot of action. Here are 10 ways to take the hub of the home from mega messy to optimally organized.
OPEN book
PHOTOGRAPHY, MARK BURSTYN; DESIGN, MELISSA EVANS-LEE
Arrange your cookbook collection on picture ledges for a display that rivals any gallery wall. The black-on-black scheme lets the covers take centre stage.
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SHELF life
PHOTOGRAPHY, STACEY BRANDFORD; DESIGN, SHIRLEY MEISELS
Maximize your kitchen’s storage space by hanging floating shelves across windows. Keep items in front of the glass clear and airy to avoid blocking the natural light.
Add a banquette to your kitchen’s eat-in area to give it a dash of coziness and a dose of extra storage. Include drawers underneath the bench to stow things like specialoccasion serveware.
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PHOTOGRAPHY, MICHAEL NANGREAVES; DESIGN, ANDREA MCCRINDLE
BOX seats
TOP priority Hang a framed chalkboard in a prominent spot to keep track of grocery lists, busy schedules and weekly to-dos.
HIDDEN depths
PHOTOGRAPHY, ROBIN STUBBERT, DONNA GRIFFITH, MARK BURSTYN, ASHLEY CAPP; DESIGN, CHRISTIE KAUFFMAN, ELLE JUNGKIND, MELISSA EVANS-LEE, TRISH JOHNSTON
OutďŹ t your cabinets with slide-out drawers to easily access everything from the pitchers at the front to the coffee and tea at the back.
TOOL shop Place essential tools and oft-used utensils in colour-coordinated vessels to keep your countertop looking clean instead of cluttered.
try this CHOOSE A STURDY DRAWER INSERT WITH A DESIGNATED SPOT FOR SERVING UTENSILS, TOO.
GROUP effort
PHOTOGRAPHY, PHOTOGRAPHY XXXXXXXXXX MICHAEL GRAYDON; DESIGN, CHRISTINE HANLON
Corral oils, vinegars and other pantry staples in a unique tray, and set it next to the stove, so the items you use most are at your ďŹ ngertips. If you prefer a tidier look, you can easily store it in a cupboard when not in use.
ABOVE
ground
PHOTOGRAPHY, STEPHANI BUCHMAN, DONNA GRIFFITH; DESIGN, REBECCA HAY, SANO GOACHER
Integrate small counter-hogging appliances like a microwave into cabinetry or hide them altogether in cupboards.
FULL view Install a space-saving pot rail above the range for ultimate convenience: no more opening and closing doors or rummaging through drawers.
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B AT H R O O M S
FRESH FACED
Early morning routines can be a breeze. Don’t believe us? Here are 12 ways to bust the clutter in the room that braves the rush.
VANITY flair
PHOTOGRAPHY, ALEX LUKEY; DESIGN, SHIRLEY MEISELS
Amp up your vanity’s style quotient with an elegant tray. It provides an attractive surface on which to corral cosmetics and the jewellery you wear daily. A vase and candle lend a fresh flourish.
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HANG on Position a wall-mounted rack near the shower for hanging towels, as well as stowing extra ones for the bath and sink. The look is pretty and pristine.
try this
PHOTOGRAPHY, DONNA GRIFFITH; DESIGN, STACY BEGG
USE BEAUTIFUL BASKETS TO CONTAIN BATHROOM ESSENTIALS WHILE STILL MAKING A STYLE STATEMENT.
LIGHT weight Opt for a large vanity with deep drawers for plenty of closed storage. A floating design feels breezy and light, creating the illusion of space.
try this
PHOTOGRAPHY, JANIS NICOLAY; DESIGN, REBECCA LAPRES
ADD HITS OF A BOLD HUE, SUCH AS YELLOW, TO BRIGHTEN UP A LOO THAT LACKS ENOUGH NATURAL LIGHT.
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CASE study Low on storage? Incorporate a stylish free-standing cabinet to house towels, soaps and reading material. Give the unit a decorator’s touch with a few charming accessories.
REAL potential If you’re remodelling, plan for a built-in niche. It’ll keep your shower bench or tub deck free of clutter, meaning you’ll have more space to stretch out and relax.
PHOTOGRAPHY, MICHAEL NANGREAVES, JANIS NICOLAY, DONNA GRIFFITH(2); DESIGN, CHRISTINE HANLON, JILLIAN HARRIS, CATHERINE THERRIEN, SHANNON CUMMINS
CLEAR winners Ditch the packaging and fill glass canisters – these ones are vintage pasta jars – with makeup sponges, cotton swabs and pads for a tidy-looking display.
OPEN
sesame Sort toiletries into clear plastic drawer inserts to keep everything clean, organized and easy to find.
GOOD
lookin’
PHOTOGRAPHY, STACEY VAN BERKEL; DESIGN, MARGIE DOYLE WHITE
Think outside the cabinet: A sleek shelving unit makes a super chic and functional storage solution. Include glass vessels or even a tray and boxes for the ultimate in bathroom organization.
HOOK
check
PHOTOGRAPHY, DONNA GRIFFITH, ANGUS FERGUSSON; DESIGN, SHANNON CUMMINS, CHRISTINE HANLON
Keep towels off the ground and always within arm’s reach by installing hooks near the shower.
PILE up Free up valuable cupboard space by stashing toilet paper rolls in a basket that matches your bathroom’s colour scheme. You’ll always know when you’re running low.
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E N T R Y WAY S
NEW ARRIVAL
Stuff in an entryway has the potential to pile up fast – really fast! Here are 11 ways to welcome order and keep your foyer nice and neat.
BOLD move
PHOTOGRAPHY, ROBIN STUBBERT; DESIGN, MICHELE LEE
Hang hooks on a door if wall space is at a premium. Consider using brass hardware against high-gloss black to elevate the look.
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DRESSED up Try putting a dresser in the foyer – the furniture piece offers ample storage for things like scarves, gloves and reusable bags, and provides a dazzling display surface.
try this
PHOTOGRAPHY, MICHAEL NANGREAVES; DESIGN, CHRISTINE HANLON
STASH AN UMBRELLA FOR EACH FAMILY MEMBER IN A STAND IN AN UNUSED CORNER OF YOUR ENTRYWAY.
NARROW escape
PHOTOGRAPHY, STACEY VAN BERKEL; DESIGN, OLIVIA HNATYSHIN
Go for a lean and leggy console that doesn’t take up a lot of real estate. Its surface provides a place for knick-knacks, while the area underneath is perfect for a slim bench.
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HAPPY feet
try this CORRAL KEYS, GLASSES AND MAIL IN A SIMPLE TRAY. LAYER IN BOWLS TO KEEP OTHER ODDS AND ENDS TIDY.
Capitalize on what little entryway space you have with a discreet shoe cabinet and a tiny perch.
PHOTOGRAPHY, VIRGINIA MACDONALD, TRACEY AYTON, STACEY BRANDFORD, TRACEY AYTON; DESIGN, TARA BALLANTYNE, CHRISSY COTTRELL, JACQUELYN CLARK, JAMIE DECK
PRIME spot Make the most of a cumbersome radiator by building a long shelf and cubbies around it. Maximize your entry’s functionality with a mirror, baskets and hooks.
FULL
circle Lack a hall closet? Install stylish hooks in an artistic fashion to create a chic yet clutterfree place to hang coats and totes.
HANGING out
PHOTOGRAPHY, BARRY CALHOUN; DESIGN, AMANDA ROBINSON
Create an artful arrangement using entryway essentials, such as a mirror, bench and basket. Hooks don’t take up valuable square footage and are perfect for hanging in-season items.
DROP zone
PHOTOGRAPHY, VIRGINIA MACDONALD, VALERIE WILCOX; DESIGN, CROMA DESIGN, ORSI PANOS
Prevent your mud room from becoming the dumping ground of the house. Incorporate enough cabinetry so there’s a spot for everything, from sporting gear to pet supplies.
TRIPLE threat Think multi-functional when it comes to the design of your foyer. Here, a built-in bench offers a place to sit when taking off boots, stores oft-worn footwear and helps delineate the space.
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L A U N D R Y
R O O M S
COME CLEAN
An orderly laundry room will have your weekly routine all ironed out. Here are 11 ways to bring that vision to life.
GRAND scheme
PHOTOGRAPHY, ASHLEY CAPP; DESIGN, ERIN MCLAUGHLIN
Take advantage of every bit of space. Here, a wall of shallow cabinetry includes cupboards, drawers and a floor-to-ceiling closet. The work surface and stool are bonuses.
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FAR reach Keep things light and airy without sacriямБcing storage by incorporating open shelving. Items stowed in hard-to-reach areas will be easier to access.
try this
PHOTOGRAPHY, JANIS NICOLAY; DESIGN, JILLIAN HARRIS
SUSPEND A CLOTHING ROD BETWEEN TWO CABINETS FOR DRIPDRYING OR HANGING FRESHLY PRESSED GARMENTS.
MIX up
PHOTOGRAPHY, MICHAEL NANGREAVES; DESIGN, ANDREA MCCRINDLE
Vary your storage options for an organized yet eclectic look. Corral items that don’t need to be on display in anything from large woven baskets to glass canisters to lidded tins.
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try this
HIDDEN
DON’T OVERLOOK THE BACK OF THE DOOR – IT’S A CLEVER SPOT TO HANG A FOLDING IRONING BOARD.
agenda
PHOTOGRAPHY, TRACEY AYTON, ANGUS FERGUSSON, DONNA GRIFFITH(2); DESIGN, KELLEY MCNAMARA, JENNIFER FLORES, INGRID OOMEN, SHANNON CUMMINS
Combat clothing clutter with a highcapacity laundry sorter. Choose one with wheels for less lifting and carting on wash day.
NEW heights Stack your washer and dryer to conserve space, leaving room for extra cabinetry and special features, such as a beverage fridge.
DRY spell Free up floor space with a retractable drying rack positioned above the sink – it’s perfect for letting handwashed items drip-dry.
TOP shelf
PHOTOGRAPHY, ASHLEY CAPP; DESIGN, CHRISTINE DOVEY
In places where there’s no room for cabinets, install wall-mounted shelves to house accessories. If your laundry area is in an alcove, close it off with an eyecatching sliding door.
CHOPPING block
PHOTOGRAPHY, MICHAEL NANGREAVES, DONNA GRIFFITH; DESIGN, ANDREA MCCRINDLE, INGRID OOMEN
Surround your side-by-side front-loading washer and dryer with a durable butcher block countertop to maximize folding space as well as visual appeal.
CRYSTAL clear Display laundry room necessities in glass canisters on the counter for easy access. Hide any valuesized boxes in nearby cupboards and reďŹ ll the jars when needed.
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O F F I C E S
GOOD WORK
Tidying up an office can feel like a near-impossible feat. Here are 11 ways to keep your stuff sorted and the creative juices flowing.
CLIP art
PHOTOGRAPHY, TRACEY AYTON; DESIGN, LEAH BELFORD
Contain all of your inspiration in one convenient place – on a bulletin board. You can also post paperwork to keep what’s important top of mind. Tip: Paint the board white to let your colourful ideas shine.
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VERTICAL lines
PHOTOGRAPHY, MICHAEL NANGREAVES; DESIGN, ANDREA MCCRINDLE
Save space with a number of wall-mounted storage bins – they keep the things you use most handy without cluttering your desktop.
BEYOND imagination
PHOTOGRAPHY, JANIS NICOLAY; DESIGN, CATHERINE THERRIEN
Get creative with your office storage. Here, an antique pie cupboard houses everything from magazines (grouped by publication) to art supplies (categorized in wicker baskets) to bills (organized in accordion folders) on its four generous shelves.
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DOUBLE duty Be resourceful. This bedroom’s office nook features a desk composed of two IKEA dressers and a whitepainted plywood top. It also doubles as a makeup station.
STANDING order
Organize what’s behind closed doors, too! Use file sorters, magazine holders and lidded boxes in a single hue for a cohesive clutter-free look.
PHOTOGRAPHY, DONNA GRIFFITH(2), KIM CHRISTIE, MICHAEL GRAYDON; DESIGN, TIM LAM, STACY BEGG & MORGAN LINDSAY, KIM CALABRIGO, JENIFER GLOVER
BALANCED books Surround a desk with bookcases for optimal storage. The uniform colour of these books, magazine holders and accessories keeps the visual noise to a minimum.
try this HANG A SERIES OF CLIPBOARDS ON A WALL TO KEEP TRACK OF PAPERS AND PROJECTS OR SHOWCASE INSPIRATION.
LIVING large Forgo the desk calendar for a supersized wall version to ensure important dates aren’t missed. Plus, the graphic appeal acts as a resting spot for the eye among the inevitable bits and pieces on the desk.
try this
PHOTOGRAPHY, VIRGINIA MACDONALD; DESIGN, TARA BALLANTYNE
PLACE ESSENTIALS ON A TRAY FOR A TIDY LOOK. YOU CAN MOVE IT OUT OF THE WAY WHEN MORE DESK SPACE IS NEEDED.
WALL
treatment
PHOTOGRAPHY, ROBIN STUBBERT, ANGUS FERGUSSON; DESIGN, MICHELE LEE, ERIN FEASBY & CINDY BLEEKS
Tack up your favourite photos, magazine clippings and handwritten notes to create an inspiring yet orderly arrangement in your home office.
SINGLE file Source pre-made kitchen cabinets to function as workspace furniture and storage. The plate rack shown here cleverly holds ďŹ les while wine cubbies stash rolled-up blueprints.
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C L O S E T S
DRESS CODE It’s only right that your closet appears as put together as your ensembles. Here are 12 ways to make your space look like a million bucks.
HAUTE couture
PHOTOGRAPHY, MAXIME DESBIENS; DESIGN, LAUREN MACLEAN
Use a clothing rack if space is tight and you’re in need of extra hanging room – or if you’re simply after a behind-the-scenes fashion show vibe!
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try this TAKE AN ANGLED WALL FROM EYESORE TO EYE-CATCHING WITH A FEW STRIPS OF WHIMSICAL WALLPAPER.
PRIMPED out
PHOTOGRAPHY, DONNA GRIFFITH; DESIGN, STACY BEGG
Designate a spot in your walk-in for a dresser to stash everything from socks to sweaters to skivvies. A freestanding piece will make the room feel more spacious, and you can use its top as a primping station.
FINE attire
try this ADD SOME SEATING, SUCH AS A TUFTED OTTOMAN OR A CURVY CHAIR, TO GIVE YOUR SPACE A DRESSING ROOM FEEL.
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PHOTOGRAPHY, STACEY BRANDFORD; DESIGN, JACQUELYN CLARK
No closet at all? Make your dressing quarters part of your master suite. Whether you go custom or shop at a big-box store, opt for a storage system that complements your room’s decor.
BOXED in Repurpose sturdy boxes from your favourite shops – they’re ideal hiding spots for small offseason items like scarves and gloves.
BASKET case
PHOTOGRAPHY, STACEY BRANDFORD, DONNA GRIFFITH, RYAN BROOK, TRACEY AYTON; DESIGN, JENNIFER FERREIRA, STACY BEGG, ANN MARIE FAVOT, ERICA COOK
Incorporate pull-out wire baskets to take advantage of the full depth of your closet while still being able to view everything at a glance.
GREAT divide Keep accessories from becoming a tangled mess by storing them in drawers fitted with acrylic dividers.
TAILOR made
Consider your needs before creating the closet of your dreams. If you have a handbag obsession, for instance, make sure to include loads of shelves.
CROWN jewels
PHOTOGRAPHY, ALEX LUKEY; DESIGN, JACQUELYN CLARK
Save cabinet space for basics and put baubles on display. You don’t have to spend a lot to showcase your collection, either. Here, simple dishes and a stringwrapped branch outfitted with hooks do the trick.
ART form
PHOTOGRAPHY, MICHAEL NANGREAVES, STACEY BRANDFORD; DESIGN, ANDREA MCCRINDLE, JACQUELYN CLARK
Transform an awkward nook into a stylish vignette by arranging flashy footwear on picture ledges and floating shelves.
BEAUTY counter Round up pretty perfumes on an elegant tray. The resulting look is fancy yet functional.
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ONE
Get inspired to take your shelves from drab and disorganized to creative and curated.
A TIME
PIECE AT
PHOTOGRAPHY, DONNA GRIFFITH; DESIGN, CHRISTINE HANLON
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PHOTOGRAPHY, STACEY BRANDFORD, JANIS NICOLAY, ROBIN STUBBERT; DESIGN, JENNIFER FERREIRA, JILLIAN HARRIS, CHRISTINE HANLON
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An all-white arrangement is anything but boring when accented with hits of black. The well-organized vignettes on these floating shelves enhance the graphic appeal, while the mix of matte and high-gloss finishes offers subtle interest.
Carefully chosen accessories and coffee table books give this slim metal and glass shelving unit an art exhibit feel. A strict colour scheme of black, white and natural tones complements the room’s decor and speaks to a tailored modern aesthetic.
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Beautiful built-ins are lovely spots to showcase an assortment of wares, including neat stacks of cozy throws. Woven baskets hide items you don’t want on display (like electronics) and bring loads of texture and warmth to the overall scene.
“The more the merrier” is the thinking behind this dynamic display, but it feels orderly thanks to the strategic placement of items. The transition from small light-hued dishes at the top to large dark baskets at the bottom is pleasing to the eye.
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Open shelving looks clean and collected in a kitchen when filled with everyday dishes that stick to a strict palette. The varying shades of blue – from turquoise to navy – pair perfectly with this petite cooking space’s white and grey colour scheme.
Pretty and polished is the name of the game here. In this bathroom’s glass-enclosed cabinet, sparkly clear canisters mingle with plush white towels and blush pink accents to great effect. The small groupings on each shelf produce a singular stylish display.
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This artful arrangement has all the elements of a successful shelfie: layers of artwork, stacks of books, fresh greenery, unexpected objets and sculptural accessories. Plus, the play on texture, shape and size adds to the visually appealing vignette.
This white built-in unit helps ground the cacophony of colours of the homeowner’s book collection. Stacking the tomes both vertically and horizontally lends further interest, but a few choice accessories create much-needed restful moments.
PHOTOGRAPHY, MONIC RICHARD, JANIS NICOLAY, BARRY CALHOUN; DESIGN, NICOLA MARC & BETH GOLD, JILLIAN HARRIS, BRITTANY ROBERTSON
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PHOTOGRAPHY, DONNA GRIFFITH; DESIGN, MARGIE DOYLE WHITE
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STYLE
your space These five very different homes are chock full of clever ways to live in peaceful – and tidy! – harmony with the meaningful things you own in minimal square footage. Plus, organizational experts (with a serious celebrity following) give us the lowdown on smart storage solutions, while a dozen Instagrammers motivate us to try one of their cool clutter-conquering ideas.
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Personal objects, antiques and contemporary style beautifully make up this couple’s first home.
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ARTISTS IN RESIDENCE
PERFECTLY IMPERFECT How a textile designer and artist keeps her live-work space looking stylish.
DOWN TO A FINE ART A loft serves as a backdrop for an online art gallery founder’s collection of works.
HAPPY CAMPERS This designer’s sublime urban cabin offers a rustic escape in the heart of the city.
FASHION FORWARD A shop owner brings a touch of Parisian charm to her 1950s suburban home.
HOW TO EDIT YOUR SPACE The best tips and tricks from the duo behind Instagram sensation The Home Edit.
ORGANIZING IDEAS TO STEAL Tidy up your home with these genius ideas spotted on bloggers’ Instagram feeds.
STYLE INSPIRATION Get the look of this retro-inspired laundry room.
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artists in
RE S IDE N C E TEXT CHRISTY WRIGHT | PHOTOGRAPHY JANIS NICOLAY
1,080 SQ. FT. THREE-LEVEL DUPLEX A jewellery designer and a music producer reimagine a rental as their first home with a spirited mix of personal objects, antiques and contemporary style.
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1 SMART THINKING In Leah Belford’s Vancouver duplex, her second-floor studio (which she has since turned into a cozy reading room after moving her growing business, Leah Alexandra Jewelry, to another space) remains clutter-free thanks to clever storage solutions.
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hen the opportunity to purchase the great space you’ve been renting arises, you grab it. And that’s exactly what Leah Belford and Kris Dirksen did. “We were so attached to the home and couldn’t bear the idea of moving,” says Leah, “so when the owner decided to sell, we pulled together an offer and got it!” That “it” is a three-storey, 1,080square-foot duplex in Kits, the local moniker for Vancouver’s vibrant Kitsilano neighbourhood. As new homeowners, the couple was keen to synthesize the space’s design with their needs – so much so, Leah says, that “Kris had the crowbar out the day we closed on the house!” Overall, they wanted to eradicate the dingy yellow walls, dated popcorn ceilings and ’90s builder-quality finishes. “I envisioned a house full of life,” says Leah, “a mix of found objects and contemporary design.” Specifically, they needed to incorporate two home offices – Leah is a jewellery designer and Kris composes music for TV and movies. Keeping their chocolate Lab, Luca, in mind, the couple knew the new finishes needed to be practical, and a lack of storage space (just two tiny cupboards and two
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2 PRETTY CLEVER
A hanger holding washi tape is a handy decorative display.
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In Leah’s office on the third floor, white IKEA shelving units deliver both practical storage and an everchanging lively vignette of books and favourite objects. A vintage bench upholstered in bright pink linen injects a decidedly feminine air, while the gold-leafed pendant light adds a layer of retro glamour.
3 T R AY C H I C Funky trays hold strands of pretty gemstones. “They have to be stored in a single layer to avoid becoming a tangled mess,” says Leah.
4 MIX MASTER A new large picture window in the living room keeps the view to the garden unobstructed and lets in lots of light. A mix of modern furniture and worldly finds, such as the vintage blanket that was picked up on a trip to Buenos Aires and repurposed as a rug, reflects the couple’s eclectic approach to decorating.
Floating cubbies maintain the contemporary feel while providing storage.
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5 H I D E A W AY With space-saving in mind, Leah’s husband, Kris Dirksen, installed a sliding cedar door between the master bedroom and ensuite. An antique armoire holds most of Leah’s clothes; off-season items are stashed in baskets under the bed.
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closets) meant the organ izing solutions had to be savvy. Finally, the modest budget dictated a DIY approach. “We couldn’t afford a contractor,” explains Leah. “But between books and online videos, we discovered you can teach yourself anything. You just need some motivation and a lot of patience.” New doors, floors and windows, as well as a coat of Benjamin Moore’s Simply White throughout, were among the changes, but the biggest contractor-worthy renovation was in the master ensuite. Here, the couple shunned the traditional bathroom vanity for prefab lower kitchen cupboards. “They’re easier to customize because there are more sizing options for higher and wider units than standard bathroom cabinets, which means more room for storage.” In addition to housing toiletries, the cupboards hold extra bedding, blankets and cleaning supplies. Leah had set up her jewellery studio on the second floor and office on the third, but has since moved her business to another location. Kris uses the soundproofed garage as a music space. Like all successful entrepreneurs, they’re considering their next big plan, which in this case is expanding their family. But for now, the home hits all the right notes.
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6 B AT H I N G BEAUTY The skylight illuminates the professional-looking results of the couple’s DIY ensuite reno. Handcrafted by a local woodworker, the ladder is an interesting perch for the bath mat. It stands beside Uma the cow, an oil painting by Leah’s artist cousin.
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perfectly
IMP E RF E C T 1
900 SQ. FT. LIVE-WORK CONDO
Textile designer and artist Lori Harrison is a neat freak living and working in a small space. Here’s how she keeps her home looking stylish.
1 MAD SKILLS
TEXT IRIS BENAROIA PHOTOGRAPHY STACEY BRANDFORD STYLING STACY BEGG
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Lori Harrison’s artistic temperament is evident in her casually chic office. “The white bust is actually my neck – I made it for a university project – and the bare-chested illustration I did in high school,” says the founder of Lori Harrison Art & Home.
extile designer and fine artist Lori Harrison is inspired by imperfection – she once recreated the peeling plaster she saw on a building’s facade in Venice, Calif., on a toss cushion to glamorous effect. But when it comes to her home, Lori is committed to creating the picture of perfection. From the harmonious earthy palette that looks sharp against the white walls to the bespoke accessories, every inch of the 900-square-foot one-bedroom condo she shares with her husband, Michael Clark, is mellow, meaningful and cohesive – key in an open-concept space. When the couple bought the place in 2013, in an intimate, three-storey Art Deco building in an upscale midtown Toronto neighbourhood, they loved the layout of the petite but already renovated apartment. So they used sparsely placed low-slung furniture – some of it designed by Lori herself – and clean contemporary lines to make the small space feel large and to evoke a cultured air. But the condo did need one minor tweak: namely, transforming the den (cut off from the living room by a half-wall) into an office. “In our old place, we had separate working spaces with doors. But
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Clean-lined cabinets house additional art and office supplies.
3 2 W E L L- R E A D “I wanted to colour-coordinate the books in my office, but my husband [Michael Clark] wouldn’t let me,” says Lori. The wire chair is paired with one of her prototype toss cushions.
3 N AT U R A L W O R L D The woodsy details and large fiddleleaf fig tree give the living room of this Toronto home a comfy California feel. Mismatched tables look artsy, organic and relaxed.
Lori’s own artwork brings a soothing quality to the bedroom.
4 4 P E R F E C T PA I R I N G The couple’s tastes – he’s into traditional, she likes contemporary – are established in this hallway vignette, in which a handsome cabinet Michael bought in Cambodia is topped with modern art.
5 CLEAN SWEEP The streamlined bank of cabinets (deep and wide for optimum storage with barely visible hardware) is framed by a sleek Corian countertop and doesn’t read too kitcheny in the open-concept home.
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because this office can’t be entirely hidden away, it has to look super stylish,” says Lori. And luckily Lori, who works from home, is hyper tidy: “To be creative, I need to shut off and be zoned in, and that means having a clutter-free aesthetic.” Mimicking elements already existing in the kitchen, such as warm wood tones, stark white lacquer and straight lines, the couple had shelves and cabinets installed for books and supplies; a wraparound his-and-hers desk connects to the bookcase. The wall opposite the U-shaped desk serves as a revolving art gallery for Lori. “This office has been really great because it’s functional in terms of desk space, and it has this big display area,” she says. Today, tucked out of sight, there are tubs of acrylic paint on the floor and tacked-up papers showing a work-in-progress (inspired by rotting wood, maybe? crumbling pavement?) that might eventually become one of her beguiling abstract toss cushions. And though Lori spends hours on end here, you wouldn’t know it was the site of a busy artist at work. “At the end of each day, I put everything away neatly, even if I’m continuing the project the next day,” she says – ever the perfectionist.
6 BARE MINIMUM No backsplash? No problem. “I kind of like that there isn’t one, because it looks more contemporary,” says Lori of the gorgeously restrained kitchen, with its space-saving built-in walnut dining table that offers extra work surface when needed.
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down to a
F INE A R T A beautiful Montreal loft serves as the ideal backdrop for an online art gallery founder’s expansive collection of works.
780 SQ. FT. OPEN-CONCEPT LOFT
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TEXT BETH HITCHCOCK PHOTOGRAPHY ASHLEY CAPP STYLING NICOLA MARC
1 BIG PICTURE
DESIGN, CREATIVE FLATS, CREATIVEFLATS.COM
Between the bedroom and bathroom sits a chic home office area. The industrial look of the vintage chair and Eames desk is softened with a beautiful piece of underwater photography and an antique Chapman ram’s horn lamp.
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t’s rare for someone to move into a rental flat – a furnished one, at that – and barely change a thing. But that’s exactly what happened when Alessandra Salituri, a globetrotter and the founder of online art gallery Citizen Atelier, went shopping for a Montreal pied-à-terre. “It was the second place I saw on Airbnb, and I felt instantly at home,” she says. “I’ve developed a distinct style that’s very monochromatic, punctuated with blues and blacks, and this space looked like it was designed for me.” Touring the petite place in the city’s Quartier International in person only reinforced her first impression. She loved how the entry’s lacquered cement floor gave way to a diagonal checkerboard-painted one in the kitchen. And then there was the architecture – soaring, sophisticated and inspiring. “With its 11-foot-tall ceiling, the space was the perfect bridge between a Parisian apartment and a New York City loft,” she says. The Creative Flats loft is one of several furnished rental apartments in the historic area owned by the design duo Nathalie Bouchard and Annie Horth. Move-in ready, the space already housed an enviable mix of contemporary pieces and Mid-Century Modern furniture. “All
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The TV becomes less of a focal point when set against a black wall and paired with dark furniture and art.
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2 ARTISTIC VISION Although tenant Alessandra Salituri works as an art dealer, she was enchanted by the gallery wall the flat’s owners, Nathalie Bouchard and Annie Horth, already installed in the living area. “Annie works as an artistic director and fashion stylist, and some of these photos are her collaborations,” says Alessandra. “I love the editorial feel of them.”
3 BALANCING ACT Alessandra leaned two dramatic works of art by photographer and floral designer Ashley Woodson Bailey on either side of the TV to create a pleasing sense of balance.
A floor-to-ceiling black velvet curtain acts as both a backdrop and a space divider.
4 FIRST IMPRESSION
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A vintage wall-mounted unit provides much-needed storage in the front hall. Alessandra used the lower surface for display purposes.
5 AMUSE-BOUCHE “This is definitely not a cookiecutter rental kitchen,” says Alessandra of the modern bistro-style space, which is open to the rest of the loft.
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I had to do to make it my own was bring in some art, family heirlooms and bedding,” says Alessandra. Its ease was ideal for the frequent traveller, who often finds herself in Los Angeles, New York City and parts of Europe looking for new artistic talent. With just 780 square feet and an open layout, the loft presented several storage challenges. A vintage wall-mounted unit in the entryway offers both closed and open storage, but Alessandra had to get creative with other items, using a chest of drawers in the dining area for clothing. Luckily, she’d already done some serious decluttering. “When I moved in here, I tried to pare down and make sure every piece had either beauty or value,” she says. At the top of the must-keep list was her growing collection of art. Renters are often hesitant to hang artwork because it puts too many holes in the walls, but this wasn’t a problem for Alessandra, who prefers to lean her pieces to create a more relaxed vibe. With her business booming, it wasn’t long before this global citizen moved on. But her temporary home left a lasting impression, she says. “I learn so much from other creative people, and Nathalie and Annie fashioned a special space that truly inspired me.”
6 C R E AT I V E S PA R K Alessandra often used the dining table as a workspace; she found it inspiring to look at historic Montreal through the windows across the room. The custom doors are an architectural highlight.
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happy
C A MP E R S Designer Jordy Fagan’s sublime urban cabin offers a rustic escape in the heart of the city. TEXT BETHANY LYTTLE
1,800 SQ. FT. URBAN BUNGALOW 1 G R E AT O U T D O O R S A natural composition quietly pays homage to the outdoors: The wooden coffee table, antique crate and jute pouffe bring in organic elements; the rug and toss cushions introduce hits of graphite and stone hues; and the print above the sofa references misty mornings the homeowners have enjoyed in Algonquin Provincial Park in Ontario.
PHOTOGRAPHY ANGUS FERGUSSON
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DESIGN, COLLECTIVE STUDIO, COLLECTIVE-STUDIO.CA
STYLING MORGAN LINDSAY
s a girl, Jordy Beale spent summers at Camp Walden near Bancroft, Ont. So did a boy named Ben Fagan. Little did they know, one day they would become permanent bunk mates. Now the happily married Fagans share an 1,800-square-foot bungalow in Toronto’s Humewood-Cedarvale neighbourhood that pays tribute to the place where they first met. Jordy – co-owner of the design firm Collective Studio – calls the style “modern cabin,” and it epitomizes her down-to-earth design philosophy in every way. “A home should be cozy, durable and affordable,” she says. “When guests drop by, I want them to feel 100 percent at home.” A happy advocate of slow design, Jordy has accessorized over time, changing and upgrading things as the occasion war rants and budget permits. “Why rush?” she says. “Just have fun when decorating, and take the pressure off. When you can, hang new curtains or buy a new rug.” Like most philosophies, Jordy’s was born of personal experience: “Ben and I were just out of university when we bought this place, so we were totally house-poor.” For two years, the young couple lived with old college furniture, an unfinished basement, a troubled
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Peekaboo! From this vantage point, a bold striped wall presents as graphic art.
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It’s hard to ignore a lion dressed in Renaissance garb. Clever and compelling, the portrait hovers over a sleek console table in the living room. The fringed lambswool stool, which echoes the lion’s ruff, can be pulled out to provide extra seating.
3 INNER CIRCLE Large groups of friends laughing and telling stories well into the night is a common occurrence at Ben and Jordy Fagan’s Toronto home. And while there’s no campfire per se, the sofa and pouffe are arranged in a cozy circle around the coffee table.
4 L U C K Y S TA R
Repositioning the bathroom fixtures lends roominess in lieu of extra square footage.
The couple saved up for two years before transforming the cramped and awkward bathroom. Graphic black and white turn it into an instant classic, while brass fixtures keep it on trend. Storage is at a premium, so the tiled niches come in handy. What’s more, they double as star-studded art.
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5 WORK ORDER In Jordy’s basement home office, a mural depicts a veiled cabin engulfed by alpine fog. The oversized desk and huge bulletin board are a great fit for function-loving Jordy, who likes to spread out when she works.
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bathroom, a closed-off dining room and a dysfunctional kitchen that frustrated Ben, who’s a great cook. Eventually, they managed to save enough money to make their dream changes. A wall between the dining room and kitchen was removed, resulting in a chef-worthy space for Ben, and the basement was transformed to include a spacious home office for Jordy. They also reconfigured the bathroom, flipping the positions of the toilet and tub, which made it possible for the couple to move around without hip-checking each other. The great thing about this urban cabin is that it doesn’t scream “woodsy” – it whispers it. A wall mural depicts fog and forests, an allusion to the canoe trips and hikes the couple took in Ontario’s Algonquin Provincial Park. The textures include raw wood surfaces and woven baskets. And the colours are quiet: whites, blacks, light oak and natural tones, along with green, a hue Jordy considers a neutral. The look couldn’t be more fitting for a pair who loves nature and has an affinity for the camp that’s still a big part of their lives. Though the couple has since moved (and welcomed twins Quincy and Breaker), Jordy notes that no house is ever “done” – and hers is no exception.
6 MASTER CHEF Ben is an outstanding cook, so he needed a place he could let his skills shine. Removing a wall and replacing the unstylish tile countertops was a crucial ďŹ rst step in polishing the kitchen, while the peninsula, open shelving and custom cabinetry provide ample storage.
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fashion
F OR W A RD
1,800 SQ. FT. TWO-STOREY HOUSE
A shop owner brings a touch of Parisian charm to her 1950s home. TEXT BETHANY LYTTLE PHOTOGRAPHY ROBIN STUBBERT
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1 UNDER COVER Framed French postcards and ever-changing shelf displays keep the light-filled workspace in the dormer looking fresh. “I couldn’t part with this desk or the old chair, so I updated the hardware and added the pink throw,” says homeowner Michele Lee.
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ichele Lee, owner of a chic little clothing boutique in Guelph, Ont., agrees with the truism that Paris is always a good idea. “The first time I went to Paris, it was springtime. The blossoms were out, and pink petals were everywhere. I walked around for four days, and there was a smile on my face the whole time,” she says. Michele was drawn to Parisian style long before her first jaunt to the City of Light. “The architecture, the romantically imperfect furnishings, the fresh flower stalls – I love it all,” she says. And this passion is reflected in the 1,800square-foot home she shares with her husband, Sean, and their dog, Louis. Sure, the 1950s abode lacks an atelier, weathered shutters and a Juliet balcony, but inside, it’s as pretty as Paris on a spring day. What attracted Michele to the house nearly 20 years ago was the vintage built-in cabinet at the end of a narrow hallway. “It reminded me of one in my greatgrandmother’s home, and no word of a lie, I actually bought this place because of that one cabinet,” she says with a laugh. After moving in, she painted the walls white and added in wisps of pink. “It’s a colour that inspires me creatively.”
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2 TRUE REFLECTION
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The vintage cabinet, painted a high-gloss black, houses a selection of special dishes.
“This room has had a million different purposes,” says Michele. “Currently, it’s a library.” She designed the whole space around the mirror, which reminds her of Paris. Vintage chairs are adorned with cozy sheepskin throws, while a rattan stool keeps things warm and light.
3 RESTING SPOT The daybed in Michele’s studio is covered in a French ticking-style fabric and accented with soft-hued throws and toss cushions. The wooden mirror frame and rattan side table were spray-painted black to ground the space.
The built-in drawers and cupboard – originally dark wood – were painted white to help lighten up the room.
4 REAL SIMPLE “The bedroom’s not fussy. Texture, not colour, is the emphasis,” says Michele. The exception is the headboard. “It’s old, but recovering it in blue velvet gave it new life.”
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5 O N R O TAT I O N Michele changes the living room gallery wall all the time. “Originally, there was lots of colour, but right now I’m in a black and white phase,” she explains. The round mirror is playful and unexpected. “Louis, our French bulldog, loves the living room. No place is off limits. He’s the king,” she adds.
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Along with pink, Michele incorporated light pieces, such as linen and rattan accessories, to complement the shade. “Rattan’s great because it looks vintage but isn’t heavy,” she says. Michele refers to herself as a “display person at heart,” but she’s quick to mention that her mom was an interior designer. “She made such a strong impression on me as I watched her work,” says Michele. “She also had a great eye for fashion. We’d go shopping, and then lay out all the new pieces on the bed, then we’d create outfits together.” To this day, Michele believes an outfit can influence a room’s decor and vice versa. For instance, a sparkly dress might inspire the addition of something glittery to a room. If these spaces make you wish for a little Paris at home, Michele recommends adopting a wistful and playful attitude. “Fill your home with things that make you swoon,” she says. And if you like something dated, use it anyway. “I’ve been repainting one of my mirrors for more than 10 years!” she adds. “And I have a crazy ugly office chair that’s so comfortable – I disguise it with a pink throw. When I see it, it makes me smile. The day that stops happening, I’ll replace it.”
6 C U R AT E D COLLECTION Featuring hits of black and gold, the mostly white living room has thoughtful touches, such as a camera case that once belonged to Michele’s grandfather. The nailhead-trimmed chair was an antiques market find. Black appears as an accent on the sconces by the fireplace and a framed photograph on the mantel.
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HOW TO EDIT YOUR SPACE The best tips from the duo behind Instagram sensation The Home Edit.
Whether it’s a New Year’s resolution to become a minimalist or part of a major seasonal sweep, a good deep clean doesn’t have to be a chore. Enter The Home Edit, a Nashvillebased home organization service founded by friends Clea Shearer and Joanna Teplin that does everything from decluttering to organizing to designing stylishly functional spaces. (The team is also a go-to for celebrities.) Needless to say, the two pals are neat freaks in the best possible way, and with that comes loads of wisdom for creating calm amid chaos. Here’s how it works: The Home Edit team goes into clients’ houses and takes measurements, paying close attention to
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disorganized hot spots (namely, closet floors, pantries and junk drawers). Then there’s the editing process, wherein the team takes everything out of cabinets, drawers and closets, lays it out on the floor and helps get rid of what isn’t needed. They make piles of related items to create an organization system that makes sense for the home. Last, they put the remaining items back into the space, taking extra time to colour-code and label everything with cursive handwriting for an elegant finishing touch. The Home Edit also offers a DIY option for people who want to do the work themselves with a little virtual guidance. Here, the duo shares totally easy tricks to get you started.
PHOTOGRAPHY, COURTESY THE HOME EDIT; TEXT, AMANDA ETTY
JESSIE JAMES DECKER’S COLOUR-CODED CLOSET
M A N DY MO OR E’S CL O SE T
W H AT’S T H E F I R ST T H I NG TO D O W H E N BEGI N N I NG A N OR GA N I Z I NG PR O J EC T ? No matter what the project is, the first step is to evaluate the space and eliminate things you don’t need. It’s a lot easier to see the full scope of what you’re working with when you remove everything and group items into categories on the floor or on a table in front of you. With a pared-down pile, you can decide on a functional system that fits your space and lifestyle.
W H AT A R E YOU R FAVOU R I T E OR GA N I Z I NG TO OL S? LARGE BASKETS Among the most practical and versatile items in a home, large baskets can store toys, blankets, laundry – you name it. They’re also our favourite tools for organizing things you use often but don’t want on display. ACRYLIC TRAYS Use trays to create separate compartments in drawers so smaller items don’t get lost in the mix. STORAGE BOXES They’re perfect for sentimental items like photos, school papers and other keepsakes. Since they come in a variety of colours, you can categorize and label each box for easy access. LAZY SUSANS These are some of our go-to organizational tools, especially for kitchen counters. Placing one next to the stove allows you to corral all your everyday cooking items and clean up the countertop more quickly. We also like to utilize them in the pantry for oils, spices and spreads and in the bathroom for beauty products. GLASS CANISTERS These are great for holding everything from grains to coffee pods to laundry detergent. OVER-THE-DOOR ORGANIZERS They’re ideal for those who are short on space and need to free up shelf and cabinet real estate. We especially like the Elfa system from The Container Store.
AN ORGANIZED PANTRY
IS T H E R E A N Y T H I NG YOU USE I N A N U N E XPEC T E D WAY?
ACRYLIC MAGAZINE FOLDERS Use them to keep handbags upright and in their own compartments. SHELF RISERS Add more space to a cabinet by using these as a DIY storage system.
W H AT A R E SOM E OF T H E OR GA N I Z AT ION SYST EMS YOU L I K E TO P U T I N PL AC E? W E K NOW YOU’R E N U TS FOR L A BEL L I NG!
L AU R E N C ON R A D’S GI F T-W R A PPI NG S TAT ION
Yes, labelling is one of our signature moves. And so is colour-coding according to ROYGBIV (red, orange, yellow, green, blue, indigo, violet). These aren’t simply aesthetically pleasing systems but also keys to long-term maintenance. When everything has a visible home, items are easier to find. Plus, these systems act as guilt mechanisms – it’s so obvious when something is in the wrong spot.
W H AT’S YOU R BEST A DV IC E FOR GE T T I NG R I D OF ST U F F ? đƫƫ "ƫ5+1ƫ +*Ě0ƫ(+2!ƫ%0ƫ+.ƫ*!! ƫ%0Čƫ+.ƫ$ 2!*Ě0ƫ0+1 $! ƫ%0ƫ%*ƫ ƫ year, then it’s time to make a decision about whether to toss or donate. đƫƫ +.ƫ0$+/!ƫ%0!)/ƫ5+1ƫ *Ě0ƫ%))! % 0!(5ƫ ! % !ƫ+*Čƫ/0 5ƫ%*ƫ the groove and move on to the next piece. Come back to these items in the same editing session – not at a later date. đƫƫ "ƫ5+1ƫ *Ě0ƫ, .0ƫ3%0$ƫ/+)!0$%*#Čƫ/0+.!ƫ%0Čƫ 10ƫ +*Ě0ƫ(!0ƫ%0ƫ take up valuable everyday real estate.
HOW D O YOU R EC OM M E N D HOM EOW N E R S K E E P T H E I R S PAC E S OR DE R LY ONC E T H E Y’ V E BE E N OR GA N I Z E D?
T H E K I DS’ PL AY R O OM I N MOL LY SI MS’S HOUSE
The key to organizational success is ongoing maintenance. Once you have your system in place, it’s as simple as putting things back where they belong. If the system isn’t working for you anymore, change it up so it does. That’s the reason we love using categories, labels and colourcoding. We also recommend designating time every few weeks for a quick edit of your spaces.
FIND MORE ORGANIZING INSPIRATION AND ADVICE IN THE HOME EDIT: A GUIDE TO ORGANIZING AND REALIZING YOUR HOUSE GOALS BY CLEA SHEARER AND JOANNA TEPLIN (CLARKSON POTTER, $34).
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BUS Y PH IL I PP S’S PA N T RY
BUS Y PH IL I PP S’S PA N T RY.
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ORGANIZING ideas to steal 1
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COOL COLOURS
L O V E LY L A B E L S
Elsie Larson of A Beautiful Mess arranges her book collection by hue for a rainbowbright display.
Free printable hand-lettered labels from The Creativity Exchange beautify this bathroom.
@ABEAUTIFULMESS
EXCHANGE
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@THECREATIVITY-
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C R E AT I V E C A N D L E S
PERFECT PULLOUTS
The blogger behind Thirteen Thoughts proves empty glass candle jars (these are from Diptyque and Jo Malone) make marvellous makeup holders.
At Sunny Side Up headquarters, plastic laundry bins are hidden but accessible inside drawers. @ERIN_ SUNNYSIDEUP
@PAULA13T
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D E L I C I O U S D R AW E R S
S M A RT S U P P L I E S
Drawers filled with glass mugs and coffee pods stored in clear plastic bins make Kris Jarrett’s morning routine easy-peasy.
A wall of shelves, hooks and containers helps keep the crafts coming in Sarah Rivero Khandjian’s garage-turnedhome studio.
@DRIVENBYDECOR
@SARAHHEARTS
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We all want to master our messes, and sometimes we just need a little inspiration to get things in motion. So we turned to the most obvious place brimming with brilliant solutions: our Instagram feed! Here are 12 ideas we love for keeping a home neat and tidy – we can’t wait to get started.
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POSH PEGBOARD
PRETTY PINS
This stylish DIY pot rack by selftaught carpenter Jen Woodhouse is sheer spacesaving genius.
In Jennifer Flores’s home office, a decorative yet practical bulletin board provides an ever-changing art display.
@JENWOODHOUSE
@RAMBLINGRENO
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T I DY TOYS
GENEROUS GIFTS
A toy storage unit with pullout bins is given a playful touch with black sprinkle-look decals thanks to Mandy Milks’s creative thinking.
An incredible gift closet organized by dream team Clea Shearer and Joanna Teplin features categorized bins and door racks for gift wrap.
@MANDYMILKS_
@THEHOMEEDIT
CREATIVE
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CLEAN CLOSET
FRESH FOOD
The creator of fashion and beauty blog Elle Mae puts IKEA’s Pax wardrobe system to the organizational test in her closet revamp.
The pair of pals behind Classy Clutter keeps pantry essentials visible in clear containers on spacious shelves. @CLASSYCLUTTER
@ELLEMAEBLOG
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style I N S P I R AT I O N We love TV personality and designer Jillian Harris’s charming laundry room. Here’s how you can create a similar look in your own hard-working space.
MIX CABINETS, DRAWERS AND OPEN SHELVES TO MAXIMIZE STORAGE POTENTIAL.
OUTFIT THE ROOM ACCORDING TO HOW YOU USE IT. HERE, A GIFTWRAPPING STATION FITS THE BILL.
ACCESSORIZE WITH NOSTALGIC METAL LAUNDRY HAMPER.
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PHOTOGRAPHY, JANIS NICOLAY; DESIGN, JILLIAN HARRIS
ELEMENTS LIKE A
Simple Meals, Vibrant Flavours
125 Tested-Till-Perfect Recipes
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The region’s cuisines celebrate fresh vegetables, legumes, seafood and olives, making Mediterranean cooking a healthful choice for everyone.
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