storage Archives - Emily A. Clark

A “Pretty” Backyard Storage Building

Aug92016

I snapped these pictures of the storage building in my parents’ backyard when we visited earlier in the Summer and thought it might provide a little inspiration for those of you considering something similar. Truth be told, they’ve had this building for a long time, but I guess storage sheds weren’t always on the forefront of my mind when I was living at home. . . But, now that I’m a “little” older, I can appreciate pretty storage when I see it.

My parents used an old Southern Living plan when they had it built and painted it to match the exterior of their house. My kids think it’s their own personal workshop when we visit and make all kinds of treats for us with what they find.

(Their back door & the world’s biggest topiary tree. . .)

The back of the building has double doors so that they can pull in their riding mower. (The huge tree, by the way, came home as a seedling in a cup with my mom when she first went back to work after we were all in school.) The antique iron window guards were salvaged from my dad’s great aunt’s house.

My dad recently found the big metal storage cabinet on one of his thrift store trips. He also keeps a big bulletin board with magazine tear-outs and advice from Martha. . .

And, why hasn’t one of us stolen that tole chandelier for our houses yet?

I keep telling him if he’ll add some insulation, it would be the perfect tiny house—or getaway when we all come home for Christmas. ;)

Stylish Storage Finds At WalMart

Jan192015

In the middle of a closet clean-out last week, I ran to Walmart to look for a couple of storage baskets. I was surprised at how many good options I found. A lot of them looked very “Container Store-esque” but at better price points.

image: Better Homes & Gardens

Here are some of the best ones I found in-store and online. (I bought the smaller-sized galvanized bins for my hall closet for under $7 each.)

1 // 2 // 3 // 4 // 5 // 6 // 7 // 8 // 9 // 10 // 11

Stylish Storage (for Legos and other stuff. . . )

Feb112011

image via Where My Heart Resides

Although not a new trend in decorating, I’ve been thinking lately about using vintage suitcases in our house. I’ve seen them successfully used as great nightstands and end tables, but my mind started racing after I saw this image in the February issue of Country Living. How great would these be for toy cars, Legos, art supplies–the list goes on and on. And, most are slim enough to tuck away under the bed.

Country Living

While browsing for more vintage suitcase inspiration, I also came across some other great ideas. I love the character and charm they bring into a space:

Oakland’s Waterfront Hotel

Country Living

Speaking of suitcases, is anybody going away for Valentine’s weekend? I’ll be taking advantage of the warmer weather and spending time with some spray paint–which makes me a happy girl :)