Organize Your Lifestyle
Organizing your Home Accessories
by Sheila Sager
Most homeowners know what type of fix-up work needs to be done on their homes before the change of seasons arrives. Whether it’s
installing storm windows, painting, weatherproofing, or shutting down the irrigation system, there are plenty of exterior projects.

In addition to these larger and often times tedious tasks, there are a number of simpler and more rewarding home improvements that can be
done on the interior that will improve the appearance of your home and create a comfortable haven for enjoying the winter months.

Some simple home fix-ups to consider this fall would be:
  • Organizing Systems: Reorganizing and de-cluttering closets, drawers and cabinets will not only improve the look of your home, but
    can make it more efficient. The kitchen pantry is a great place to start as it is usually stacked with half full boxes or unlabelled
    storage bags of snacks, grains, etc. Using plastic storage containers and labels, you can easily keep track of your food inventory.
    TIP: Label makers are an inexpensive way to keep and look neatly organized (Dymo Labeler from Target is priced at $19.99)

  • Lighting: One of the most creative tools for enhancing the look of a room and creating a mood is lighting.  A free-standing lamp can
    provide a cozy reading area or outdoor patio lights can add ambiance to make your home feel more inviting.
    TIP: Place lighting in a triangular pattern to achieve balance and flow of light throughout the space and to eliminate dark corners.

  • Artwork: When hanging artwork, position the piece where it is visible when seated, not standing.  Try to have artwork or
    photographs on every other wall, leaving in between walls empty.  Notice the increased focus on the artwork.

  • Accessories: As with artwork, it’s important to display accessories on alternating surfaces. Refrain from covering every surface
    with collections, memorabilia or knick knacks---alternate with open areas:
  • Group ‘like’ items together according to color, finish or theme. 1’s, 3’s and 5’s are generally the most attractive
    combinations of objects when grouping. Place several colorful vases together on a bare shelf for a bright accent.
  • Group glass decanters on a dining room sideboard to highlight both the grouping and the furniture itself.
  • Present a small collection of objects on a lacquered or metal tray on your coffee table.

  • Scents: Scented candles or potpourri, whether fresh pine or the aroma of vanilla can greatly enhance the mood of a room and
    transform a space into a soothing retreat.

  • Area Rugs: Whether to introduce a splash of color, to anchor a furniture arrangement and clearly define the function of a room, area
    rugs are the perfect solution. They work equally well on both hardwood and carpeted floors.
    TIP: For safety and to eliminate shifting, be sure to put rubber padding under the area rugs.  Padding comes specifically made for
    either carpeted or hardwood surfaces.

Some of the best home improvements are in the finishing touches…..little things can make all the difference in making a house a home!

“Home is the ultimate expression of self” ---Thomas Jefferson


Sheila Sager, president of Organize Plus, is organizer extraordinaire! Sheila gives us great monthly advice on everything from sports
equipment in the garage to planning your holiday schedule.
About Mom on the Go ~ Contact ~ Media ~ Advertising ~ Privacy Policy ~ Copyright

© 2008 Mom on the Go  All Rights Reserved
Reproductions of any portion of this website only at the express permission of Mom on the Go.
Mom on the Go  Eden Prairie, MN  612-309-0407
Last Updated January 2008