How to organise your shoes in a creative and original way

Kayla Gulec Kayla Gulec
The Lantern, Fraher and Findlay Fraher and Findlay Modern corridor, hallway & stairs
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In many countries, there is a custom to remove your shoes before entering the home. This is a hygienic habit that we should all follow so as not to take the various street trash we collect on our shoes inside. If the shoes stay at the door, there has to be a suitable setup to house them so that the shoes are properly tidy, out of the reach, and out of sight. Simply leaving your shoes at the entrance is untidy, especially for those of you with large families or those who get frequent visitors. Besides being an eye-sore, it hinders circulation, especially in small homes.

So, in order to help you choose a beautiful and functional solution to this problem, we've put together a list of nine creative and original ways to organise your shoes. Whether it's in the mudroom, hallway, or bedroom, these ideas are worth noting. So scroll through and pick your favourite and don't forget to tell us what you decided on!

1. Bet on colour

Having pieces of furniture for storing shoes is just really practical. And sometimes, the only deciding factor on which piece of furniture to choose comes from its aesthetic factor, and that's where these two beauties come in.

Two identical structures only differing in colour laid side by side–one vertical, the other horizontal. So when it comes down to the choice, bet on colour. Choose a colour that fits in with your home's theme, or go bold with a vibrant hue that will fill your hall with energy.

2. A multi-purpose bank

In homes with large families, it seems there is never enough space. That's where this first proposal comes from–a multi-purpose bank. Multifunctional items in the home are always something to strive for, and if you're wondering why, it's already in the name. Why waste the money and space on two different items that, when combined, can give you exactly what you need? This structure not only serves as a space to arrange footwear, but also to hang coats, store hats, and organise scarves. And on top of all that, it's got a great place to sit while taking those shoes off. 

Your shoes can be arranged in the lower portion of the bank, where they are completely safeguarded and out of visual sight. This design is also easy to build yourself, so if you're feeling crafty, give it a try!

3. Basket drawers

As we've already mentioned, shoes that are scattered every which way are unaesthetic and you and your guests might trip and fall over them. But a small, mobile, discreet container, like the one we see here, can solve the problem. 

This design was inspired by IKEA design. The white shelf itself was bare before these specially sized wicker baskets were placed inside. Note that each basket has a label with the family member's name on it, signifying which basket belongs to whom. This design is ideal for avoiding those last-minute hiccups on busy mornings.

4. Use space under the stairs

The bottom of your staircase could be untapped, so why not use it to store shoes of the whole family? Use the space under the stairs to install sliding drawers that accommodate your shoes.

It's a pretty generous option, as it has considerable height and it's an ideal spot for the little ones to access.

5. A mobile rack

The simplest ideas are often the best. In this image, you can see a simple coat hanger with a simple structure, but it's adequate for organising shoes, bags, and jackets, among others. 

This is a good option for a minimalist or industrial style home, but more suitable for a single person because of its fragile structure.

6. Simple and functional

A convenient dresser with several drawers is a good choice not only to store shoes, but also as to display decorative elements in your home. And the light-coloured wood itself adds a minimalist or Scandinavian charm.

7. Behind the mirror

To optimise space, use a high and thin fitment where the shoes are vertically stacked. Instead of the traditional wooden door, take a tip from in-the-know interior designers and choose a mirrored door that visually enlarges your space.

8. A chest

At a time when vintage and retro are fashionable, nothing is better than to recover that old trunk from your grandmother's attic.  You should, however, have a generous size for the family so you can neatly store your shoes without piling them too much on top of one another. To make the most functional piece, you can add wheels to it. Then you can easily rearrange your setup whenever you decide it's time for a decor change.

9. Something for the kids

As a final thought, here's something for the kids. Kids' shoes have the power to disappear at the least convenient time, like when getting ready for school, and in that event, nothing's better than this box proposal. With this life-sized LEGO boxes, your kids will actually want to use these fun little cubbies and will take every opportunity to do so. But then again, even if you don't have children, who wouldn't flock at the opportunity to play with adult LEGOS?

If you need more organisational tips, check out these 11 creative tips for storing clothes!

Which of these ideas do you plan to use in your home? Let us know below!

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