3 Strategic Organization Solutions for Your ADU
Limited space in your ADU means you need highly effective storage and organization solutions. Whether your guests are family or friends, or someone renting out the space, creating an environment that feels spacious but also has all the necessities for a relaxing stay, means they will be happy with their stay. Simple, practical storage and organization solutions could take your ADU from cluttered and confined to nice and neat!
Below are my top 3 tips for making the most of your small space
Tip #1: Curate Kitchen Accessories for Ease
The Kitchen: This is where using specific organizing products can make a big impact on saving space and containing all the clutter.
Some of our favorite tips for small kitchens:
Use smaller appliances. Maybe an apartment-sized fridge or a smaller microwave would be the better choice. No one will be cooking 6-course meals in the space ;)
Add in a portable kitchen island or other storage. A cart with extra storage shelves or a butcher block island on wheels could both be great options. This way it can be rolled out of the way, or used when needed.
Don't forget the drawer organizers. When you're short on space, every inch counts. Using drawer organizers means you keep things tidy and it's easy to find what you're looking for (i.e. happy guests)
Forget the dish drying rack. Truth be told...I don't even like them in a LARGE kitchen! I think they are an unnecessary source of visual clutter. Using a flat drying mat takes up less counter space, and when you're done, it's easy to fold up and tuck away under the sink. Then you have your clean countertop free!
Tip #2: Build Vertically to Maximize Usable Space
Use that open vertical space!
Some of our favorite ways to take advantage of this usable space:
Build bookcases and cabinets up the ceiling to maximize storage space
Use the back of the door for hanging hooks or installing a storage system like The Container Store's Elfa door storage
Tight on closet storage? Hang hooks on the inside walls of the closet for more usable clothing storage
WANT TO TACKLE SOME ORGANIZING ON YOUR OWN?
GRAB OUR STEP-BY-STEP GUIDE WHICH WILL TEACH YOU
HOW TO ORGANIZE LIKE A PRO!
Tip #3: Select Pieces with Helpful, Hidden Storage
Hidden storage: our favorite tip for small spaces and ADUs...use furniture with hidden storage. Here are some of our favorite innovative ways to sneak in more storage:
Ottomans and sofas with storage compartments. These are great spaces to store blankets and extra pillows, or perhaps some games or books.
A bedframe with built-in drawers underneath. Guests can store their shoes or clothes, or this can be a great spot for extra linens.
A bench with storage inside. A piece that doubles as a functional bench and extra storage? Yes, please!
Space planning and organizing an ADU requires the same strategies as the main house or an apartment. The key is to use every inch as efficiently as you can to maximize the space, while still creating a calm and peaceful environment to relax and unwind.