Dear Heather,

We live in a small house and I never seem to have enough space for anything. Have you got any ideas for storage?

Not Enough Space

Dear Not Enough Space,

No matter the size of your home or the number of closets you have, everyone is looking for more storage space.

While you may think getting the storage you need means moving or turning an entire bedroom into a new closet, there are ways to maximise the space you have.

• Use space bags

The idea of vacuum-sealing your linens and winter clothes may seem strange but it works. The space under the bed is a great place to store rarely used or seasonal items. Also, using containers with wheels will allow easy access when needed.

• Create an eat-in alcove

Not only does it give you a cosy place to sit for dinner, but also adds two great places to store your dishes and linens.

Two tall, built-in cabinets on either side of the kitchen window create an instant alcove that is perfect for a comfy window seat banquette for eat-in convenience.

You’ll need 20 to 24 inches of depth to create a window seat with enough room for cushions along the back.

• Go up top

The top shelf of a closet often remains empty simply because it is hard to access for most people.

That is what step stools are for. Slide one under your clothes or lean it against a wall so it is always there when you need it. Then, line the shelf with zippered or lidded boxes that can house your things while keeping them dust-free.

• Redo your closet

Yes, you could spend many hundreds of dollars on a custom closet, which would help create more space for your stuff. You can also do it yourself for considerably less.

Go to a hardware store and buy a closet rod that you can easily install halfway up your closet to double the amount of hanging space for a few dollars. Donate clothing you do not use to charity.

• Create a home office in a closet

Yes, you have to relocate your jackets and coats, but you already created so much more room in your other closets by using space bags.

Plus, now you have a dedicated place for the printer, computer, papers and files that are hanging out all over your home.

A little-used closet is the ideal command centre for a home-based business. A tucked-away office can feature an inexpensive desk. If things get messy, you simply close the door.

• Have you got an attic you do not use? Fit an attic door with a pull-down ladder. This can provide the ideal space for items such as suitcases and Christmas decorations.

Most of us have more stuff than we really need. While you are tidying up ask yourself, ‘would I take this with me if I moved house?’ If not, perhaps it is time to donate it or throw it away.

Alternatively, put little-used items in a box. If they are not used within six months, do not open the box but take the entire thing to the goodwill shop. Enjoy your new space!

• Heather Chilvers is among Coldwell Banker Bermuda Realty’s leading sales representatives. She has been working in real estate for 25 years. If you have a question for Heather, please contact her at hchilvers@brcl.bm or 332-1793. All questions will be treated in confidence.