This is an easy project we did for my mom last fall. She has a kitchen pantry that is approximately 2ft. by 4ft., with the door opening on the 4ft. wide side. The shelves that were originally installed went the full 4ft. across the pantry, but they were also very deep. Since the door was only about 2ft. wide, this left each side, the rear, and especially the back corners of each shelf very difficult to access. Light was also kept from reaching the back of the pantry, adding to the visibility problems.

The deep shelf at the top of the doorway also provided an extra obstacle when trying to make use of any space in the upper level of the pantry. Large items would not fit between the top of the doorway and the shelf.

Bi-fold Door Shelves

We ran across a low budget living room makeover article on HGTV.com the other day, and found this idea for great looking, inexpensive bookshelves.

The homeowners used several sets of salvaged bi-fold closet doors, to work as the back and the sides of the bookcase. They added lumber to form the top, bottom, and shelves. Then they added crown molding to the front and sides for accents, and placed them on both sides of the picture window.

Elastic Bookshelf

Just when you think, "What will they come up with next?"...you get something like this. Here is an elastic bookshelf. Made by stretching band of elastic material across two pegs on a wall. Items can be stuck between the top and bottom section. Boxes are also shown in the band, then items placed inside the box.

We don't know the most practical use for something like this, but Arianna Vivenzioit has definitely provided a brand new take on an age old storage dilemma.

Dot Wood Coat Hooks

Here is a product we pulled directly from Apartment Therapy. It's Dots Wood Coat Hooks from Tveit & Tornoe design studio. They come in a package of 5 and can be arranged in any pattern you choose.

TaskWatch Whiteboard Clock

Here is a straightforward item that seem almost genius in its simplicity. Though it defies most of our storage categories, we still wanted to include it efficient use of space.

A creative product, where you can leave notes or even schedule your day if you like. We thought it might even inspire someont to create their own by adding a simple clock mechanism to a whiteboard. Send us pics if you do, so we can show it off!

Hook and Mail Panels

UtiliTILE by Thout Design is a solid wood storage system that mounts to the wall, allowing various modular plates to attach to it, each providing a unique purpose.

Some panels provide flip out shelves for mail on pocket items, small hooks for coats or bags, and smaller shelves for spices or fruits. When not in use, the hooks and shelves can be flipped up flush with the tile. One tile is can be removed from the system to provide a small TV try to fit on your lap when eating. It attaches to the wall by magnets. Other panels provide storage for kitchen silverware, mirrors, or lighting for the surrounding area.

And this year's winner of 'Who can fit the most stuff in the smallest space' is...

Before After

Casulo! Casulo is a furniture concept that shows what is possible by stretching the limits of modern construction. This example displays how an armoire, a desk, a height-adjustable stool, two more stools, a six-shelf bookcase, and a bed with a mattress can fit all fit into one easily stored or transported box. The actual box is formed from the different furniture it envelopes, preventing the need for additional shipping material.

This feature is a little off from normal storage devices, but we like the simplicity of construction, and it's ability to be stored in a compacted area.

Piccolo Table

This table by nobody and co is made of steel and teak wood, and can extend to twice it's length by separating the staves. Or it, and it's accompanying bench, can be stored or used in half the space by pushing it back together.

The concept is very simple, but it allows additional versatility over standard tables. It's not suited for every situation, but it might work out great for other multi-use areas.

The Piola Wall Bookcase by nobody & co presents an artistic take on conventional book shelves.

Piola Bookcase

Large square pegs poke out perendicularly from the back, each level offset from the one above and below it, provides an interesting display for large illustrated books, such as coffee table and cookbooks.

Bibliochaise

Nobody & Co's new creation allows you a place to read, and storage for a large number of books within arm's reach.

Though comfort looks like it is compromised considerably in this example, the concept of turning unused space into valuable storage area is something we feel should continue to be explored.