Most of our garage organizing projects involve sorting and finding storage solutions for categories like bikes and sport equipment, tools, holiday and seasonal items, and long term storage items, but recently we worked with a client in Atherton with some very unique priorities for their garage space. This family with two young boys loves to throw big, themed parties for their sons and their friends and classmates, so the majority of their five car garage was devoted to storage space for party supplies.
The disorganization in the garage was making it difficult to plan, set up, and break down all of their parties. To fix this, our goals for the session were to sort out all the supplies and set up an organization system that would make it easier for both the family and their party planner to see what they have already, what they need to get, and put it all back when each party is over.
FIRST STEP: Pull it all out! We emptied the garage onto the driveway and began the process of sorting and purging. It was all hands on deck at this stage of the project and the driveway turned into chaos but that’s the way it goes. It’s gotta look worse before it looks better…
While the Taylor, Haleigh, and myself were working with the client to decide what to keep and what to give away, the guys put together gorilla racks and unloaded storage bins to hold everything.
SECOND STEP: Step up a system! We decided to set up the racks in a U-shape that created an aisle that the family and their party planner could shop from for supplies. This configuration also served to create a more clearly designated space for the party supplies so they wouldn’t end up spilling over into areas meant for bikes, cars, and tools.
THIRD STEP: Purge! We went down memory lane during this client (as we always do) and relived many of her fabulous events. It was tough for her to say goodbye to so many of the great props and decor but in the end she was a champ, filling up our white box truck and transit van 2 times EACH with donations, gotta love that!
FOUTH STEP: Get organized! Once the shelving was built and the sorting and purging was done we got to work reorganizing the space so that it would be as functional as it would be Pinterest worthy!
We also chose to use clear bins in a couple different sizes for this project. This allowed for easy visibility without the need for labels so that bins can be effortlessly repurposed as the party themes and supplies change and evolve with the family. Clear, unlabeled bins also allow for more flexibility and creativity during the party planning process. Instead of being labeled by only one theme, bins of pool towels, feather boas, and disposable serving ware can be used for different party themes all year long!
Hello gorgeous!
I understand that this garage isn’t relatable for most of you reading the blog today but you have to admit it is a bit of a Candyland for all things entertaining! I know it makes me want a party garage!
I should also point out that the garage door that we are blocking is the back exit, this is a 5 car garage. There are two tandem spots and a single spot on the far left where a car is parked.
Tables stay in the center of the shelving for easy prep and planning space. They can easily be collapsed and moved for events as well.
Cheers to another organized garage! It amazing what we were able to accomplish in a single session!
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