Jumbles of games, photo albums, and magazine in open cupboards cause that messy toy box look in the family room. An easy way to hide the clutter is to make stretched fabric panels that fit snugly into the cupboards. Constructs the frames from fir 1 by 2s trimmed to fit inside open cupboards, with 1/8 inch to spare all around. Stretch and staple fabric to frames, and attach small ribbon tabs to the tops. Then simply wedge each panel into place. To open pull on the ribbon tab. Use a boldly printed fabric, if the room needs an accent or coordinate the material with the draperies or upholstery.
Pivoting guest bed
A storage system that doubles as a guest room, it’s possible with a pair of Murphy beds mounted on pivot book-shelves, and a desk. When is guest arrive the shelf and the guest areas spin to reveal the pull down single beds attached to their backs, complete with framed pictures. When pulled down, the beds rest on hinged legs. Lights swing down for reading and up when the beds are stored. The cabinets double as small clothes closets with shelves on top for bedding.
Six way storage
An ingenious example of space-saving storage, this wood paneled, freestanding unit performs a number of functions. On the bottom, a large bin for firewood hides behind a collage of log ends. Lower the panels in front of the center section and you have a pivoting television on a pull out platform. The panel is mounted on spring tension sash window tracks. Above the television there’s a bookshelves and display niche. Diagonal paneling used over the entire unit makes a handsome background for a picture. At the very top, you can show off your favorite plants.