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24 Barbara Genda Bespoke Furniture & Interiors

BookshelvesChances are your bookshelves contain a lot more than books. Shelving like this, designed by Barbara Genda, is the perfect spot for displaying selected decorative objects and propping postcards and the like. Too many bits and bobs, however, can quickly turn into clutter – especially when the shelves also become a dumping ground for letters to deal with, bits of broken things you keep intending to mend, small items you don’t have a home for, spent scented candles… Is this all starting to sound familiar?Clear everything that doesn’t belong on the shelves, rehousing items in their rightful homes or dealing with them, and give each shelf a good dust. If you feel unable to maintain your shelves as a no-dumping zone, consider an attractive box or basket in which all shelf-cluttering items can be hidden out of sight (and ideally dealt with in one go).You might also like 7 Places You May Have Forgotten to Clean.

Barbara Genda Bespoke Furniture and Interiors

Show off your souvenirs and knick-knacksIf you like to buy souvenirs while you’re away, but then tend to forget about them when you’re home, perhaps try reorganising your shelving space so you can display some of them and keep those cheering memories fresh in your mind and daily life. You could even put smaller items into box frames and hang them on a wall. The great thing about putting your knick-knacks on show is that you’ll always have a sentimental reminder of the story behind where you bought it and why.

Have a place for everythingEvery shelf, cabinet, wardrobe and even container needs to get its own organising job to do. If you’re not specific with what every bit of space –storage or otherwise – does for you, then family members are more likely to dump whatever they like wherever they like. For instance, if you have shelves that are half full of books, then you get the scenario where random bits and pieces, such as empty sunglasses cases, batteries, papers and so on, are thrown there for no other reason than the fact there was available space. This is how clutter builds up. However, if you fill those shelves with the books and DVDs you want, then they have a clear job to do and the books and DVDs get a clear home. It dissuades anyone from leaving other items on the shelves.

Consider proportionsTo achieve an ordered look on box shelves, make sure each object fits the space. On this wall of bespoke shelving, each gap contains pieces that are in proportion with the area. If you’re planning shelves like these, measure out exactly what you need in terms of storage and display beforehand and have the unit made to reflect those needs.

Have a chill-out zoneDon’t forget to take time out to relax and keep your well-being in check. Find yourself a quiet spot at home, such as a comfortable armchair, and make time to put your feet up. How do you make sure your home is healthy? Share your ideas in the Comments below.
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Nicolás Di Marco