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White Kid's room
Photography by BRITTANY AMBRIDGE

Finding a designated nook, shelf, or cove for storing all your random odds and ends can be relatively difficult, especially if you’re living in a small space. While there are a handful of traditional storage solutions at our disposal, we’re all for finding fresh ways to store our gear—read: style-focused methods that don’t double as an eyesore. So we scoured the web for a little inspiration and here’s what we learned.

As important as the storage vessel itself is, the items within are equally so—as proven by this eclectically sweet spot curated by designer Maryam Nassir Zadeh. A seemingly standard cuby unit boasts a vintage-esque composition that lends itself to the worldly qualities of the piece. Within said shelf, found objects of a vibrant color and make transform an ordinary concept into a statement spot.

9 Ways Your Storage Unit Can Double as an Accent Piece
Photography by URBAN OUTFITTERS
Sure, side tables are about as standard as they come but, isn’t it time to swap out the existing one in your living space for something with a slightly more contemporary edge? This two-tone piece comes in a high-contrast hue, making for a welcome pop of color—bonus points if you’re pairing it with an equally vibrant sofa.

Dorset Tiered Side Table, Urban Outfitters, $129

9 Ways Your Storage Unit Can Double as an Accent Piece
Photography by GOOD THING

Ditch the snoozy wooden bowl, which typically houses your farmer’s market haul, in favor of this playfully stackable piece. Whether you opt to use it for fruit and veggies, or as a vessel for a table centerpiece, it will undoubtedly impart your space with an inspired and style-focused element.

Platform Bowl, Good Thing, $32.50

9 Ways Your Storage Unit Can Double as an Accent Piece
Photography by AYTM
Your magazine storage never looked so good. While that bulky pile below your coffee table (or the one that takes up the entirety of a bookshelf) is one way to hold on to your favorite issues, we can’t deny the streamlined elegance of this plated iron piece or the eye-catching effect it will impart your living room with.

Curva Magazine Holder, AYTM, $190

9 Ways Your Storage Unit Can Double as an Accent Piece
Photography by FERM LIVING / HUSET
While this timeless piece can essentially double as a variety of storage solutions, we’re all for utilizing it as it’s intended: as a contemporary planter with a distinct Scandinavian edge. Beautifully minimalistic, it was made for grouping together a cluster of eclectic greens, especially those of the over-flowing variety. Utilize this sleek plant box as a way to deck an empty wall, or set it beneath a window to double as an indoor plant box.

Plant Box, Ferm Living, $75

9 Ways Your Storage Unit Can Double as an Accent Piece
Photography by GOOD THING
Comprised of a naturally absorbent material that wicks away moisture, this chic stand is a much-needed departure from the typically utilitarian piece. Elegantly streamlined, the blush-toned stand will instantly elevate your entry. Perhaps rainy days might just become something you look forward to.

Umbrella Stand, Good Thing, $135

9 Ways Your Storage Unit Can Double as an Accent Piece
Photography by GOOD THING

Keep your readily-used culinary essentials close-at-hand with this simply understated piece, which certainly doesn’t skimp on style. Designed with a sleek Scandinavian edge and a clad in a muted pastel, it’ll surely lend a bright detail to the kitchen.

General Bucket, Good Thing, $29.50

9 Ways Your Storage Unit Can Double as an Accent Piece
Photography by URBAN OUTFITTERS
Over the run-of-the-mill wall hooks and floating shelves? Opt for a more untraditional hallway storage solution. Swap in these rotating hooks, which are about as versatile as they come. Plus, their lustrous finish means the drab and often overlooked mudroom or entry is about to get a major glam upgrade.

Lisette Rotating Double Wall Hook, Urban Outfitters, $12

9 Ways Your Storage Unit Can Double as an Accent Piece
Photography by SISäLLä INTERIOR DESIGN

While there is nothing revolutionary or new about colorful floating shelves, we just can’t get enough of the stunning effect they can have in a room. Create a statement moment in a whitewashed space by installing a set of floating shelves on a designated accent wall—obviously, a high-contrast paint job on said wall definitely helps.

Design by Sisällä Interior Design.

Discover more ways to make the most of your storage:

Easy Storage Solutions If You Don’t Have a Closet Style-Focused Ways To Display Your Best Dishes 11 Non-Traditional Ways to Store Your Wine