10 genius storage ideas for kids’ spaces

Toys, books, games, artwork, found treasures—there seems to be no end to the stuff that needs storing in kids’ spaces. These popular kids’ space photos uploaded and saved to Houzz’s ideabooks in 2016 offer ideas for storing all that and more.

Which idea you would try at home?

1. Built-ins

They do require more upfront cost than free-standing furnishings, but built-in features such as the shelving and drawers shown here have several big advantages: For one, you don’t have to worry about securing heavy shelving to the wall, since built-ins will never topple over. Also, when your child outgrows the space, this elegant feature can easily be put to use holding books or a collection of decorative objects. Legacy CDM Inc.

2. Over-the-bed trinket shelf

Children love collecting small treasures — but where to put them? A slim shelf mounted above the bed provides the perfect spot for trophies, mementos and favorite toys. Danielle Sykes

3. Ikea spice rack hack

Want to boost storage potential in your child’s room on a dime? Take a cue from this smart space and put basic wooden spice racks to work as wall-mounted bookshelves. They are the perfect size for holding board books, and their slim profile means they can tuck in just about anywhere. Use one, or fill an entire wall.

Platt Architecture, PA

4. Under-the-stairs cubbies

A cool loft feature in this space gets a useful boost thanks to under-stairs storage compartments and a bonus desk area. If you’re planning to add a loft, why not make the most of it?

Newberry Architects

5. Recessed shelves

Sleek and unobtrusive, slender recessed shelving adds much-needed storage and can even stand in as a bedside table. In this space, a wallpapered feature wall visually frames the recessed shelves, which are painted warm pink to match the walls and ceiling.

Lichten Craig Architecture + Interiors

6. Color-blocked bookcase

Keeping some storage behind closed doors is a practical choice — tuck the messier-looking items in and shut the doors for a seamless look. In this modern kids’ room, the cabinet fronts alternate hues between lemon yellow and aqua for a cheery look. Ольга Шангина | Photography

7. Dollhouse shelving

A sturdy, wall-mounted bookcase in the shape of a dollhouse makes a striking home library. And when the little one’s interest turns to miniature worlds, you can move the books elsewhere and use the frame as a dollhouse. Meagan Larsen Photography

8. Clever display grid

A grid of painted plywood affixed to the wall becomes an ingenious storage solution for kids’ artwork with the simple addition of bulldog clips and clipboards. Swapping out artwork is easy when all you need to do is clip and unclip.

Pimlico Interiors

9. Cozy book nook

Have an awkward empty corner? Take a cue from this cozy space and create a tucked-away reading area, complete with shelves and sconce lighting. And while a built-in feature such as the one shown here is certainly worth the investment, it’s also possible to create a similar effect with a cushy ottoman and plenty of pillows.

Megan Trachtman

10. Sneaky below-bed shelf

Choosing a higher bed doesn’t just make younger kids feel “big,” it also lets you sneak in some bonus storage below deck. Fill an under-bed shelf with colorful matching storage boxes for a chic look; label them to make sure you remember what’s inside.

Original story by Laura Gaskill for Houzz

More from Houzz—

Bookshelves That Encourage Reading

8 Storage Solutions for Kids That Share a Room

Murphy Beds That Show the Power of Built-In Storage