ADHD Girl's Guide to Interior Design Storage Solutions (from an ADHD Girly).

Living with ADHD can make organization a real challenge. It’s easy to get overwhelmed by clutter, lose track of important items, and feel like your home is in a constant state of chaos.

However, with the right storage solutions, you can create a more organized and stress-free environment that supports your needs.

This guide is designed to help you navigate storage challenges and find solutions that work specifically for someone with ADHD, from a girl with ADHD.

1. aDHD design tip 1: Visual Storage: Out of Sight, Out of Mind? Not Always!

For those with ADHD, visual reminders are key. When items are out of sight, they are often out of mind, leading to forgotten tasks or lost items. Research suggests that people with ADHD benefit from having frequently used items visible and easily accessible, reducing the mental load required to remember where things are stored.

Solution: Transparent or Open Storage

  • Use clear bins or baskets: These allow you to see the contents at a glance without having to rummage through drawers or opaque containers. A study published in Psychiatry Research found that visual cues can significantly improve task completion for individuals with ADHD .

  • Install open shelving: Open shelves in areas like the kitchen, bedroom, or office can make it easier to find and put away items. The key is to limit what goes on these shelves to avoid visual clutter, which can be just as overwhelming.

Pro Tip: Group similar items together in clear bins, and label them. For example, keep all your office supplies in one bin and your crafting materials in another. This way, you can find what you need quickly and easily.

2. aDHD design tip 2: Declutter Regularly: A Little Goes a Long Way

Clutter can be a significant source of stress for anyone, but particularly for those with ADHD. The brain already has a lot to process, and excessive clutter can lead to sensory overload and increased distractibility. Regular decluttering can help maintain a more organized environment, making it easier to focus on what matters.

Solution: Set Up a Decluttering Schedule

  • Small, consistent efforts: Research indicates that people with ADHD benefit from breaking down large tasks into smaller, manageable ones. According to a study in the Journal of Attention Disorders, consistent, short bursts of activity are more effective than trying to tackle everything at once .

  • One-in, one-out rule: To prevent clutter from accumulating, adopt a simple rule: for every new item you bring into your home, get rid of one old item. This can help you maintain a balanced amount of belongings.

  • Daily or weekly 'tidy-up' sessions: Schedule regular times to tidy up your space. Even 10 minutes a day can make a big difference. The Journal of Occupational Therapy found that routine and structure are vital in helping individuals with ADHD manage their environment effectively .

Pro Tip: Keep a donation bin in a closet or garage. As you come across items you no longer need, toss them into the bin. Once it’s full, take it to your local charity shop.

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At FBD Interiors, our main focus is creating spaces that are both elevated and realistic for your lifestyle. And we walk through every step of the process right alongside you - whether it’s a room refresh, a new kitchen, or a full home makeover/build.

We design functional, thoughtful, and beautiful homes, fit for real life.

3. aDHD design tip 3: Designated Zones: Everything in Its Place

Creating designated zones for different activities or categories of items can simplify organization and reduce decision fatigue, a common challenge for those with ADHD. Knowing exactly where things belong can make it easier to maintain order and reduce the time spent searching for lost items.

Solution: Create 'Homes' for Your Belongings

  • Activity-specific zones: For instance, have a designated area for bill-paying, crafting, or reading. Keep all the necessary supplies in that zone so you’re not running around the house trying to gather what you need. The Journal of Learning Disabilities reports that structure and routine can significantly improve productivity and reduce anxiety for individuals with ADHD .

  • Drop zones: Create a drop zone by the entrance of your home for keys, bags, and mail. This way, you won’t waste time searching for these items when you’re heading out the door.

  • Bedroom zones: Designate specific areas for different tasks in your bedroom, such as a dressing area, a reading nook, or a space for journaling. Keeping these areas organized will help you switch gears more smoothly.

Pro Tip: Label each zone with its function, especially if multiple people use the space. This not only helps you remember where things go but also encourages others to follow the same system.

Organizing a home can be challenging, especially when living with ADHD, but it’s far from impossible.

By implementing visual storage solutions, maintaining a regular decluttering routine, and creating designated zones for your belongings, you can create a more structured and peaceful living environment. These strategies not only help in keeping your space tidy but also in reducing stress and improving your ability to focus.

Remember, the goal isn’t perfection; it’s about creating a space that works for you and supports your unique needs. Start small, be patient with yourself, and celebrate your progress along the way.