Organizational Tips From an Expert

My organizational philosophy is to bring together the functionality of a space with an aesthetically pleasing environment. I love to blend organization with the interior design of a home.

I have two secret strategies that you can start applying now (and they cost $0).

The most important low-lift way to organize a closet will be to purge. Why do we need to keep a blouse that we do not like? Or doesn’t fit us? Or we don’t feel comfortable wearing it? Side note: Read up on our favorite sites to sell pre-loved pieces online.

A second way will be to fold your clothes using the file folding method. The advantages of this method are that you see absolutely everything you have at a glance and you will end up having more space in your drawers.

Buy for the space you have. Purge and then avoid overbuying going forward. You can also implement systems to make the most out of the space. For example, in cabinets you can add shelf risers, hooks to hold mugs, and wall mount organizers to use the vertical space.

For closets, I swear by having uniform velvet hangers and Ikea Skubb dividers. As for kitchens and pantries, I never underestimate the power of a Lazy Susan, as well as clear bins, canisters, and shelf risers.

To sum it up in just one word: PEACE.

In order to have a long-lasting organized home, it requires some work. I like to use this analogy: When we want to lose weight, we need to change our eating habits. It can’t be a temporary cleanse or diet. The same thing needs to happen with our space. Each and every day we need to do our part to maintain our systems and keep things organized. Spend some time in the mornings and before bed putting things away where they belong. Make sure that every item has a home in your house. And, continuously audit your clutter zones: closets, cabinets, etc.

I always tell my clients to display their most sentimental pieces. If you love it, try to find a place where you can appreciate it. Even if it doesn’t function, it still serves the purpose of bringing you happiness in your space.

Secondly, don’t be afraid to use sentimental pieces. After my grandmother passed away, I inherited beautiful placemats, which I love to use. It reminds me of her and always brings me joy.

If you can’t use or display the piece, store it in a “memory box.” This is a special place to store sentimental items that you just can’t part with. (We all have them!)

I always recommend following the washing instructions closely. Dry clean and hand wash as needed. And, if it no longer works for you, you can always give pre-loved pieces to someone else in your life who will wear and appreciate them.