I have written many times about my indifference toward plastic storage. Why choose acrylic over rattan or wicker? My opinion has always been that if storage is on display, it needs to double as décor – and that means no plastic. That was until I saw this cozy, color-drenched home office.
Fitted with built-in cupboards that house shelves of plastic containers, this eclectic home office, designed by Charlotte Boundy, has made me reconsider my storage solutions. In her space, the plastic containers (the SmartStore Compact Boxes in Medium from Amazon) look chic and purposeful, chosen for their lightweight and unobtrusive feel. They blend seamlessly into her design studio without appearing bulky – a design decision as well as a practical one.
I had to know more, so I got in touch with Charlotte to get her insider insight on why she chose this type of storage and her tips for making it look chic.
While it's not hard to spot a wicker basket in a designer's project, plastic storage bins aren't exactly known for their aesthetic virtues. However, after seeing Charlotte's charming work-from-home space, I've become convinced that even the most basic storage vessels can be both practical and attractive.
Charlotte explains that she used the SmartStore Compact Boxes in Medium from Amazon to organize her workspace. 'In a small space, organization is key, so see-through fabric sample boxes keep everything tidy and easy to find.'
Housed in the burgundy-painted bookshelves, the clear storage feels unobtrusive and seamless, serving its purpose while allowing the broader design details to shine. While acrylic might not be a style-led choice when sourcing storage, it's perfect if you're looking for something "invisible" and easy to style.
Much like Charlotte's plastic bins, these storage containers are perfect if you've got lots of small items to store. Fill them with patterned paper or fabric to make them extra pretty.
Charlotte continues, 'When I moved house, it was essential to find a home with space for my work, and this third bedroom proved the perfect solution as a light-filled studio,' she tells me. 'Once a dingy, damp makeshift walk-in closet, I fixed a leaky roof, knocked down the closet, and added a second window overlooking my south-facing garden. I then designed a built-in desk with a generously sized storage cupboard and open shelving.'
And it's not just the storage bins that make the space feel neat; shelving under the desk provides extra storage, hidden by a skirted curtain. 'I added a curtain made from ticking fabric found at The Cloth Shop. It hides yet more storage and project boxes while also creating the perfect space for my whippet, Pig, to sleep while I work.'
She adds, 'I painted the woodwork in Farrow & Ball Reddish Brown gloss against Light Blue walls, which act as a neutral backdrop for two large pinboards covered in fabric samples across the other walls.'
Home Office Storage Picks
So I am convinced, clear plastic containers are not the eyesore I once thought. Charlotte's use of simple, sleek, almost invisible clear storage has me thinking I should try switching out my rattan boxes, especially when space is tight and I need to avoid adding any visual bulk.
Perfect for stationery, The Container Store's All-Purpose Clear Bins are ieal for open shelving or keeping cupboards organized. Fill them with office supplies for a work-from-home space that works hard and serves its purpose.
These stackable drawers will transition into any home office with the utmost ease. Designed to be stacked away, they're the right slimline size for pens or craft supplies.
Easy to access, these acrylic storage bins feature an open front that makes them a delight to use. Best for smaller essentials, they're just right for filling open shelving without compromising your interior design style.
A delightfully inspiring home office that comes to life through its playful colors and nifty layout, it's a reminder that even the simplest storage solutions can work in harmony with a design.
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