Old houses are infamous for old wiring, old windows, and absolutely no closet space (if you discount the attic, or the skinny broom closet).
Even new builds and mid-century homes lack ample dry storage for today's busy families. I know my kids must have at least a dozen helmets, and I confess to having a few pairs of shoes. Organizing it all takes more than a few plastic shelving units from Canadian Tire.
When it comes to storage, I try and get creative. A day bed with storage underneath here... a built-in with shelves and cupboards over there. Rainy days often find me surfing the net, and I found this great use of wasted stairwell space. While I've seen powder rooms built under staircases, this gliding solution hides a multitude of sins, beautifully.
If you're in the design phase, talk to your contractor. Most kitchen manufacturers design custom walk-ins, and there are a few local companies who specialize in just closets. Or ask a carpenter – you'd be amazed how a few knocks on a wall can find wasted space.
So the answer is, "I can run in these heels" and "Every home has space for a closet or two". You just have to know where to look.
Meghan
meghanlaing@domus.ns.ca
