5 clever storage ideas for a small dining room that does it all

This dining room is the true hub of the home where everything happens – it’s sometimes a home office, a get-ready spot or an art studio. The key is in using small, mobile storage helpers to make room for different activities. With the help of smart storage solutions, an extra small dining room can do it all – smoothly and clutter-free.

A blue PLATSA open shelving unit is mounted on a blue wall with a white FRÖSVI folding chair hanging on hooks next to it.

1. Make use of easy-access shelves and flexible lighting

Create an organised spot to work or study in the dining room with easily accessible storage by the table – like this shelving unit with every item in its designated place. Store magazine files and baskets with your office supplies on the shelves above, and dinnerware behind the doors. A flexible lamp helps with focus, and can easily be stowed away when your work is done.

See all KALLAX shelving units

A white KALLAX shelving unit stores multiple things, such as a white RISATORP baskets and three white KUGGIS magazine files.

See all KALLAX shelving units

2. Utilise small, easy-to-move storage boxes

When the dining table is also your dresser, this handy storage box with mirror lid makes putting on makeup and getting ready for the day easy. Paired with a ring light that can hold your phone – so it’s a breeze to watch and follow tutorials – you can get ready in no time.

See all make-up organisers

A LÅNESPELARE ring light with a phone holder is standing on a white table next to a SAXBORGA storage box with a mirror lid.

See all make-up organisers

3. Store cutlery, spices and sauces in small baskets

When the dining room is also your pantry, make use of baskets for a more organised space. They make it easy to carry things – like cutlery, spices and sauces – from the shelving unit to the dining table, and back again when dinner is over. This way, it’s easy to clear space and make room for other activities.

See the RISATORP series

A blue PLATSA open shelving unit has a SMARRA box with a lid and a white RISATORP basket with compartments and other things.

See the RISATORP series

4. Solve storage like puzzles

Wondering where to store folding chairs? Why not hang them on the wall? This way, the shelving unit also becomes visually ‘completed’. A pro tip from one of our interior designers: optimise your space and fill gaps when storing things but do allow for some air in between items to avoid a cluttered look.

See the PLATSA system

A blue PLATSA open shelving unit stores several baskets and a white FRÖSVI folding chair is hanging on hooks next to it.

See the PLATSA system

5. Use flexible storage on wheels

A round of applause for the ever-reliable trolley! It can store almost anything and go wherever it’s needed – including your makeshift art studio in the dining room. A MÅLA drawing paper roll is a perfect fit, and dirty palettes go into a basket and straight to the sink for an easy clean up.

See all kitchen islands & trolleys

A white NISSFORS trolley with art supplies stacked on top of it is standing in front of a blue PLATSA open shelving unit.