Storage buying guide

Getting your house organised can make such a difference to how your day-to-day life feels. Less stressful, more focused, less clutter. There are lots of options of storage solutions to best suit any space or home. 

string shelving system

More headspace

Now the work-home-life lines are becoming more blurred and with more of us working from home than ever, having the right storage solutions is an essential part of the new hybrid life, whatever the size of space you have.

Questions to ask yourself

Where is the storage to go?
How much space do you have and do you want it built in or free standing?
What is it you need to store? Do you want to be able to store items away or have them on display?
Open or closed storage?
What style would fit in with the decoration in the rest of your house?
Does the size of storage look in proportion to the room or space?

What are the Storage options?

Shelving

Shelving can be a good solution in any space from smaller spaces to larger ones. For displaying items such as ceramics or ornaments a small shelf or shelves will suffice or a large system for a bigger room will make the most of the space for storage.

string shelving system - kitchen
case arca box

What shelving is perfect for small spaces?

Case Arca wall box, keep your space clutter free with the elegant Case Arca Wall Box designed by David Irwin. Crafted in solid oak or walnut, this practical piece features a mirror, shelf, storage compartments and a magnetic noticeboard for placing those important reminders.

Whats the best standing shelving?

HAY Woody is a free-standing shelving system which combines the timeless elegance of a solid, soap treated 25mm oak frame with contemporary powder coated steel shelves. Woody comes in a range of sizes and compositions to suit your requirements and can be mixed and matched for a unique look. 

hay woody shelving
hay string system

String for flexibility

String shelving system, a timeless design from Nils Strinning includes floor panels, pocket shelves,  shelves, cabinets, magazine shelves and desks.  String is a thoughtful addition to most spaces.

Cabinets

Cabinets are perfect to keep lots of items organised and shut away behind doors and drawer fronts.

There are many different cabinet sizes, styles and variations available, there will be the one that’s perfect for your needs.

punt tactile sideboard

Timeless design


Punt Tactile is a sideboard which is simplistic and elegant in design. Tactile has no handles, a simple touch initiates the opening of a drawer or door

usm office storage

Flexible design classic


USMcomes in various sizes and options, these can be added to at any time and are available in some amazing colours

finn juhl sideboard

Iconic design

 

House of Finn Juhl, this iconic sideboard was originally designed by Finn Juhl in 1955 for Danish furniture manufacturer Bovirke. With a stunning walnut frame, the contemporary design creates a stylish storage area and surface space to display and organise decorative accessories and personal belongings. The sideboard is a luxurious representation of craftsmanship and iconic modernism that offers timeless design.

string shelving for the bathroom

Whats the perfect solution for bathroom design?


With its mirrored cabinet door and towel hanging you don't need anything else than String. This configuration includes a set of 3 organisers in a variety of sizes that attach to the side panels where you wish.

Hooks, racks and stands

It's often the details that can make a big difference. Buying smartly to increase storage in halls and rooms can really stand out as well as provide functional ways to live better every day. To help order cluttered spaces in our home, we can use hooks racks or stands.  Hooks, to organise your outdoor coats in the hallway, keep shoes easy to access and sorted or perhaps to hang towels in the bathroom. Functional yet stylish options to solve the problem.

vitra hang it all

Hooks

VITRA HANG IT ALL

Vitra hang it all, used instead of simple hooks, these brightly-coloured wooden spheres were aimed at encouraging children to hang up "all their things". Because the distance between the spheres always remains the same, Hang it all can be extended as required and is a cheerful alternative to boring clothes-hooks, not only for children's rooms but also hallways, bedrooms

string shoe shelving

Racks

STRING SHOE RACK

String shoe rack to organise your footwear, get your shoes easily accessible and sorted in style in your hallway.The Shoe shelf is made of metal and comes in 3 different colours and 2 sizes

scp agnes side table

Stands

SCP AGNES SIDE TABLE

SCP Agnes Side table is a low three-shelf version of the design, ideal as a beside or for small hallways. It is made from solid oak or walnut with veneered shelves. Agnes side Table comes "out of the box" as a solid one piece item, with no assembly required.

Can storage be adjustable?

Adjustable storage options will allow for change, whether you have kids that are growing up and your storage needs change or youre moving house and need your storage to adapt to your new space, adjustable storage can be the answer. It can be added too or reconfigured as you require.

Colourful flexibilty

USM Haller modular furniture originated in 1963 and has become a classic in terms of design and functionality. Perfect for the home or office, USM Haller furniture remains flexible in its design offering infinite configurations with the added option of doors, drawers, filing systems, wheels and a multitude of internal fittings.

usm storage
string shelving wardrobe

How to optimise your storage?

String shelving is simple to assemble and the shelves can be easily moved and re-positioned as your needs change. Your belongings are kept in place by the side panels, with shelves of different depths that can be combined in the same unit to make truly unique system to you. When more shelf space is needed, simply add an additional side panel and some shelves. This flexibility and the minimalistic timeless design is the reason why String still attracts so much praise after 60 years in production.

How to install?

Take time to consider where the storage is going to go, if its shelving that will be fixed to the wall consider the type of wall, whether its flat and what weight the shelf with its contents will be. Always best to check with an expert first. Most of the modular storage requires some assembly so decide whether you’ll be able to do this yourself or need help.

usm sideboard white

FAQS

Storage

What should I think about before choosing storage furniture for my home?

Start with how you actually use the space. Think about what needs storing, how often you access it, and whether you prefer open display or hidden storage. Measure the room carefully including skirting boards, radiators and door openings so your chosen piece fits comfortably without overwhelming the space.

What’s the difference between open and closed storage and which is best?

Open storage (such as shelves) is perfect for books, objects you enjoy looking at, and items you reach for daily. 

Closed storage (cupboards, drawers) keeps clutter out of sight and maintains a calm, tidy look.

Most homes benefit from a mixture of both open storage adds personality, while closed storage keeps the room feeling serene and organised.

How do I choose the right storage furniture for a small room?

Prioritise height over width: tall, slim units maximise capacity without taking up much floor space. Choose pieces with multiple functions like sideboards that double as display surfaces or benches that offer hidden storage. In tight spaces, clean lines and lighter finishes can help the room feel more open.
How can I keep my storage looking organised instead of cluttered?

Give each item a home. Use drawers for small objects, shelves for items you use often, and cupboards for things you want out of sight. Storage boxes, trays and baskets add structure and help maintain order. A quick once-a-month tidy stops clutter from creeping back in.

Can storage furniture also act as a statement piece?

Absolutely. A sideboard, shelving system or cabinet can anchor a room just as effectively as a sofa or dining table. Look for pieces with strong silhouettes, beautiful craftsmanship or distinctive materials they bring character while remaining practical. Is it better to invest in one large storage piece or several smaller ones?It depends on your layout. A single, well-proportioned piece can simplify a room and create a sense of calm. Multiple smaller pieces offer flexibility and can adapt as your needs change. Many homes benefit from a combination: one main storage anchor, supported by carefully chosen smaller pieces.

Do I need custom storage, or will freestanding pieces work?

Freestanding furniture suits most homes it’s flexible, easy to move and can evolve with your style. Built-in storage is useful for awkward spaces, alcoves or open-plan rooms where you want a seamless look. If you value versatility, freestanding pieces often make the most sense.

How do I choose storage that works with the rest of my interior style?

Look for consistency in tone, material and silhouette. For a cohesive look, match wood types or metal finishes with existing furniture. For contrast, combine clean-lined storage with softer, more organic pieces. Storage should feel like part of the room, not an afterthought.

What’s the best way to future-proof my storage choices?

Choose designs that don’t rely on trends: simple lines, quality materials, and neutral tones. Opt for modular or flexible systems that can grow with you, like USM and String shelving and invest in pieces you’ll still love in ten years. Quality craftsmanship always outlives fast furniture.

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