Back-to-School '20; Sanity Saving Inspiration
If I may start…. let’s address the elephant in the room?! We know this year is unlike any other, our children/friends or family will be going back-to-school in a completely different situation than EVER before. Our hearts go out to all of the parents and students that are making the unprecedented decisions, on whether they will be attending school or going virtually this year (like our very own Dupert Family.) This is not a decision to take lightly and it is heavy burden to bare. There is no question that all children are effected by the disruption in schooling that not only affects their learning- but their physical, mental and emotional health & for some, their security/access to food. The most negative effects are seen in children living in poor/impoverished communities, children with different learning styles/disabilities and children in isolated/rural areas. {click HERE to see how you can support local Sioux Falls students, by participating in the Feeding South Dakota- Backpack Program}
While there are no right or wrong answers- we know it is imperative to make the decision that is best for your specific situation (based on your own family’s risks, options and needs.) So we feel that now, more than ever- is a time to cover our students, parents, families, teachers/school/government leaders in prayer. We pray for increased development/understanding of tools for educators/students that are helpful and useful, while addressing students' social and emotional needs. We pray for working parents, that disruptions in scheduling do not harm their ability to participate in the workforce. We pray for decision makers, to work together to figure out how to continue quality education in the safest/best way possible. We pray for increased health/strength for all students and teachers- in Jesus Name!
Back to front: Riley, Peyton & Braylin- first day of virtual school; 2020
Is the kitchen island cluttered with old mail? Or is the front door a disaster area of coats, keys, bags and shoes? Creating a family landing area/command center saves you time- it helps everyone get out of the house in the morning rush and keeps your kitchen “virtually” clutter-free (see what I did there?) However you/your children are attending school this year, let’s admit that things are about to get CRAZY and the house is going to get pretty messy. These tips & tricks are going to help you to stay organized and save your SANITY!
Transform your family “Catchall” into a “DROP-ZONE”
Meeting your storage needs in a small entryway can be a challenge, especially if your home lacks a designated mudroom or foyer space. Any entryway can quickly turn into a jumbled pile of coats, bags, keys, mail/homework and shoes. The area around your main entrance needs to function as a drop zone for everyday items when you are rushing in and out of your home. A well designed entry should also provide spots for storing lesser-used items such as sporting goods and out-of-season accessories. To turn a small entryway into a hardworking storage space that accomplishes all of these tasks, you'll need to bring in some smart solutions. These entryway storage ideas will boost function, save overall space and really make the most of your front door. Our designers have come up with some simple/quick and inexpensive ideas to create your own drop-zone, over a weekend!!!
Create a One-Wall Solution: One wall is all you need for an effective storage area but space must be used thoughtfully. Create a mini mudroom, by bringing in a bench to provide a spot to sit and kick off shoes. Hang hooks at varying heights to accommodate items (and keep them in reach for all family members.) Try baskets underneath to house smaller footwear like sneakers and sandals. A large bulletin board keeps track of important papers, the family calendar and proudly displays kids artwork. Wall-mounted file folders organizes incoming/outgoing mail for easy access. If your short on space think vertically, open shelving makes efficient use of floor-to-ceiling space and allows you to keep frequently used items in plain sight.
Doing Double-Duty: If your front door opens into the kitchen, create a hybrid area designed for both meal prep and entryway storage. A simple cart holds cooking supplies, artwork adds personality and seating increases the area's functionality. Add entryway functionality to your laundry area by turning an unused corner into a cozy catchall and attractive containers store small items out of sight but easily within reach. Instantly create a message center to suit your grab-and-go lifestyle. Coat one side of a bookcase with high-gloss paint and leave messages with dry-erase markers or attach a magnetic bulletin board below for a practical color pop that allows you to post photos and reminders.
Extend/Rethink a Small Entryway: If the space around your front door is tight- extend your entryway storage around the corner where there's more room. Get creative with a fun display of hooks, shelves and mirrors that function as both storage and decor. Another quick remedy for this situation is a simple, slim-fit bookcase right inside the door or at the end of an entry hall. Entryway Closet? Turn your coat closet into a mini mudroom! Coat/shoe racks, storage bins and floating shelves boost function in this small entryway storage solution. Bring in your personal style with a fun wallpaper pattern and accent rug. Cork tiles form a simple, attractive bulletin board solution (apply with self-adhesive strips for easy installation and removal.)
Save Space; Combine Seating & Storage: Combine seating and storage for ultimate space-saving efficiency. Try a set of storage ottomans that provide space for taking off shoes, while the lids conceal out of season items (maximize function with mobility by attaching casters.) A built-in bench or cubby provides streamlined, simple storage and seating. Cover your seat cushions in outdoor fabric for extra durability and stain resistance. Don't take up precious floor space with bulky cabinets, instead, look for narrow units that don’t disrupt traffic flow. Utilize your walls- stick to hanging organizers, hooks and floating shelves. To prompt a timely departure, consider hanging a clock or placing one on a shelf visibly in the entryway.
Convenience/Organization with Bins, Drawers, Cubbies & Baskets: Gather loose items inside baskets or bins by the door. Small basket are perfect for catching wallets, keys and other daily items as you enter. Designate and clearly label baskets with the specific season, person or category. Use stackable, lidded boxes or amp up the style with woven wicker/wire baskets (their open design makes it easy to spot what you need, from a distance.) Subdivide drawers to keep office supplies organized for on-the-go needs. Vertical shelf dividers provide ideal spots for organizing mail and paperwork or use magazine files/binders to keep loose papers contained. Your entryway is a prime spot for storing pet gear- neatly corral dog toys, out of sight.
Shop our Favorite Drop-Zone pieces (BELOW)
1) Metal Modern Hall Tree: Bed, Bath & Beyond
2) Stackable Square Glass Display Boxes: Target
3) Gold Desk Organizer With Tray: World Market
4) Metal Coat Rack w/Storage Basket: Kalalou
5) Metal Stand w/Basket: Kalalou
6) Leather/Gold Letter Holder: World Market
7) Golden Eye Desk Clock: World Market
8) Metal Desk w/Recycled Wood Drawers: Kalalou
9) Gold Wire Wall Organizer: World Market
10) Natural Rope Basket w/Leather Straps: Target
11) Metal & Wood Shelf w/Bamboo Rack: Kalalou
12) Wooden Storage Bins w/Metal Baskets: Target
13) Live Edge Hook Wall Rack: World Market
14) Bench w/Totes & Cushion: Bed, Bath & Beyond
Our Designers want to HELP
Here at Omorfia, our desire is to make life better and more BEAUTIFUL for you! Hopefully we’ve shown you that if clutter is crashing in on you- that even with a small space, a small budget and limited time- you can get organized, in style! If you aren’t sure how to get started or need to remodel your entryway closet to organize the chaos, start by chatting with us in a FREE 30-minute phone consultation or schedule a personal {$99/2 hour} appointment with one of our designers. Call us at 605-223-0193 OR go to omorfiadesignsinc.com/getstarted
Office Organization Tips
If you are like many people, you spend a good portion of your day in your office. Work days can be long, and the amount of time you spend in your office often matches the time you can spend out of the office. With spending so much time in your office, it can be essential to make sure it’s a comfortable and well-organized place to do business.
If you are like many people, you spend a good portion of your day in your office. Work days can be long, and the amount of time you spend in your office often matches the time you can spend out of the office. With spending so much time in your office, it can be essential to make sure it’s a comfortable and well-organized place to do business.
A neat and organized office can go a long way toward making your workday more productive. Feeling at home in your workspace as well as being able to find the items you need can help you work more efficiently and effectively. Accomplishing more during your workday can reduce stress and give you a boost of morale when it comes to keeping up with day to day tasks and productivity.
While the benefits of office organization are clear, you might need a little help figuring out what you can do to get your office in perfect working order. In addition to organization, styling your office to reflect who you are can make it a more comfortable and relaxing place to be.
If you aren’t sure where to start, Omorfia Designs Inc can consult with you to come up with the perfect plan to personalize and organize your workspace. A free thirty-minute phone consultation can start transforming your workspace into the organized and stylish place it should be.
If you are looking to get some inspiration for creating an organized workspace right away, these office organization tips will give you some great ideas to implement.
It’s Time to Purge
First things first: before you can get your office to the point you want, you’ll need to declutter, throw-out, remove, and purge anything you don’t need or use. Offices can accumulate a lot of unnecessary paperwork, supplies, and junk. You’ll need to make some time to thoroughly evaluate the items in your office and make the decision to part ways with anything you no longer need.
Stacks of paper all over your desk can be overwhelming. As you work through the piles, commit yourself to take action on every piece to avoid a continuous pile-up. Either file, shred or take action on it however you need.
Starting with a clean slate is a fantastic way to get the ball rolling and create a space that’s fresh, accessible, and neatly organized. Once you have had time to go through the stacks of paperwork, random personal items, and office supplies, you’ll be able to create a more efficient and functional work environment.
Ensure You have Proper Storage
Without adequate storage, it will be challenging to organize your office. Everything needs to have a home in your office, or else you’ll struggle to keep it tidy. You may need to invest in some handy storage bins, shelves, or desk organizers.
Having the right storage systems in place allows you to create various stations throughout your office. You can establish a designated area for mail, files, to-dos, work in progress, and more. You can customize these areas to your daily tasks to ensure you have the right stations for the job.
Keep Your Desk Clear
Office organization begins with where you sit for a majority of the day: your desk. Keeping your desk clear of clutter can help you stay productive, think clearly, and find things quickly. Commit to putting items away when you are done using them and storing them in the new spaces you create.
Clean out your desk drawers as well, allowing you to better utilize and store items in them for easy access and smooth stream of work. Stock your drawers with the office supplies you frequently use, so it’s right at your fingertips. Use drawer organizers to keep the supplies separate and easy to find.
Add a Personal Touch
When you spend all day in an office, you will want to have decor that reflects your style and makes you feel comfortable, productive, and upbeat. Adding items that inspire you and keep your office a pleasant space will increase productivity and likely elevate your mood while working.
Consider a theme or color to focus on and use accent items to highlight areas of your office. You may or may not be able to paint the walls of your office, but you can bring in an area rug, artwork, or other accessories to add color and brighten up the room.
Another fantastic way to add a personal touch to your office is to bring in some indoor plants. Succulents are a low-maintenance, stylish way to incorporate some greenery and life to your office. You can also include them in the decor by selecting planters that fit your theme or color scheme.
Make Your Space Personal and Useable
Whether considering an office makeover to achieve better office organization or to add some decor to personalize your space, a happier, organized workspace is the key to being productive during your work day and accomplishing your goals.
When operations can run smoothly because of your organization, and you can feel comfortable and motivated in your office, your workday will become more pleasant and enjoyable. The amount of time you spend in an office calls for some personalization, organization, and fabulous decor to keep you working successfully and efficiently.
If you are ready to rethink your office space, Omorfia is ready to bring beauty to your office and can provide ideas and style that will customize and improve your office. Creating workspaces that are effective, functional, and of course, attractive and stylish is our goal.
With over ten years of experience and a commitment to excellent service, we can work with you to get your office organized and looking fabulous. We are here to listen to your ideas and needs and put them into action creating a beautiful and exceptional workspace, and give you office organization tips.
Contact us today to set up your free thirty-minute consultation. We can’t wait to work with you and create the space you’ve been dreaming of at your office.