I am finding it increasingly difficult to do design projects because people have too much stuff. Unless I'm doing a new and empty space, it's become really impossible to wade through stuff so I can assess first and then do a floor plan.
I stumble over things, can't measure properly because of all the shit that is around.
I feel very strongly that adults put their things away.
There is a difference between well placed objects (like if you collect things) and piles of crap.
It's difficult in NY because space is a problem. I walk in the door and bump into open strollers, bookbags, briefcases, shoes, vacuum cleaners. PUT IT AWAY or close it up and stick in a corner.
If you leave shoes at the front door - get an attractive basket.
If you have newspapers and magazines piled up - place them in an attractive basket or holder.
Have one place to keep all the mail.
If you buy new clothes and shoes and your closets are busting open - throw out or give away some things.
Use those space saving bags for winter bedding. They are amazing. You suck out all the air and it becomes as flat as a pancake. Reopen the bag and fluff them up.
You don't need every pot and pan you've ever bought. Purge!
Clean out bookcases and arrange the books so they look attractive.
Use drawer organizers if you can't keep socks and underwear looking tidy.
Video tapes and DVD's can be placed in boxes with lids.
Take pride in your home. You worked hard to pay for it.
I don't mean to sound like Martha. I was so frustrated today that I couldn't do what I needed to do. The client wants me to decorate and help them organize. I can already tell that when it's completed, six months later you wouldn't be able to tell I was ever there.