13 Living Room Storage Ideas
Storage is a crucial part of any effective room design. But while some living spaces include adequate storage in the form of cabinetry, closets, and more, others rely entirely on creative design for organization. When it comes to the latter, the average living room is a perfect example.
Few living rooms come with built-in storage solutions. Instead, the best way to boost the available storage space is to invest in multi-purpose furniture or custom remodeling.
Not sure where to start? Keep reading for the top living room storage ideas that will prove just how easy it is to turn the average family room into a well-organized hangout space.
Contents
1. Transform Your Living Room with a Closet
A living room closet offers a discrete yet spacious storage solution. Install shelves and hanging rods at different heights to accommodate a variety of items, from books to blankets. To keep the area organized, use labeled bins and baskets. Frosted or mirrored closet doors can add a touch of style while maintaining a clutter-free appearance.
2. Maximize Space with a Cube Shelf
Cube shelves are versatile storage units that can be used to display decor or store items. They can be arranged horizontally or vertically, fitting into various spaces. Use cube bins to store small items neatly, and leave some cubes open for decorative pieces. This modular approach allows for easy reconfiguration as storage needs change.
3. Organize with a Classic Bookcase
A bookcase is not just for books; it can serve as a display for collectibles, photo frames, and plants. Adjustable shelves offer flexibility in accommodating different sized items. For a cleaner look, consider using baskets or decorative boxes on lower shelves to hide clutter.
4. Utilize Corner Space with Shelves
Corner shelves make use of often underutilized space in living rooms. They provide ample storage without consuming much floor area. These corner shelves are ideal for storing books and displaying small plants or ornaments, making them a functional and aesthetic addition.
5. Enhance Walls with Floating Shelves
Floating shelves add a modern touch to living room walls and are excellent for displaying decorative items. They can be installed at various heights to create visual interest. Use them to showcase picture frames, small plants, or unique trinkets, keeping the living room organized and stylish.
6. Create Space with Recessed Wall Shelves
Recessed wall shelves are built into the wall, saving floor space while offering a sleek storage solution. They are perfect for small living rooms, as they don’t protrude into the living area. These shelves can be used to display books, art pieces, or even small electronic devices.
7. Go Modern with Backless Shelves
Backless shelves offer a light, airy feel and can be accessed from both sides, making them ideal as room dividers. They allow light to pass through, which helps maintain an open feel in the room. Use them to store books, display art, or keep everyday items handy.
8. Tidy Up with Basket Storage
Baskets are a practical and attractive storage option. They can be placed on shelves, under coffee tables, or in corners to store a variety of items from magazines to toys. Choose baskets in materials and colors that complement the room’s decor for a cohesive look.
9. Innovate with a Repurposed Ladder Shelf
A repurposed ladder shelf adds a rustic charm to the living room. Lean an old ladder against the wall and use the rungs to hang blankets or display small items. For added stability, attach it securely to the wall. This creates a unique storage feature with minimal effort.
10. Dual-Use a Closet Trunk for Storage
Transform a closet trunk into a multifunctional storage piece. Place it in a corner or against a wall and use it to store seldom-used items like seasonal decorations or extra cushions. It can also double as a side table or additional seating when needed.
11. Choose a Coffee Table with Shelving
A coffee table with open shelving beneath provides easy-to-access storage for books, magazines, or small decorative items. This functional piece keeps everyday items within reach while maintaining a tidy look. Choose a style that complements your living room’s aesthetic.
12. Streamline with Enclosed TV Cabinets
Enclosed TV wall cabinets are a sleek way to store media and related accessories. They hide wires and clutter, maintaining a neat appearance. Look for cabinets with adjustable shelves to fit different sized items, and consider doors that slide or fold to save space.
13. Build Your Own Wooden Crate Shelf
Create a unique and customizable storage solution with DIY wooden crate shelves. Stack and secure crates in a configuration that suits your space. Paint or stain them to match your room’s decor. They’re perfect for storing books, toys, or crafting supplies in an accessible yet organized manner.
Living Room Storage FAQs
Unfortunately, there’s no correct answer to this question. But a good rule of thumb is to always have more storage space than you do inventory. (In this case, “inventory” simply refers to items that need to be stored!)
This also means that adding more storage space isn’t always the solution. If your home contains too much stuff, no amount of drawers, shelves, or cupboards will suffice.
Alcoves and built-in shelving are two of the most efficient uses of space possible in a living room. However, these architectural elements are often associated with vintage homes.
Built-in shelves are not inherently outdated, even if the concept is an old trend. Instead, how you style your built-in storage will determine if it looks frumpy or contemporary.
A fresh coat of paint or wood stain can breathe new life into an original set of built-in shelves. The items you store on the shelves can also play a role in how they fit into your living room design as a whole.