Is living room storage really that important?
You don’t need an interior designer to tell you that when it comes to keeping your house tidy and sleek, storage is your best friend. It’s crucial to start considering storage solutions at the very beginning of the design process as the best storage units are hidden, custom, and built-for-purpose. Especially in homes with young families, thoughtful storage is essential. Children come with an abundance of belongings – many of which aren’t meant to be on display – so creating smart, well-integrated storage isn’t optional!
In the project pictured, the basement was designed as the family’s main living and entertaining zone. The TV room begins its theme of deep greens and rounded forms. A green Roche Bobois Bubble sofa anchors the space, alongside a custom-built TV unit with brass handles and inset green wallpaper. A round-ended desk provides space for children’s homework and arts and crafts, and we made a custom pinboard in black and white fabric (from Cassamance) and burgundy trim (from Samuel & Sons) for them to display their artworks.
Across from the kitchen, we added shoe storage beneath the children’s seating bench, and a hidden laundry rack that slides out from under the staircase – perfect for drying clothes discreetly in a compact urban home. Rounded corners on all furniture ensure child safety, and built-in shelving and pinboards create opportunities for both organisation and creativity. A bespoke storage area includes soft-close drawers and integrated wiring, keeping the space tidy, safe, and efficient.