Your home is more than just a place to live; it’s where memories are made and peace is found. By combining organizational strategies with thoughtful design, you can create a home that’s functional, beautiful, and adaptable to your evolving needs. Professional organizers like Leigh Achenbach from Suddenly Simple Organizing and interior designer Jamie Taylor from J Taylor Designs share their expertise for tackling your home’s needs—inside and out.
Decluttering: Start Small, Think Big
Leigh Achenbach’s Expert Tips
The idea of decluttering can feel overwhelming, but breaking it down into manageable steps is key. Start with a single category in one room, such as books or kitchen gadgets, and work through items systematically. “Sorting like items together and addressing practical things first will build your confidence,” Leigh explains. Focusing on items that are less sentimental helps ease the process, while tackling one category at a time ensures you stay focused and make real progress.
Decluttering is not just about getting rid of things; it’s about finding what truly adds value to your life and giving it the space it deserves. Leigh encourages her clients to think about the emotional weight of items and how decluttering can create mental clarity and peace. "When you let go of what no longer serves you, you make room for what does," she says. This mindset shift can turn a daunting task into an empowering experience. Consider starting with non-sentimental categories like paperwork or unused kitchen gadgets, as these are easier to assess objectively.
Maintaining organization over time requires consistent effort. “Regularly assess if your belongings still serve you,” Leigh advises. For spaces used less frequently, like the attic, annual decluttering might suffice. In contrast, high-traffic areas like closets may need attention multiple times a year. Labels are a game-changer for keeping the family accountable and maintaining order.
When organizing small spaces, maximize unused areas. “Look for vertical space, walls, or the back of cabinet doors for storage solutions,” Leigh says. Remember to declutter first—you may discover that having less is all you need to create the space you desire. Simple changes, like adding hooks, shelves, or stackable bins, can significantly improve functionality without adding clutter. Small tweaks, when paired with consistent habits, can make a lasting difference in how your home feels and functions.
Design with Purpose: Aesthetic Meets Function
Jamie Taylor’s Practical Advice
Balancing functionality and aesthetics is especially important in hardworking spaces like mudrooms and pantries. These areas, traditionally utilitarian, can now become design statements.
In mudrooms, consider built-in cubbies and lockers for organization, and enhance the look with cohesive cabinetry, elegant hardware, and soft-close features. Jamie recommends adding a bench with storage underneath for convenience and a touch of luxury. "The right design can make even the busiest spaces feel calm and beautiful," she notes. Adding personal touches like stylish baskets or decorative hooks can also create a welcoming vibe.
Similarly, pantries are evolving into “back kitchens,” housing not just food but also appliances like coffee makers or even extra refrigerators. Jamie emphasizes the importance of blending finishes, cabinetry, and hardware with the main kitchen to maintain a unified design. Glass cabinet doors, lighting, and stylish backsplashes can elevate a pantry from purely functional to stunning.
These design choices reflect a growing trend: treating every room as an extension of your personal style. Whether it’s a mudroom, pantry, or laundry room, thoughtful design ensures these spaces work hard without compromising on beauty.
Future-Proofing Your Home
Planning for the future ensures your home evolves with your needs. Jamie suggests incorporating universal design principles, such as zero-threshold showers, wide doorways, and main-floor bedrooms. “These features are not only practical but also stylish,” she says. Other considerations include storm rooms for safety and flexible spaces that can adapt as families grow or priorities shift.
Material selection also plays a role in long-term maintenance. Durable options, like quartz countertops or fiber cement siding, reduce the need for frequent repairs. “Choosing high-quality, low-maintenance materials pays off in the long run,” Jamie advises. For example, quartz resists stains and scratches better than marble, while natural stone tiles age gracefully and require minimal upkeep.
Beyond materials, future-proofing involves anticipating changes in lifestyle. Jamie highlights the importance of multipurpose rooms, which can serve as home offices, guest bedrooms, or play areas as needs evolve. "Designing with flexibility in mind ensures your home stays functional and relevant," she explains.
Even outdoor spaces can benefit from future-proofing. Features like low-maintenance landscaping, durable decking materials, and covered patios create inviting, long-lasting areas for relaxation and entertainment. By making thoughtful choices today, homeowners can save time and money while enjoying a home that grows with them.
By combining organization, thoughtful design, and smart planning, you can create a home that works for you today and for years to come. Every decision, big or small, contributes to building a sanctuary that reflects your values and supports your lifestyle.
Quick Decluttering Tips
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Start Small: Tackle a single drawer or shelf. Once you start, it will be easy to find other projects to take on.
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Sort First: Group similar items to see what you have. Organizing is always a good place to start.
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Label Everything: Labels ensure every item has a home.
“Future-proofing your home is about creating a space that evolves with you while reflecting your style.” —Jamie Taylor