2015 was definitely the year of streamlining our wardrobes. It was near impossible to avoid articles about the capsule wardrobe, minimal styling and everything Konmari – we couldn’t get enough of getting rid of our clothes! But I predict 2016 will be the year we move from our wardrobes and focus on decluttering the home. And I would argue our nesting habits have just as much impact, if not more, on the way we feel every day. We all develop habits, for better or for worse, and what better time to make a few small changes that can yield big results than the new year?
Set up an “Outbox” – It’s easy to get rid of the things that you have no use for, but it’s the maybe pile that can get really tricky (and time consuming). An Outbox is a tip I picked up on Apartment Therapy, and is a place to put those things you’re not quite ready to let go of. It can be a piece of clothing you spent good money on but never wear, an appliance that rarely gets used, or something you are considering returning. You leave the items there for a period of time, say a week, and then come back and make a decision on whether to keep or get rid of it. AT says “when you put something in the outbox, it doesn’t mean you’re getting rid of it, you’re just taking it out of the equation while you work on other things.” I like to keep a basket, like these leather topped hampers, near the front door and it has really helped!
Everything in its place – You’ve probably heard this one before, but it’s really the best way to prevent chaotic mornings searching for keys or your cell phone. If you make one change this year, make your entryway function for you. Put a bowl or tray, like this leather valet tray, near the front door and hang hooks or a coat rack like this wooden one to store your purse and coat on when you walk in the door.
Add storage where the clutter is – If your dining table or kitchen island constantly gather things that have no place to live, you may need more storage. “Everything in its place” means that every thing you own or use should have a permanent place where it belongs, and if your dining table is a dumping ground then your dining room storage system isn’t working. Consider adding more storage or shelving, like a console or bookcase, into the space. If you’re dealing with smaller clutter like mail or pens, then a small storage system like this wooden toolbox can make all the difference.
Lose clutter, not style – It’s true, a neutral color palette and clear surfaces will help achieve a minimal, decluttered look – but that doesn’t mean you have to lose out on the decor that gives your home its personality! It’s still important that you find ways to express yourself through your decor, you just might want to avoid doing that through small decorations that can clutter your surfaces. Instead, make bold, interesting choices for your walls or ceilings, like an interesting light fixture or art that you love.
Sources: Cracked bell light Canvas Home, leather valet tray TRNK, woven hampers Connected Artisans, coat rack Anthropologie, wooden toolbox Food52, console Anthropologie, mushroom art DillyPad, inspiration image by Cheetah is the New Black
