House Beautiful, October 2005, "the makeover issue"

DECORATING | HOW TO...

Eliminate Clutter: The definition of clutter, says designer Amy Lau, is anything you posses that does not enhance your life on a regular basis. Here are her tips for tidying up your life
Climbing the walls: Think horizontally: Install a grouping of floating shelves over a credenza for photos and books. Maximize volume by using wall space wisely. Think vertically: Install shelving 12 to 18 inches below the ceiling and display an interesting collection.
Hide away: Conceal anything without visual appeal. Opt for bookcases with doors and choose end or bedside tables with a closed base. A wall unit with open and closed compartments can cover up audio-visual equipment, and also provide room for decorative displays.
Color-coordinate: Harmonize spaces by grouping objects together by color. When buying accessories like leather storage boxes, CD organizers, picture frames, or even a throw, keep a dominant color scheme in mind. The result will look streamlined and ordered.
Love it or Leave it: Take stock of the items in your home and be scrupulous about what to keep. Require your objects to defend their purpose-do you adore it? Use it? If either does not apply, lose it. Minimize large goods like furniture, which can make space appear cluttered.
Double duty: Multitasking isn't a chore that should be limited to people. Find furniture that couples flair with multiple functions, like a secretary with drawers and desktop, a coffee table with shelves, or an ottoman or bench with a hidden storage compartment.
Tear it up: Buy a shredder and dispose of junk mail as soon as it arrives, and file bills and correspondence appropriately. Admit to yourself that you will not read three-week old newspapers and pack them for recycling. A wire or straw basket will keep piles tidy between trash days.