However, you deserve to come home to a space that’s equal parts functional and beautiful, no matter how many other individuals live under your roof. We spoke with designers to gather their tips for successfully keeping your space looking stylish, even when there’s always a crowd. Then, add some simple touches to the front hallway that make the area nice and inviting, Bay Area designer Melanie Love suggested in an email. “Set the tone of your home’s aesthetic with a beautiful mirror, rug, and decorative light fixture at the entry,” she said. “If you have natural light and enough space, consider adding a live plant.” Of course, the actual storage pieces can be visually appealing on their own, Phoenix designer Lygia Harkins noted in an email. “Lockers and built-ins are always a good idea, but of course we want them to look pretty, too,” she said. “Paint them a fun color that everyone likes for the room or space.” In today’s world, it’s extremely easy for those of all ages to share ideas with one another through platforms such as Pinterest—gone are the days of tearing pages out of design magazines, though your family may enjoy doing that, too! Make the brainstorming process an enjoyable activity, not one that seems like a chore. Even if it takes awhile to bring your entire organizational concept to fruition, everyone will appreciate having been a part of the planning. Housemates may also wish to consolidate bulky items such as vacuum cleaners, which can easily be shared—pool your money together to purchase the best option you can afford, and you’ll thank yourselves come cleaning day! And if certain pieces can’t be stored easily, perhaps this is a sign! “In a multi-functional area, keeping the space clutter free is key,” Erin Hardy, the national manager of design at California Closets said in an email. “If it doesn’t fit in the designated shelf or bin, then it doesn’t belong in the space.”
