Tablescapes- The Art of Arranging Objects, continued

Two weeks ago, I started talking about “tablescapes” and today we’ll continue with some of the “formulas” or “structures” you can use to create them.

Formulas/Structures:
Although the ways that you display objects are as limitless as the items themselves, these are my “top 10” tablescape layout “formulas”:

1. rule of three: one of the most basic design “rules” (or guidelines, since I’m not a big fan of rules) is this: the eye processes things more easily in odd numbers, which is why, if you pay attention to details, you’ll often see groupings of three (or five or seven). photo- this basic arrangement, on a front porch table, has three different elements (the two candlesticks and the plant) that are different heights. As a bonus, the colors of those items marries with the wreath, pillows and other greenery

2. asymmetrical: shorter object(s) on one side, a taller object on the other side (like a sculpture or vase). photo- the items on this dresser not only blend well with the furniture, they also tie into the contemporary artwork behind them. Typically, I’d place the small dish with the other low item (the jewelry box), but in this case I wanted it to “soften” the weight of the sculpture

3. balanced asymmetry: even in “balanced” compositions, the elements don’t have to match. photo- this works because the two tall candlesticks on the right are balanced by the heavy triple candle holder on the left; the matching stockings create a unified look with the wreath

4. high/low: large artwork hung on a wall (or leaning), with low objects in front of the art. photo- the artwork in the back is complemented by the fossil and piece of stone below and in front of it; the vase to the right is not part of the 3 piece composition but is an example of “marrying” art with other elements

5. “tray it”: 1 tray with the “rule of 3”, centered or to one side.  photo- this small tray holds three different elements that, on their own, might be lost; this method works with large or small trays

6. clean and streamlined: just 1 element (chessboard, large art book, large-scale item). photo- this scale with tomatoes “reads” as one clean element

7. reading material: cover most of a surface with stacks of books or magazines- either keep the height of the stacks very close to one another or vary the heights significantly. This is a great way to use a dining room table that rarely has anyone dining on it!  photo- if you love to read physical books or magazines use them to add interest to a horizontal surface

8. build in some “rhythm: rhythm is one of the principles of design and a great way to tablescape. photo-this example of rhythm shows a run of candlesticks- all in clear glass with off white candles 

9. from the top down: this is a low arrangement (think of it as a “bird’s-eye view”). photo-  generally used where you need to be able to see over the surface–like in this coffee table setting; there are three distinct areas all tied together by scale and color

10. tall, fat, flat: three items that are tied together by style or finish, but representing different shapes. photo: this clock, vase and bowl, all in brushed silver are a great example of this formula

Now you know some of the formulas that you can use to create your own impactful tablescapes. Look at the items that you own, that also bring you joy, and play around with them to see what interesting combinations you can come up with.

Until we meet again, enjoy your home!
I’ll “see” you in the New Year,
Kay

©2015 kaymclane.com 

#1- rule of three

#2- asymmetrical

#3- balanced asymmetry

#4- high/low

#5- “tray it”

#6- clean & streamlined

#7- reading material

#8- build in some “rhythm”

#9- from the top down

#10- tall, fat, flat

 

 

The Art of Arranging Objects

Often, clients don’t feel comfortable with arranging decorative items in their homes. It CAN be very intimidating to look at a pile of things and try to make sense of them in a pleasing way.

The word “vignette” is often used to describe a grouping of objects. Vignette is French, and literally means “little vine”. Although the original meaning of the word referred to a decorative design (like a leaf, on a book page), it is now often defined as a “scene”. What we want to do is to purposely create “scenes” that add flavor to our stages–our homes.

Another word to think about is “tablescape”. This word was coined by the late decorator David Hicks, who believed that it doesn’t matter how valuable your possessions are, but rather the care with which they’re arranged. I get that. I’ve seen very high-end homes with beautiful objets d’art that lost their luster, simply because they were hung or placed somewhere with no thought at all. I’ve also seen very humble homes where items were arranged in a way that made them stunning! Like much in life, it’s all about how we manage what we have.

Vignettes and tablescapes both tell a story or paint a picture, through intentional arrangements. The difference is that vignettes take in “areas” that can include walls and furnishings whereas “tablescapes” deal only with horizontal surfaces. Today, we’re going to look at the latter.

Horizontal surfaces are important in design. Because walls, columns, bookcases, étagères, fireplaces and cabinets are all vertical, the horizontal surfaces we DO have matter a lot. Those surfaces, especially counter tops, desks and, in some homes, dining room tables, often become resting places for all kinds of stuff! If that’s the case in your home and you’re ready to make some changes, start by removing everything from those places and finding a home for them. Then, you’ll have a fresh place to start.

One of the basic ways to give your home a “finished” or “designer” look is with your accessories. By creating groupings on tables, dressers, mantels, countertops and shelves you’re adding personality to your home!

Some elements that are naturals for tablescaping are:
fruit or vegetables – in a glass vase, basket, or bowl
flowers- they’re fresh and life-giving
paperweights
plants- make sure they’re not unhealthy, straggly or dying
photos
clocks
vases
trophies
glass hurricanes with fresh greens, pinecones, acorns, etc.
books- stacked alone, under items or standing in bookends
organic items like: ceramics, paper lampshades, journals
nature items like: coral, books on birds, art with plants
candles & candlesticks- they add warmth & light and can be clustered together or  staggered by height (see photo below)
some “can’t fail candlestick/candle combinations:
white candles in silver, stainless steel or brushed nickel
medium brown candles in copper, brass or bronze
dark chocolate candles in wood
ivory candles in glass

Guidelines/Tips:
1. tablescapes are usually not too crowded (crowded being different from clustered)
2. a collection of items- milk glass, paperweights, nutcrackers, pottery is an easy way to create a scene
3. although beautiful arrangements are often made with “like items”, mixing it up is absolutely okay too
4. create balance among your pieces
5. think about scale and height- if necessary raise items up on pillars or books
6. ask, “do you need room for a lamp, drink, coaster, or reading material?”
7. ask, “do you need to see over it?”
8. think about color & theme- does what you’re using make sense with YOUR design aesthetic and the colors YOU love, in YOUR home?
9. think about the style of your home- if your decor is very traditional, a more symmetrical or structured approach might be best. On the other hand some types of contemporary design need more fluidity and asymmetry
10. if you’re working in front of a wall, make sure the tallest item is in the back
11. consider varying the “texture” of the elements used
12. look around your home for ordinary things that can be transformed
13. make sure there’s a light source so that you can see your impressive tablescape
14. study photos you see to discover what speaks to you
15. use the “Rule of Three”
If you’ve been reading my posts (or attended my classes) you know that I’m not a big fan of “rules”, but in some cases they make sense. The rule of three is applicable because three is the smallest number need to form a visual pattern, items arranged in odd numbers are easier on the eye; they’re more visually appealing and memorable. After three of anything, move to the next odd number (5, 7, 9, etc.) The exception to this rule is in bedrooms where I tend to purposely create pairs of items in homes where couples share a room.

Think about the process of “tablescaping” as if you were painting a beautiful picture. Most importantly, remember that it’s how YOU feel in your home that matters, so decorate in a way that makes YOU happy!

In the next post, I’ll discuss my top ten favorite “Tablescape Structures”.

Have a great week,
Kay

©2015 kaymclane.com

glass candlesticks with ivory candles
©2015 kaymclane.com

Decorating For The Holidays

It’s hard to believe that we’re already in December. This year has flown by for me!

For the December holidays, many of us decorate our homes to add to the festivities, and lend a different “feel” to our space. For some, this means a total revamp of everything we typically have both inside and outside the home. For others it may be as uncomplicated as adding one element from the holiday we celebrate.  Whether it’s a simple menorah, kinara or Christmas tree or a full-blown house redo, we love to have our homes reflect the season! 

Part of the lure of holiday decorating is the ability to “change things up” a bit. Most of us get into a “life-rhythm”, so being purposeful about adding different elements into (and outside) our homes, shakes that rhythm and adds excitement.

Even though it’s time-consuming, I suggest bringing out ALL of your decorations. For some of us, that’s a LOT of stuff. Make it into an activity where you reminisce about the history of your pieces. This is also a great time to set aside the things that you’ll be passing on to the next generation or to share your “decoration wealth” with others, if you have more than you can use.

Group items together by style or color and create a “story”.  Also, look around your home for everyday items that could be “transformed” into something different. Chances are good you can easily mix your holiday décor with your home’s style.

Think about decorating your home like you would think about accessorizing an outfit. Just like the perfect tie for a suit adds a bit of “pizzaz”, beautiful holiday pieces add sparkle and interest to your “everyday” look. Remember too that you should accessorize what you WANT to accentuate and draw attention to. For example, if you’re wearing a beautiful ring, you’re going to naturally draw attention to your hands. For holiday décor, I would suggest NOT drawing attention to things like: televisions, cluttered bookcases or toilets! Some obvious choices would be: beautiful chandeliers, tables, doorways, stairways and a fireplace mantel.

One great place to “change things up” is the dining room table since that’s a natural holiday gathering place. Create a “tablescape”, that includes candles as part of the design. Use candle holders you already have to light your table. Clear glass holders can be filled with beads, berries, pinecones or ribbon. For a simple table runner, use a piece of beautiful satin folded in thirds (no sewing involved) topped with a piece of sheer metallic fabric. Instead of storing holiday dishes to use only once a year, create pattern and movement with everyday dishware. Put your dinner plate on top of a metallic charger for a wow factor.  Tie napkins with a piece of wired ribbon. Add beautiful  stem ware and a centerpiece.  Once you finish with the dining room, move through other rooms of your home the same way: analyze what you already live with and incorporate it into your holiday decorating scheme.

This dining room table went from “everyday” to holiday elegant. The table runner was switched from a paisley to a shimmery gold; the candlesticks from the buffet were moved and gold branches were tucked inside; a simple centerpiece was added; napkins were tied with coordinating ribbon and sprayed bird nests were used to hold place cards.©2015 kaymclane.com 

Think about the STYLE of your home as well.  A Victorian home would be perfect with fresh, rich greenery, flowers, pinecones, berries, and fruit used to create colorful displays. For a period home, like this, you could also wrap picture frames with evergreens.   On the other hand, an organic modern home would look chic with a silver and apple green palette. Keep it sleek and clean with a streamlined tree and monochromatic ornaments. For a more traditional home play up the typical colors of your holiday, but add texture and warmth through your embellishments.

No matter what your home’s style, build interest by layering pieces and creating vignettes. Rather than sprinkling small things all over the place, group times together and create a story that makes sense for you and your home.

Happy Decorating,
Kay

© 2015 KAY MCLANE DESIGN, LLC

  

Organization- Week 16 Garage, Mudroom, Closet and Dining Room

For the last installment in the “Organization Series” we’re going to talk about your garage, mudroom (if you’re fortunate enough to have these spaces), the coat closet and the dining room.

A closet in the garage is a great place to store seasonal pillows and cushions.
©2015 kaymclane.com

GARAGE:
If you’re fortunate enough to own a home with a garage, it’s ideal to use it for it’s intended purpose….parking your car. “Garage” is a French word from the root word, “garer” meaning to cover or shelter. When automobiles were invented, and as they slowly replaced the horse and buggy for human transportation, there came a need to cover them. Cars were very expensive, highly coveted and treated as luxury items.

Once garages became more commonplace they were attached to a home, often resembling a carriage house with a cable roof. In the 1920s, Sears and Roebuck offered a “pergola garage”, and in that same decade The Atlantic Monthly posted, “houses without garages slow to sell”. In 1952 House & Garden Magazine wrote that the “garage has become the front entrance”. By 1960, 45% of homes had garages, and now, over 70% of homeowners use their garage as their main passageway into their homes.

A lot of the garages I see are used only for storage and this big, empty space suddenly becomes FILLED with as many things as can be jammed in it. I sometimes drive past houses, with garage doors up, and all you see is STUFF. I wonder if those people even KNOW what’s in there!

Arrange like items, like sports gear (and soccer chairs) together so you always know where everything is.
©2015 kaymclane.com

The way you enter your home has a HUGE impact on the way you feel the rest of the time you’re there. It “sets the stage” for the rest of the experience. We need to “unpack” what we’re coming home to, literally and figuratively.

the mudroom coat rack
©2015 kaymclane.com

MUDROOM:
Just like a garage, a mudroom–if you enter your house through it- is your “welcome home”. What’s the message you’re getting? Is it sterile and uninviting? Is it cluttered with stuff that doesn’t have a “real” home?  Think about what you NEED in this space. Some of the most important things are a place for:

• keys
• umbrellas
• hooks for coats
• a space for each family member, to make life less complicated
• dog leashes if you have four-legged family members
• a tray for boots/shoes
• a bench to sit on
• cloths for wet feet (or paws)

This coat closet is organized and efficient.
©2015 kaymclane.com

COAT or HALL CLOSET:
First, purge! Pull out five things you know you’re never going to use again and donate them. That will get you started by doing good for others while you do good for yourself!

• use a clear shoe organizer hung on the inside of the door for gloves, hats, scarves
• roll scarves and stand up in a bin
• hang coats by person, then by length or season
• consider raising the hanging bar if storage underneath makes more sense

DINING ROOM:
The more frequently you use the room for actual dining- the easier it should be for it to stay organized. Instead of eating while working, or in front of the television, create a space where you can slow down and enjoy eating your meals. 

• first, declutter–a lot of dining rooms become the “bargain basement” of the house
• remove anything that belongs in another room: mail, books, laundry, etc.- take them there now
• then figure out why things have ended up there; if there are non-dining room things hanging around then you need to put other processes in place
• clear off all horizontal surfaces so you can “see” the room differently
• look at your china…do you love it? use it?
• if you have silver, check to see if it needs cleaning- if you don’t want to clean it, it may be time to let it go
• are there things you’re “afraid” to use? if yes, do you love them? if not, sell or donate them
• is the room “over decorated” for your style–for many of us, simple is a lot more relaxing
• create spaces for everything you want to keep; remember to keep like items together: linens, serving pieces, glassware
• use a dresser for storage; it can have a  linen drawer, tea drawer, party items drawer
• set up a bar cart or a table for drinks when you have a party

At the end of the day, the most important thing is how your house works for YOU. If you’ve read any of the Peace Full Home posts, you know how strongly I feel about home being your safe place and your refuge from the rest of the world. If you’re walking into your home and it stresses you out, that’s just counterproductive. Conversely, if what your guests see is “magazine beautiful”, but there’s chaos and dysfunction “behind closed doors”, then it’s a show house; not a home that envelops you when you walk in the door.

I know that creating a clutter-free, organized home takes energy and work. I also know that YOU are worth it!

Good luck on this journey,
Kay

©2015 KAY MCLANE DESIGN, LLC

Organization- Week 15 Living Room/Family Room/Library Part II

We’re in the process of organizing your entire home and started working on Living Areas two weeks ago. Let’s pick up where we left off, with more specifics, being aware that your home may have all of these or only one or two of these situations.

Organize your books by subject to make them easy to access. ©2015 kaymclane.com

• books- unless books are the one thing that you “decorate” with, or they GENUINELY bring you joy (remember love it or use it?) treat them as you would any other item
  ASK:
  1) will you REALLY ever want to read it again?
  2) does it have sentimental value?
  3) does it have monetary value (first edition, leather, etc.)?
  4) will you really use it for reference (vs. the internet)?
  5) is it important to you (and if so, why)?

Once you’ve answered those questions, purge as appropriate, but before you do that check every single book for notes or money. After that, find places that take book donations and box them up (using small boxes) and recycle anything that’s torn or stained.

A pair of children’s riding boots and an old camera are right at home on a book shelf. ©2015 kaymclane.com

• use interesting items that you love as bookends or create bookends from wall brackets
• keep bookmarks with your books
• designate one area of your bookcase for “unread books”
• organize by genre, color or author

• 

  If you’re going to hold onto magazines for reference, organize them by date. ©2015 kaymclane.com

  magazines- if you subscribe to paper magazines (as opposed to electronic subscriptions), you should treat them like you do any other mail that’s delivered to you and “process them”

• unless it’s a magazine that you keep for your business as reference (for example, I hang on to copies of Architectural Digest), read them and then pass them on or recycle them
• it’s fine to keep the current month out on a table to read, but replace it as soon as the next issue arrives
• if there are interesting articles you want to refer to, tear them out and put them in the “miscellaneous” or “active” files (discussed in “the office, part I”)

games and puzzles– I talked about this in Week 9- “All About the Kids” , but I want to add this to the library/family room/living room areas as well, since these are the rooms that often hold those items.

• if you often play cards and/or board games, or regularly put puzzles together, it makes sense to keep them where you use them
• like everything else, keep like items with like items
• corral decks of cards and gadgets (like Rubik’s cubes) in a basket
• stack games by age and/or type
• organize puzzles by difficulty
• if you have a lot of puzzle boxes (which get broken easily and take up too much space), you can save space by cutting the picture off the top, and then storing the pieces in a clear zipped bag with the image showing; these bags can then be “filed” by number of pieces, or subject matter in a basket
• keep a box of notepads, score sheets and sharpened pencils in the same place, so that “when the spirit moves you” you’re able to sit back, relax and have fun. After all, isn’t that what “home” should be about?
  

  When you’re ready to sit down and have fun with family or friends, it’s nice to have everything at your fingertips!
  ©2015 kaymclane.com

  photos– with many of us “going digital” we have a lot less to manage, as far as printed photos. I kind of miss the “good old days” with tangible photos (yes, I do still print some out once in a while), but what I don’t miss is developing a roll of film only to find out that every photo is blurry (or over-exposed, or just down-right unflattering). Most of us do, however, have a lot of old photos that need homes. There are options but let’s start with getting them in order:

• start with one stack at a time- yep, that means no jumping around
• get rid of every photo you don’t want–those with scenery that looked amazing in person but doesn’t look nearly as good in a photo, the duplicates, the unflattering ones, those with people you’d rather NOT remember
• then sort them by year (if you can’t really figure that out, guesstimate by decade)
• finally, depending on your stamina, you can organize by event, people or places (but if you get to the point of having them sorted by year, I’m REALLY proud of you!)
• use photo boxes that have archival quality interiors- you can get boxes that hold up to 2400 photos  OR
• take them (or send them) to a service to be scanned, but be sure you know who you’re dealing with–check out the companies reputation–those photos may be irreplaceable
• create a “digital library” on your desktop or laptop, by sorting them into “folders” or “categories” as you go, otherwise you’ll have the same thing as that box full of photos that you started with.
  

  Albums organized by date, in matching albums, look beautiful and make it easy to enjoy the photos! ©2015 kaymclane.com

In the next organization post, we’ll look at the dining room, mud room and garage. Sounds like fun, right?

Have a wonderful week,
Kay

©2015 Kay McLane Design

 

 

Organization- Week 14 Living Room/Family Room/Library Part I

Now that the weather is cooling down in most parts of the country, it’s time to get back inside and into organization! In the next two posts we’ll be working on the living areas.  Since this is where you relax (alone or with those living with you), or entertain (one friend or groups of forty), it’s important that the space is comfortable, inviting and reflects who YOU are.

LIVING ROOM/FAMILY ROOM/LIBRARY
In many homes this room has multiple purposes. If you live in a larger home, you may have more than one room labeled this way. In my home, I have a “family room” and a “library”. The family room is where we chill out and watch TV or a movie, have small group meetings or entertain family and friends. It’s also adjacent and open to the kitchen so it’s ideal for holidays and parties where people like to move around.  The “library” is more intimate and where we have conversation and drinks with another couple or a few good friends.

For starters:

• first sit in each living area (and in every seat), really look at it, and SEE where it’s cluttered
• develop zones for whatever works for YOUR home- entertaining, reading, meetings, playing games, watching TV & movies, conversation
• pare down your accessories if you have more than you enjoy,  pull back the curtains, raise the blinds (clean the windows)
• move furniture around to see if there’s a different way of “arranging” your room
• group collections together; that’s how they have more impact; remember that “collect” is in the word “collection”; for example, instead of having roosters (or paperweights or Hummels or clocks) scattered throughout the house, give them one place to “roost” (pun intended)
• use large, attractive baskets to hold toys, blankets, magazines
• utilize interesting boxes or bowls, on tables, to hold small items
• decorative baskets and ottomans with hinged lids give you easy to access storage for out of season items (like throws used in the cool months) or toys if you only occasionally have children in your home
  

  The best family/living room is one where YOU feel at home, relaxed and at peace.
  ©2015 kaymclane.com

Regarding your current furniture, if it doesn’t work with your design aesthetic or life style, or have significant (positive) family associations consider removing it.  If it’s something you really can’t do without (the only sofa in the house, for example), replace it as soon as you’re able to. The same holds true if it’s uncomfortable, just one more place to pile “stuff” onto, or you think it’s just ugly. If replacing it isn’t an option, can you live without that piece for now? As always, before you throw something out, make sure that it can’t be donated or given to a friend or family member who would just love it.

Now, let’s move into some specific solutions for some of the situations you may have in YOUR living spaces.
electronics and  peripherals: televisions, laptops, smart phones, tablets, electronic games and a myriad of other devices vie for space in our homes. Whether you’re a one TV home (like me) or you’re connected EVERYWHERE, try to find balance. Home should be restful and rejuvenating. That doesn’t mean you shouldn’t be kicking back with the Sunday game or enjoying any number of programs. Just make sure that you also carve out space that’s “electronics free”; where remote controls, cords and devices aren’t all over the place. Like everything else, we want these items to be in a place that makes sense.

In a home with children, create an “entertainment area” that includes books too! ©2015 kaymclane.com

• anything used for television watching (whether that’s one simple remote or half a dozen) should be near where you are when you turn the device on and off
• baskets, or boxes for remotes are an easy solution and can be tied in with your décor
• label the cables that connect your TV to other devices for ease when you have to make a change; this can easily be done with a piece of white duct tape with the connection written on it (“TV to DVR”)
• keep only the movies you really like (and that can fit) on your shelves- purge these as you would any other item
• if you’re “old school” like me, and still actually play CDs, catalog them by style and artist getting rid of those you don’t enjoy any longer
• or Rip music from CDs onto your computer
• assign one place, near an outlet, for charging phones and tablets that go wherever you go; this might be near “ground control”
• as you update your electronics, recycle the old manuals and cords that are obsolete so that you stay ahead of the game!
  

  A photo printer, extra charging cords, memory sticks, CD lists and remote are all stored together, making things easier to find.
  ©2015 kaymclane.com

In the next post, we’ll continue with more specific living area concerns and how to tackle them one at a time!

Until then, have a wonderful and organized week,
Kay

©2015 KAY MCLANE DESIGN, LLC

Organization- Week 13 Bathroom and Laundry Room

This week we’ll be organizing the bathroom and laundry room. Let’s jump in and get started!

BATHROOM
Like any room that gets a lot of traffic, and usually contains a lot of stuff, the bathroom is a space that needs continual maintenance to keep it in shape. Since you spend a fair amount of time here, make it comfortable, attractive and efficient.

• makeup- purge regularly- (for example, lipstick should be tossed after 1 year and mascara after 4 months); just like clothing and accessories we talked about, get rid of the colors that don’t work well for you or that you simply don’t use
• keep the makeup you use daily in an easy-to-access place
• use magnetic sheets or strips inside cabinet for tweezers, bobby pins, etc.
• store hair appliances in PVC pipe (white plastic pipe- inexpensive and available at all home improvement stores) inside cabinets
• use decorative glass bottles for ponytail holders
• 

  small shelves, over a piece of art, add great storage in a bathroom ©2015 Kay McLane Design

  install a shelf over the bathroom door or mirror (or on an empty wall), use apothecary or lidded jars to store small items

• put a shoe organizer box, under the sink, for cleaning supplies
• use beautiful jars and containers to house cotton balls, bath salts, small soaps or hair accessories – you get a designer look and organization at the same time
• if you have a dressing area determine what you actually use; only daily use items should stay on top of the vanity
• check and get rid of out dated medications prescription or over the counter )flushing these pills is no longer advised as they can pollute water systems)
• hang a lingerie/mesh bag on suction hook inside tub for bath toys
• use craft boxes for hair supplies
• squeegee your glass door each time you shower
• install hooks on the back of bathroom door for bathrobes
• have an extra medicine cabinet built-in between the wall studs, next to the door
• create your own drawer dividers – with shoeboxes, card boxes, bank check boxes (if you still use paper checks); cover them with beautiful papers for more impact
• if your room is really small use the space over your toilet for storage, but unless you’re REALLY meticulous, use a cabinet with a door
• add scents that are relaxing for you and/or your family (be careful however with a bathroom that guests use- many people have sever allergic reactions to certain scents)

Create a beautiful bathroom that’s calm, relaxing, organized and helps you begin and end your day peacefully!

LAUNDRY ROOM
The laundry room (or laundry space if you don’t have a dedicated room), like the bathroom, is a workhorse in your home. Some people are working within a tiny space while others have the luxury of a room that serves not only getting clothing cleaned but any number of other possibilities: plant potting, sewing, office space, storage, etc. No matter how big or small your laundry area is, organization is critical to make the space work efficiently. Even if you live alone and don’t use this room all the time, make this space attractive so you don’t hate being in there. Chores, like laundry, are much more enjoyable if you like being in the room!

• group laundry care items together on a shelf or in a cabinet
• for powdered products use a nice container with a little scoop attached to the lid
• create bins (or baskets) for sorting either by color (whites, colors, darks, gentles) or by fabric (delicate, work clothes, heavy towels, etc.)
• if you hate the process of sorting everyone’s items when they’re mixed together, consider doing a load for each bedroom so they’re already sorted when they come out of the dryer
• if everyone in your household is old enough to put their own clothing away, have one clean clothes basket for each person
• use baskets (or bins) that are rectangular or square (as opposed to curved bottoms or rounded sides); that helps keep things neat and not
• you can roll jeans, t-shirts and other items that aren’t fragile to save on space
• if you store cleaning supplies in this room you can use S hooks on wire shelving for dustpan, brush, duster, lint remover, etc.

Finally, decorate this room like any other room; something as simple as a plant (if you have adequate light) or a piece of art that makes you smile, will make the laundry room a place that’s enjoyable to be!

Have a great week,
Kay

©2015 Kay McLane Design

 

Organization- Week 12 Accessories

Last week the topic was closets and clothing. Since our closets are “behind closed doors”, we often don’t really know what’s lurking in the back corners. Often the folks with the biggest closets end up being the most disorganized because there’s so much room to fill.

This week let’s move on to accessories, which are even easier to accumulate since they take up even less space! Just like you did with your clothing last week, the first step is sorting through everything. Again, don’t dump everything on your bed or table. It’ll be too overwhelming. Start with one box or drawer or section and move methodically through your collection.

JEWELRY:
Be truly honest with yourself about what you’re going to wear. This applies to everything from the costume jewelry you’ve picked up on sale to the expensive earrings that were a gift. For the items you don’t want, find out if they have value and can be sold. For the costume jewelry, is there someone else whose style it would fit? Could it be donated? Do you have children in your life who would enjoy it for “dress up”? (if that’s an option for you, make sure that you’re only giving little ones “kid safe” items).

Keep the items that:
make you feel good when you wear them
have a positive emotion attached to them
will be eventually passed on to someone else
work with YOUR style (the one you’re developing as you thin out your inventory)

The way you’ll store your jewelry depends not only on how large your collection is, but also whether it’s primarily composed of expensive (or heirloom) pieces as opposed to mostly costume jewelry. The important thing, after you’ve purged, is to be able to easily access the pieces you love so that you can wear them and enjoy them. Having something tucked away, out of sight just doesn’t add value to your life (unless, of course, you have that massive diamond in a safe to pay for the trip to Paris!)

• hang delicate necklaces on small nails, lined up on a piece of trim, inside your closet or hang necklaces on a tie belt rack with pegs; this keeps them organized and prevents tangling
• put small pairs of earrings in travel pill boxes labeled with what’s inside
• use a wooden hanger with eye hooks screwed into it for earrings with wire backs
• put bangle bracelets on a carabiner clip and hang on a hook in your closet or
• display bracelets on a decorative glass bottle
• if you use a jewelry box, make sure it doesn’t become a “dresser-top junk drawer”; keep items organized by type (watches, necklaces, bracelets, earrings) then color or metal (gold, silver, iron)
• below is one “makeover” that gave the client a lot of storage in a small space
  • we took a tall, skinny (about a foot wide), white cabinet (typically used for bathroom storage) and turned it into her accessories space
  • we painted the cabinet black
  • installed cup hooks under the top for necklaces
  • covered the shelves with black velvet for her bracelets and pins
  • and used the bottom drawers for scarves
  • it turned out GREAT!

 

 

 

SCARVES & TIES:
When looking at scarves and ties ask;
“do I like the colors?” (yes, gentlemen this applies to you too),
“do I like the pattern?”,
“does it go with the colors of the clothing in my closet?”,
“when was the last time I wore it?”,
“does this tie (or scarf) make me feel ‘pulled together’ or ‘successful’?”,
“will this tie (too narrow or too wide now) come back into vogue?”

• roll ties and scarves and store in a drawer with dividers (don’t fold them- we don’t want to create creases)
• ties can (obviously) be hung on a tie rack- stationary or moving depending on how many you have
• scarves can be organized on a “scarf holder” with holes and a hanger top
• hang scarves (or ties) over a pant hanger (hanger top with straight bar) with a padded bar as shown below

BAGS/PURSES:
Many women (and some men) have a real penchant for bags (or purses or handbags). For some of us there’s a spring bag, a summer bag, a fall bag and a winter bag, as well as purses to match most outfits. For others there’s one or two that get replaced only as needed. The majority of us are somewhere in between. I’ve been guilty of having more bags than one woman could possibly use and, in spite of not changing them out as much as I did in my 20s, 30s, 40s and early 50s, I STILL have too many. I AM working on this!

• if you haven’t used an “everyday” bag it in an entire year, let it go
• if you haven’t used a special occasion bag in two years, donate it, or give to a friend who would actually use it
• dedicate a certain amount of space for your purses and then stick with it
• use shelving to line them up or wall hooks to hang them vertically
• ask “will I really change out my bag THAT often?”
• separate your bags into categories: work bag * everyday bag * book tote * weekend bag * diaper/kids bag * evening bag
• determine how many of each type you need- be realistic
• first- choose one favorite in each category
• second- if you still have room in the predetermined storage area, choose 1 additional one
• keep moving on like that until your space is filled or you KNOW you’re already back in the “I have too many to use” place
• before you get rid of any (donate, consign, sell online), check carefully for $$, or important papers
• using a box, like below, to store special occasions bags is a great way to keep them organized and dust free

 

 

 

 

We’ve tackled the bedroom, the closet and dressers, the clothing and now, accessories. In the past three weeks you’ve organized one of the most important spaces in your home, the place where you’re supposed to be refreshed and renewed. 

Next week we’ll move on to another space in your Peace Full Home!

Until then, I wish you a calm beginning and end to each day,
Kay

©2015 KAY MCLANE DESIGN

Organization- Week 11 Closets and Clothing

Closets trip a lot of people up- literally AND figuratively!

if you open your closet door and say “ahhhh, how beautiful” you’re in a different place than most people. Unfortunately, when many open the door the reaction is more like, ” I have NO idea what’s in here or how to find ANYTHING!” You CAN change that.

A CLOSET’S FUNCTION IS TO BE FUNCTIONAL-remember that always. There are a lot of things you can do to get it to that functional space.

Remember last week when I said that I don’t want you to empty your entire closet or dresser all at once? That was because there’s often SO much stuff in there that you’ll get frustrated and give up. You need to bite off manageable pieces at a time.

Take one section or drawer at a time and:

• identify outdated or unflattering items and consign, donate or, as a last resort, toss- remove them immediately and put them in the bags or boxes labeled with where they’re going; anything that has stains or is torn- pitch immediately if it can’t be donated
• you might think “it cost me a fortune!” or “what if it comes back in style?” or “what if I fit into it again?” or “what if I need it because I’m going back to the gym?”
• if it doesn’t fit or you haven’t worn it in two years, lose it unless it’s priceless or has wonderful memories or an heirloom
• keep one “treasure” (I’m NOT talking about your everyday clothing, I’m talking about one thing you can’t part with because it brings you joy or makes you smile)
• if you’re keeping it because of an important association: wedding dress, mother’s fur coat, grandfather’s overcoat,  pack and store (use archival quality boxes or bags if you intend to pass it down to someone)
• identify items needing alterations that still look great and make sense- put them by your door so that they’re in your car and they actually go to be altered
• if you don’t feel GREAT in it or if it would cost more to alter or repair or clean than it’s worth, donate it
• once they’re organized “shop” your closets
• make a list of items needed to “fill out” your wardrobe
• chances are REALLY good that you only wear what’s at the top of your piles of t-shirts and sweaters; put the bottom third in donation box
• put all hangers on the rod backward, at the end of the season, donate anything that’s not turned around or
• as you empty the hanger move it to the right- then notice what always ends up on the left
• take out everything that you haven’t worn in a year, then examine your closet, do you feel that sense of freedom? do you feel like you have literal “breathing space”?
• use divider shelves for sweaters- these can be custom-made, store-bought or shelf brackets screwed down
• 

  Baskets, shown here on the bottom shelf of a bookcase, are great for storing socks.

  use pool noodles for boots instead of expensive boot forms

  

  “Pool noodles” are inexpensive and can be cut to any size with a pair of scissors, to help keep your tall boots upright.

• install under shelf baskets in closets or cabinets for vertical space
• double your hanging space by adding a second rod under half of the closet (if the bar is at least 66 high) – only need two brackets and a rod- hang 35” off floor
• use all the hangers the same hangers for dresses, shirts and tops and all the same hangers for pants and skirts
• install hooks on inside of doors that swing out
• make sure to use vertical space efficiently- can you put a set of drawers under the short hanging items?
• use wall hooks to hang purses vertically
• roll: jeans, socks and tights, swimsuits, t-shirts
• opt for a shoe rack instead of a hanging shoe bag- often dirty near your clothing
• use under-bed storage ONLY was a last resort

Once your closet is organized:

• group by type first- dressers, shirts, pants, etc.
• then by color
• then by sleeve/pant length
• plan ahead for the week by “making outfits” so you’re ready to go
• special occasion items bagged (ideally breathable) either labeled or with a clear top
  

  Labeling your special occasion items makes it easier to quickly find what you need.

Sit back and admire your work knowing that everything you have fits, looks great, makes you smile and is easy to find!

Kay
©2015 KAY MCLANE DESIGN

Organization- Week 10 Your Bedroom

Last week in our organization journey we worked on how to get children off to a good start with organization. The tools we give little ones helping them live a clutter-free life.

Horizontal surfaces are often “clutter catchers” in bedrooms. Make sure your dressers add to the calm. ©2015 kaymclane.com

Today, let’s go into one of those “behind closed doors” spaces where, sadly, a lot of folks stick a LOT of stuff: the bedroom.

Before you read any further, take a moment and answer this question, “what does calm FEEL LIKE to me?” For each of this the answer will be a little different. Write down what comes to mind. Are you down with that? Okay, let’s move forward. Calm is what you’re bedroom SHOULD be.  Rumi (“Jalāl ad-Dīn Muhammad Rūmī) a 13th century theologian and poet wrote, “a little while alone in your room will prove more valuable than anything else that could ever be given you.” Unfortunately, for too many people, there’s so much stuff in that room that you never get to the place of regeneration, peacefulness and calm!

• this SHOULD be your “Zen” place- for too many it’s a dumping ground- when you’re walking around (or over) a lot of stuff, it’s going to be challenging to feel serene
• identify when your room is getting cluttered- in the morning when you’re rushing? at the end of the day? once you can identify that, you can change it
• there should be no bills, old clothing, outgrown clothing, old toys lying around (bills should be dealt with in another room and the old/outgrown items should be donated)
• in the process of moving through this room, you need to touch and determine the value of EACH thing in this room; ask questions like”
  • “will I actually read this book here?”
  • “am I ever going to get to those outdated magazines?”
• what about all that stuff on your dresser or nightstand? after you decide what you REALLY need in the room, use a small box or tray to hold small items like your phone, glasses, or flashlight
• always ask “should it be in the bedroom?” if not, find the right space for it
• an ottoman or trunk a the bottom of the bed is great for storing off-season clothing or shoes
• use night stands with drawers to keep the top clutter free, but make sure the drawers don’t become spaces for hiding junk
• decide on a place for dirty laundry; ideally this would NOT be in the bedroom
• after you decide what to get rid (ideally donate or recycle)…
• THEN set up your drawers and closets
• one drawer at a time, then one part of the closet at a time
• too many people have the idea that they’ll empty the closet (or dresser) than go through everything; typically that gets overwhelming REALLY fast
• do not tackle everything at once, it will be too much
• we’ll be going into detail with closets and clothing (as well as accessories) next week 

A bedside table with a plant, book and candle makes a peaceful statement in your bedroom. ©2015 kaymclane.com

Get rid of the clutter.
Pare down what you’re storing.
Be discerning about what you put out on display- things that make you smile and bring you joy.
Add a small plant (or flowers) on a table to make you smile
Get rid of as many electronics as possible.
Make your bedroom a priority; it’s more important than the rooms that are on “display”.

Most of us spend 1/3 of our lives in bed- make it the most restful place you can!

See ya next Wednesday,
Kay

©2015 KAY MCLANE DESIGN