Designing Smart Storage for Your Dream Home in 2025

We partnered with a home improvement company for this post. The opinions in the post are honest. All reviews and opinions expressed in this post are based on our personal views. We are excited because we know you will love it.

Anyone who’s tripped over a pile of shoes in the entryway or wrestled pots and pans out of a crowded cabinet knows that storage isn’t just about space—it’s about sanity. When you’re building a home from the ground up, those little frustrations are a chance to do things differently. Instead of squeezing daily life into a generic layout, you can design rooms that match the rhythm of your family, where backpacks have a landing zone, the pantry actually holds a week’s worth of groceries, and the garage isn’t a game of Tetris.

It’s no surprise that more families are choosing custom homes. Recent data shows a steady rise in custom builds, reflecting a shift away from cookie-cutter layouts and toward designs that feel personal and practical. The goal isn’t just more closets—it’s smarter closets, pantries, and storage spots that make daily routines smoother and homes more enjoyable to live in.

So, how do you turn storage from a headache into one of your home’s biggest strengths? Let’s break it down

Identify What’s Not Working, Then Call in the Experts

Clutter shows up differently in every household. For some, it’s the jumble of pots and pans crammed into a corner cabinet. For others, it’s kids’ backpacks and sports gear scattered in the hallway, or an office corner that never seems to escape cable chaos. Taking note of these everyday stress points is an important first step. It gives you a roadmap for the kind of storage your new home really needs — whether that’s bigger closets, smarter shelving, or hidden compartments that free up space.

But spotting problems is only half the equation. Translating ideas into a safe, functional design calls for professional guidance.

• Architects and designers can transform unused wall cavities or awkward corners into clever storage.

• Contractors ensure that pantries, built-ins, and custom shelving don’t just look good but actually work with your home’s structure.

Working with an experienced builder like Andrew G Construction means having a partner who listens to your lifestyle needs and guides you through every stage, from permits to finishing touches. With the right team, your “must-haves” list turns into a cohesive home where storage blends seamlessly into the design.

Plan Room by Room

When building a home, storage isn’t just about closets and cabinets; it’s about making every room work smarter. Instead of treating it as an afterthought, weave storage into the design from the start. Here’s how different areas of your house can pull double duty:

• Entryway and mudroom: The first line of defense against clutter. Built-in benches with drawers, hooks at kid-friendly height, and baskets for shoes keep daily chaos under control. Add a closet or cubby for seasonal gear.

• Kitchen: The heart of the home works best when it’s clutter-free. Deep drawers for pots, slide-out spice racks, and a walk-in pantry prevent counter overload. Create zones for baking tools, coffee gear, and small appliances.

• Living areas: Built-in shelves make room for books, toys, and family photos. An expert contractor can integrate custom shelves, window seats, or media units seamlessly into your design.

• Garage and workshop: Use overhead racks, wall cabinets, and pegboards to keep bikes, sports gear, and tools organized. A dedicated workbench with drawers prevents hobby projects from creeping into living spaces.

• Bedrooms and closets: Go beyond a bar-and-shelf setup. Add double-hanging rods, drawers, and adjustable shelving. In kids’ rooms, lower shelves and labeled bins encourage independence.

• Bathrooms: Tall linen cabinets with pull-out drawers keep essentials tidy. If space allows, a separate water closet frees up the main area so multiple people can use it comfortably.

Consider Multipurpose Zones

Open‑concept living is trendy, but that doesn’t mean every space should be open. A homework nook under the stairs or a crafting table in the laundry room keeps projects contained. A guest room can double as an office if you add built‑in desks and Murphy beds. When square footage is precious, blending functions helps you avoid wasted corners.

Final Thoughts

Designing a home from scratch is one of the few chances you have to align your living space with the way you actually live. The increase in custom builds shows more people recognize the value of tailored solutions. By identifying your storage challenges early and working with experts who listen, you can create a home that reduces clutter and makes daily routines smoother. When the kitchen drawers glide effortlessly and every coat has a place, your future self will thank you.

Could Your Washing Machine Be the Reason You’re Always Tired?

We partnered with a home improvement company for this post. The opinions in the post are honest. All reviews and opinions expressed in this post are based on our personal views. We are excited because we know you will love it.

You probably don’t give your washing machine much thought beyond tossing clothes in, hitting start, and moving on with your day. But here’s a question you might not expect: could that unassuming appliance actually be affecting your energy levels? Strange as it sounds, the answer might be yes. Hidden inside your washer could be something that leaves you feeling more drained than refreshed. Let’s explore why your laundry routine may have more to do with your tiredness than you realize.

The Hidden Problem Lurking in Your Washer

Every time your machine swirls away with detergent and water, it doesn’t just clean clothes—it also creates the perfect environment for bacteria, mold, and allergens. Dark, damp spaces are breeding grounds for microorganisms. Over time, these build up inside your washer’s drum, gasket, and pipes.

The problem? When you wear clothes washed in a machine that isn’t properly maintained, you’re exposing yourself to irritants. They can trigger allergies, affect your skin, or even worsen your sleep quality. You might not notice it immediately, but your body does. And tiredness can creep in as your immune system works overtime.

Laundry and Indoor Air Quality

It’s easy to think about clean laundry as fresh and safe, but the air quality in your home can tell a different story. Washers that harbor mold release musty odors, and those spores don’t just stay in your laundry room. They circulate.

Poor air quality, especially in small or poorly ventilated spaces, has been linked to fatigue. When your body is constantly exposed to mold particles, it can lead to low-grade respiratory irritation, making you feel sluggish without knowing why. That’s why some people feel oddly tired after spending time in their laundry area—it’s not just the folding.

The Science of Sleep and Laundry Habits

Believe it or not, your laundry routine can affect your sleep. Detergent residue and bacteria left behind on clothing can irritate your skin. Even mild irritation, like itching or slight congestion, can disrupt your sleep cycle. You wake up less rested, even if you don’t remember tossing and turning.

Research shows that allergens—like dust mites and mold—are a significant factor in poor sleep. Since we spend about a third of our lives in bed, the cleanliness of sheets and sleepwear matters more than most of us realize. If those items are coming straight from a contaminated washer, you’re literally bringing the problem to bed.

Could It Be Why You’re Always Doing Laundry?

Here’s something worth noticing: if you feel like your clothes never smell fresh, no matter how often you wash them, you might be stuck in a cycle. That leads to doing more laundry than necessary, which eats into your time, increases your workload, and adds to mental fatigue.

It’s not just about the effort, though. More laundry means higher humidity in your home, especially if you’re drying indoors. And guess what thrives in humidity? Mold. It’s a loop that quietly affects both your energy and your environment.

The Overlooked Fix: Cleaning the Machine

Now for the good news—you don’t need a new washer. You just need to give your existing one some attention. A regular deep clean of your washing machine can make a surprising difference, both for your laundry and potentially for your overall well-being.

That doesn’t mean pouring in random products or DIY hacks that might damage the machine. The simplest way is to use a washer cleaner once a month. These are designed to break down mold, soap scum, and bacteria lurking where you can’t see them. A quick maintenance cycle can reset your washer and, in turn, protect your clothes and your health.

Lifestyle Tweaks That Help

Keeping your washing machine clean is step one, but small changes in your laundry habits can also help reduce fatigue:

• Leave the door open after use. Letting air circulate prevents moisture buildup.

• Wash sheets weekly, especially if you’re prone to allergies or sensitive skin.

• Use less detergent. Too many leaves residue, which feeds bacteria and irritates skin.

• Dry clothes completely. Damp laundry can harbor microorganisms that transfer back to your skin.

It’s not about perfection—it’s about reducing the hidden stressors in your environment. These little adjustments can create a noticeable difference over time.

Why This Links Back to Energy Levels

Fatigue is rarely caused by a single thing. Often it’s a combination of small, overlooked factors that add up. Your washing machine isn’t the only culprit, but it could be part of a bigger picture.

Think of it like this: if your body is constantly dealing with allergens, mild respiratory stress, or skin irritation, your energy is being spent on defense. That leaves less for focus, creativity, and everything else you want to do. Clearing one of those stressors out of your life—like a dirty washer—can give your body more room to recharge properly.

A Fresh Start for Your Home

We all want our homes to be places that restore us, not quietly wear us down. When you clean your washer, you’re not just protecting your clothes—you’re creating a healthier environment for yourself and your family. That means fresher sheets, better sleep, and one less invisible factor contributing to fatigue.

So the next time you feel constantly drained and can’t put your finger on why, don’t just look at your schedule, your diet, or your workload. Take a quick glance at your washing machine. That small step might just reveal a surprising piece of the puzzle.

Final Thoughts

Fatigue can feel complicated, but sometimes the solutions are refreshingly simple. Your washing machine, often ignored until it breaks down, deserves attention long before then. A cleaner washer means cleaner clothes, improved air quality, and potentially better sleep.

The takeaway? If you’ve been feeling tired for no clear reason, it may be worth checking the places you least expect. Start with the one humming quietly in your laundry room. A few minutes of maintenance could do more for your energy levels than you think.

Too Much Makeup? Here’s How to Declutter It in 7 Simple Steps

Decluttering makeup is about clearing space so the products that do work, can shine. It’s about making mornings simpler, bags lighter, and drawers more functional. And more than anything, it’s about letting go of what no longer serves. So if the makeup stash has started to resemble a chemist’s aisle in peak season, it might be time for a refresh. Seven simple steps are all it takes.

Start With a Full Emptying Out

Before anything else, everything needs to come out. Every tube, pot, palette, and stray eyeliner deserves to be seen. Piling it all onto a surface, whether it be the bed, the floor, or the kitchen bench if needed, gives you perspective. It helps to understand just how much has accumulated over time.

This isn’t the moment for sorting yet, it’s just the exposure. Think of it as laying the cards on the table, before deciding what to play. A chaotic pile at this stage is normal. Sometimes it’s shocking, but always the right start.

Check for Expiry

Makeup doesn’t last forever, even if it looks and smells fine. That blush that’s been hanging around since uni? It might still blend beautifully, but might not be the safest anymore.

Expiry guidelines are usually printed on the packaging, so look for tiny symbols showing how many months a product is good for once opened. Those should be respected. It’s tempting to hold onto a perfect highlighter just because it was pricey, but if it’s old, it goes. No exceptions.

Sort by Use, Not Just Category

Most people have more than one nude lipstick and more than one eyeliner. Keep going, and you’ll find more than a few eyeshadow palettes. Sorting by category helps, but it’s more useful to sort by use.

Products used weekly, such as brow gel, lip gloss, liner, and cream remover go in one group. The ones used only for special events or shoots, like your favourite lip stain and mascara combo, can be grouped separately. And the items that haven’t been touched in over a year? They belong in a different category altogether. This way, it’s easier to spot which products are part of the daily routine, and which are just there.

Let Go of Guilt Products

There’s a particular kind of product that lurks in makeup bags and drawers: the guilt product. It might be that bold red lipstick that looked so good in the store but never quite felt right at home. Or the glitter palette bought for a one-off party. Or the expensive foundation that never matched, but cost too much to throw out.

These items sit in drawers not because they’re used or loved, but because throwing them feels like admitting defeat. Letting go of guilt products isn’t wasteful. It’s the kindest decision. Holding onto them won’t make them useful.

Keep It Where It’s Used

One of the easiest ways to stop clutter from returning is to keep makeup only where it’s used. If makeup is applied in the bathroom, it belongs there. If it’s done in a vanity, that’s where it should live.

Scattering lip balms in coat pockets and tossing concealers in every handbag leads to duplicates and disorganisation. A small pouch for touch-ups on the go is fine, but the core collection should stay in one place. It makes inventory clearer and getting ready easier.

Clean What’s Staying

Before placing anything back, take time to clean it. You can wipe down compacts, sharpen pencils, wash makeup bags and clean those brushes. It’s a small act, but it changes the way makeup feels.

A clean brush feels like a fresh start. And that’s the whole point, right? Not just to declutter, but to feel a little bit more in control and a little bit more collected.

Put It Back with Intention

The final step is setting up the collection in a way that works. Daily items should be the easiest to reach. Less-used products can live at the back or in a separate container.

If possible, clear acrylic organisers or small dividers can help avoid things getting lost again. But more important than the storage solution is the mindset. If something hasn’t earned its place, it doesn’t go back.

Conclusion

Decluttering makeup helps you with resetting your relationship with beauty, and taking back control over what gets space in the day, the drawer, and the bag. And once the declutter is done, buying new makeup becomes more exciting again. So whether it’s been years since the last clean-out or just a quiet feeling that the collection is too much, there’s never a bad time to reset.

How to Stay Organized When You’re Living Out of a Suitcase

Living out of a suitcase can sound adventurous and spontaneous—whether you’re backpacking through Southeast Asia, couch-surfing in Europe, or working remotely while hopping cities. But over time, that sense of freedom can become chaotic if you're constantly digging through your bag to find clean socks or wondering where your charger went. Maintaining order is less about discipline and more about creating small systems that help you feel grounded even when you're on the go. In this guide, we’ll explore practical ways to stay organized, minimize stress, and maximize your mobility, no matter how long you're living suitcase to suitcase.

Understand Your Lifestyle Needs

Before you even zip that suitcase, it helps to take a moment and consider your current lifestyle. Are you moving locations every few days, or staying in one place for weeks at a time? Are you traveling for leisure, work, or a mix of both? Different needs require different systems. A digital nomad working from cafes will prioritize easy access to chargers and workwear. A backpacker will want instant access to toiletries and weather-appropriate gear. Tailoring your packing approach to your travel style sets the stage for an organized journey.

Living Out of a Suitcase: Choose the Right Suitcase or Bag

The foundation of suitcase organization is, unsurprisingly, the suitcase itself. Hard-shell rolling luggage offers excellent structure and protection, great for frequent flyers. Soft duffels or travel backpacks provide flexibility and lightness, ideal for uneven terrain or crowded cities. Consider compartments, durability, and accessibility. A suitcase with separate zippered sections helps keep items compartmentalized and reduces the chances of everything spilling out each time you open it.

Pack with Intention, Not Impulse

When space is limited, every item counts. It's easy to fall into the trap of overpacking "just in case," but that creates unnecessary clutter. Focus on versatile clothing that can be layered, worn in multiple settings, and paired easily. Stick to a general color scheme so you can mix and match without thinking too hard. Packing cubes, compression bags, and zip pouches can do wonders for separating outfits, electronics, or toiletries and keeping everything in its rightful place.

Designate a Place for Everything

Just like in a regular home, things go smoothly when everything has its place. Choose a specific cube or pouch for each category—clothes in one, tech in another, toiletries in their spot. That way, when you're looking for something specific, you don't have to unpack your entire life to find it. Create muscle memory by always putting items back in the same place. It may sound trivial, but after a few days, this small habit saves a ton of mental energy.

Unpack When You Can

If you’re staying somewhere for more than a couple of nights, take the time to unpack. Lay your clothes in drawers, set up your toiletries in the bathroom, and leave your suitcase open but not chaotic. Not only does this prevent wrinkling and make it easier to get dressed, but it can also provide a small sense of normalcy and routine, which is often missing from a constantly shifting environment.

Maintain a Simple Laundry Routine

Dirty laundry can quickly spiral into suitcase chaos. Designate a compression sack or foldable bag strictly for worn clothes. Separate clean from dirty to avoid unpleasant odors and confusion. If you're on the move often, prioritize garments made from quick-dry materials that can be washed in a sink and hung overnight. Many hostels, hotels, and Airbnb offer laundry services or machines, so build laundry days into your travel routine whenever possible.

Use a Digital Packing List

A digital packing list isn’t just for your initial departure—it’s a living document. Use apps like Notion, Google Keep, or even a simple Notes file to track what you’ve packed, what you’ve used, and what you could probably do without. Keeping this updated helps streamline your packing for the next leg of your journey and helps avoid the all-too-common frustration of forgetting an essential item. When packing for an international relocation, for example, this kind of list is especially helpful for separating carry-on essentials from long-haul shipments.

Stay on Top of Paperwork and Travel Docs

Living out of a suitcase often means frequent check-ins, airport security, visa requirements, or rental agreements. Keep your passport, health documents, travel insurance, and digital backups organized in a dedicated travel wallet or file. Always know where these essentials are, and back them up to a secure cloud service. Losing your passport is stressful; knowing exactly where it is every moment adds a surprising level of calm to your travels.

Limit Souvenirs and Impulse Buys

When you're constantly moving, accumulating extra stuff becomes a burden. It’s easy to romanticize small souvenirs from every destination, but if your bag is already packed tight, you’re just creating more clutter. Instead, consider collecting digital mementos like photos, videos, or journaling. If you can’t resist shopping, implement a one-in-one-out rule: for every new item you acquire, something else must go.

Create a Daily Reset Ritual

Even the most organized suitcase can descend into chaos during a busy travel day. That’s why a short daily reset ritual works wonders. Before bed, take five minutes to fold clothes, tuck away electronics, and set aside the next day’s outfit. Doing this regularly avoids the dreaded moment of opening your suitcase and feeling like a tornado has passed through it. It also gives you a sense of control, no matter how unpredictable your schedule may be.

Stay Mindful of Weight and Size Limits

Especially when flying frequently or using public transport, it’s easy to forget how strict luggage limitations can be. Organizing your suitcase should include regular weight checks and spatial awareness. Use a digital luggage scale to monitor your bag’s heft and stay ahead of surprise fees. If you find yourself constantly struggling to zip your suitcase shut, it’s a sign to reevaluate what you’re carrying. Lightness is freedom.

Keep a Go-Bag of Essentials

In unpredictable travel situations—missed flights, sudden delays, or last-minute overnight stays—it pays to have a small, easily accessible kit of essentials. This could include a change of clothes, basic toiletries, a phone charger, snacks, and any critical medications. Keeping this in a smaller daypack or top section of your suitcase ensures that if you ever get separated from your main bag, you’ll still have what you need to get by.

Balance Flexibility with Structure

The ultimate secret to staying organized while living out of a suitcase is balancing flexibility with structure. You want your system to work for you, not the other way around. Rigid routines can be tough to maintain on the road, but small, consistent habits like folding clothes daily, reviewing your digital packing list, or repacking your suitcase the same way each time provide just enough stability to keep you grounded. It’s a delicate balance, but once you find your rhythm, it becomes second nature.

Organized, Free, and On the Move

Living out of a suitcase doesn’t have to mean living in disarray. With thoughtful planning, consistent habits, and just a little bit of discipline, you can enjoy the freedom of mobility without sacrificing your peace of mind. Whether you’re on a short adventure, a remote work stint, or even packing for an international relocation, being organized is the key to making the most of your journey. It’s not just about packing things neatly; it’s about creating a system that supports your lifestyle, keeps you comfortable, and lets you focus on the experiences, not the clutter.