We all want our homes to be neat and pristine just like the pages of a glossy magazine, but let’s face it, there aren’t many of us who can say our houses always looks like this (even though we might pretend it does!).
If you’re always scrambling to tidy the house last minute before visitors arrive, or forever procrastinating clearing out your closet or pantry cupboards, you’re in luck. Japanese organising expert Marie Kondo has inspired a new wave of organising enthusiasts through the Netflix series based on her best-selling book ‘The Life-changing magic of tidying up’.
Designed for even the most un-organised of people, the series is full of valuable tips and advice for those wanting to dip their toes into the realm of simple, organised living, no matter how bad your hoarding might be. Aside from Marie being as cute as a button and so polished in presentation, she teaches us some valuable lessons that can be applied to most rooms in the house: always sort by category (not by room), fold your clothes when you can (don’t hang), and use boxes (think repurposed shoe boxes, tissue boxes or even milk cartons).
Marie is also well-known for her folding method – with a distinct style for folding clothes, she recommends standing objects or items of clothing upright in boxes instead of stacking – this way you can easily scan and see what items you have rather than rummaging through piles of clothing or clutter.
However, being organised like Kondo doesn’t mean you need to compromise on style. We round up our tops picks of super-stylish storage solutions inspired by her methods that will not only keep your belongings tidy and organised but will look fabulous too.
1. Tosca Storage Basket, Yamakazi
Japanese brand Yamakazi produce a stylish range of functional homewares with ‘special attention to simplicity, practicality, quality and saving space’. With ethos that aligns with Kondo, the Tosca Storage Basket is their most versatile – use it to store everything from pantry ingredients to clothing, books, bathroom accessories and kids toys.
2. Vitra Toolbox, Citta
The Vitra Toolox by Citta is a modern twist on the classic toolbox – so practical but now oh so stylish. Use for office supplies, cutlery and condiments for alfresco dining or even cleaning products if you fancy.
3. Box Box Desktop, Hay
The Hay Box Box Desktop is a simple product but one done so well. The set of stylish boxes look great displayed in the office, on shelves or in the closet and come in a variety of trendy colours and patterns. Ideal for storing documents, photographs, stationery or jewellery, the boxes look great stacked or on their own.
4. Folded Shelves, Muuto
Muuto is a Scandinavian design company that’s characterized by ‘aesthetics, functionality, craftsmanship and an honest expression’ – a perfect fit for anyone embracing minimalism in style. Designed to look like delicate folded paper, the shelves are ideal for most rooms in the house or office and ideal for notes, magazines, mail or hanging utensils, keys, bags or coats.
5. PUDDA Basket, Ikea
With its felt texture and brass accents, the Pudda basket by homewares giant Ikea is a staple for storing bathroom accessories, books and general bits and bobs around the house. And at only around $15, you can afford to splash out and get a few.
