How to organise your home using the KonMari method
Tidy up your kit and be rewarded with a cleaner home and clearer mind – the secret to a calm and well-ordered space is good storage.
Kon-Mari method
When life’s feeling a little messy, having a well-organised home is the first step to success. A space that’s equal parts stylish and ordered is about more than just impressing guests; good storage and clutter-free surfaces will create a sense of serenity and flow.
To become a master of organisation – and make the best use of your available storage – channel your inner Marie Kondo, whose celebrated KonMari method can help transform chaotic homes. KonMari consultant Gemma Quinn shares her tidy-up tips for a home that helps you live your best life.
Let’s get started!
Gemma describes the KonMari method as a future-focused positive tool used to tidy, declutter and organise. It guides you to make decisions on what to keep and what to let go of, based on your personal values and beliefs, and what brings you joy.
To begin your journey of decluttering and organisation, first commit to improving the way your life functions and flows. Gemma suggests visualising or creating a Pinterest board of your ideal life and what you want to achieve. This allows you to keep your eye on that goal when faced with the difficult decision of what to keep.
Take baby steps
After committing, the KonMari method outlines tackling your possessions in this order:
- Clothing
- Books
- Paper
- Komono (things)
- Sentimental items
Split each of these into sub-categories and work from easiest to hardest; this makes your task of organisation more manageable. Sticking to the order will allow you to refine your skills in selecting what truly improves your life, preparing you to deal with the more functional and sentimental items next.
Let it go
Find three items that spark genuine joy to use as a guide when you find yourself struggling to decide on the value of a possession. Gemma says when considering, you need to be honest with yourself – don’t think about how much it cost, who bought it for you and what obligations might be associated with it. “Find a charity that’s close to your heart. This will allow you to let go of things because you know you’re helping people,” she says.
Maximise space
An awkward understair area can become a practical and pleasant study nook with clever shelving, attractive storage, work-appropriate lighting and a benchtop desk. “Storing vertically makes the best use of space as it contains the items, making for efficient organisation,” says Gemma. “If done properly, you can use 90 per cent of your storage space.”
Try out modular living
Our homes increasingly serve multiple functions – including as an office. Maintain order with a modular study zone to keep your work out of sight when dinnertime draws near. This could be as simple as a large basket in which to pack your work supplies at the end of each day.
Get creative
Set aside a peaceful spot in your bedroom for journal or letter writing. Having a designated place for the laptop and paperwork keeps other areas of the home purely for relaxation. “Storing objects in a consistent and beautiful manner eliminates visual noise and allows you to focus on your goals,” explains Gemma.
Hang a garden
‘S’ hooks, hanging pots and pretty plants can turn a clothes rack into a vertical garden. Small homes can still be filled with greenery – hanging baskets are perfect for filling vertical spaces. House possessions in boxes and baskets for easy access – store lighter boxes on top shelves.
Give love to the laundry
Even practical rooms such as laundries benefit from a touch of tranquility! Baskets help keep spaces clutter free. This is especially true in the laundry where a range of sizes can help contain all the little bits and pieces that tend to end up here.
Perfect your pantry
Put all foods of the same type together, shelf by shelf, with the items you use most closest to hand. Use containers in just a few colours for a cohesive look.
More storage inspiration
For a personalised solution to desk organisation try hanging a mesh grid with our how-to video.
Photo Credit: Cath Muscat
