Home organization 101: Pretty organized

1 "If you've chosen a method of storage that's open and on view, you have to be fussy about things like how the bowls and plates look stacked," says Judith. In this cook's kitchen, equipment, serving pieces and ingredients are on display, but the kitchen doesn't look cluttered or overly industrial. "It sounds precious, but look at the colour and illustrations on labels when you're buying vinegars and oils, and see if they're attractive. Then spend a few hours setting up things so that it works and looks good."
LESSON Don't commit to closed storage just because you're afraid of clutter; instead, spend time styling what you've organized, moving things around till they look good.

2 "Organizing doesn't mean sterile," says Judith. "You do want to leave out beautiful objects that you enjoy looking at." When you plan for storage, Judith suggests including display space for candles, a few books, rotating stacks of CDs beside the stereo, magazines and the like. Also, don't go overboard with built-ins; choose freestanding furniture with storage, style and personality to supplement your built-in storage.
LESSONS Mix open and closed storage, and give thought to what objects are on display.

3 "This is a particularly sophisticated TV cabinet," says Judith. "The beautiful walnut doors slide open and closed and match the cabinet below." However, she notes the trend today is to put plasma and flatscreen TVs on display. "Because they're so good-looking, we don't have to hide them."
LESSON Whether you like your technology on view or behind closed doors is a matter of personal preference. Whatever option you choose, make sure cords (until we have a completely wireless universe!) are well hidden.

4 "If you can create an efficient, hardworking space that actually looks good, you can turn a task like laundry, which most people don't enjoy, into something much more pleasurable," says Judith. Everything in a good laundry centre is within arm's reach -- drying racks, products, a pullout ironing board, even a tabletop for folding -- and it all closes away behind cupboard doors. When planning such a centre, imagine doing the tasks, noting everything you'll need as you go through each action from start to finish, and plan the space accordingly.
LESSON Don't avoid organizing utility areas. They're the backbone of the house; highly functional laundry and storage rooms will keep your house working like a well-oiled machine.