Next Big Thing: the art of storage and display

Designers are creating storage solutions that are both practical and beautiful

By Michela Colling
published

THE STORY SO FAR

It's about storage being a beautiful piece rather than just a practical necessity, from a small wall hook to entire module wall systems. With the need for multi-use spaces and compact living becoming more pressing than ever, why not make a feature out of what can't be hidden away.

Pure and simple: stack these individual boxes in a combination that fits your space

stairway with dark grey wall and cabinet with books

(Image credit: Ikea)

PS 2014 storage modules, £20 each, Ikea

Storage systems

Bespoke wall systems that allow you to show or hide your wares, such as Brilliant Project that can be adapted to suit your space and style. The Zutik by French design studio Alki is an adaptable oak beam has storage components that can be reconfigured along a wall with adaptable combinations. Never lose your keys / phone / diary again!

room with white wall and wooden shelf on wall

(Image credit: Alki)

Zutik, Alki

Architect Nils Strinnings created his wall systems in 1949, but the design feels totally contemporary. The String shelving system allows for endless combinations to suit various spaces, check out their inspiration boards for enviable arrangements.

kitchen with white wall tiles and wooden shelf on wall

(Image credit: Haus)

Shelving sytem, String range, Haus

Alternative wardrobes

Designers have updated the basic metal rail with colourful, powder-coated designs and smart wooden frames, take a look at Bethan Gray's Genevieve Hanging Rail, £399, John Lewis, and the Toj Clothes Rack, £232, Normann Copenhagen, for perfect examples. Be sure to put your Sunday best in full view!

bedroom with white wall and wooden flooring

(Image credit: &New)

'A' clothes rail in green, £474, &New

room with white wall and white tile flooring

(Image credit: Urban Outfitters)

Storage rack, Urban Outfitters

room with white wall and cutter mini wardrobe

(Image credit: Nest)

Cutter mini wardrobe, £235, Skagerak range, Nest

Shelf envy

The average floating or pine shelf will no longer do; the
growing trend for the art of displaying (and instagramming) your wares
beautifully; has created a whole new market for alternative shelf
options and creative brackets.

white wall and shelf on wall with design

(Image credit: Utility Design)

ungi shelf, from £37, Menu range, Utility Design

grey wall room with shelf on wall and plant with butterfly image

(Image credit: Graham & Green)

Wooden shelf with leather strap, from £48, Graham & Green

 

white wall with wool shelf and plant

(Image credit: Des Res Design)

Merino wool shelf brackets, £39, Des Res

Off the peg

Peg board is back, look out for colourful finishes from Block Designs and simple plain plywood, the storage solutions can be adapted with additional shelf and peg options.

pink wall with peg board and wooden desk

(Image credit: Kukka)

X-Holes round, from £84, Kukka

white wall with brush and cleaning cloth with peg board

(Image credit: Kreis Design)

Peg it all wall mounted storage, £115, Kreis Design

Michela Colling
Latest