- 1). Measure the interior dimensions of the armoire. The objective is to determine the amount of space and how to use it for storage. Put the end of the tape measure inside the cabinet against one side wall and extend the tape to the other side wall. Place the tape measure against the back wall and extend the tape to the inside of the front wall. If the cabinet is an irregular shape (perhaps it curves out in front), take the smallest measurement. (This is the farthest a shelf could project from the back). Measure the interior height from the floor to the ceiling. Measure the width of the door. Note the measurements.
- 2). Draw the armoire and plan the design of the interior space. Make a note of
the door width. For ease of access plan to use storage cubes and shelves that allow some clearance at the front. - 3). Assess the items to store in the armoire and consider how to divide the space. For example, if media storage boxes are a foot wide, note how many of them you have so you can plan how many cubes you'll need for them. Make room for a set of 18-inch tall vases by drawing a rectangle on the plan and mark the width and height needed.
- 4). Organize the plan by putting items used the most often in the central area, heavy items at floor level, and items needed less often at the top and to the far sides (such as extra computer cables and holiday decorations). Label the areas on the plan and consult a storage system catalog to plan a size for each one.
- 5). Take the plan and measurements with you to shop. Check organizer stores and get some storage cubes and rectangles to fit. Allow at least 4-inch clearance in the front of the cabinet when you decide on sizes. For example, if the armoire is 24 inches deep, get storage inserts that aren't more than 20 inches deep so you will be able to reach into them when they are in place. Clearance also makes set-up easier.
- 6). Arrange the storage inserts in the armoire according to plan. Organize your items in the dividers and close the doors on it all.
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