InPlace Winter 2010

inplace FREE

winter

clothes airers the real deal

Wardrobe makeover the results are in!

The scoop: laundry gadgets issue no. 3

Deskercise: a tale of two desks

Organasm

or-gun-az-um

The excitement brought on by an organised home.

Getting organised can seem like a chore. However, at Howards Storage World, we aim to make being organised a pleasure. Having an organised home can instantly lift your mood and energy level, giving you peace of mind and a sense of control.

With more than 3,000 products, specialist advice and personal service, Howards can help you become more organised. Discover the excitement of being more organised. It’s never too late to begin.

Store locations Online shopping Franchise opportunities

hsw.com.au Freecall 1300 666 616

inplace winter

PLAN AND GET ORGANISED

CREATE SPACE AND STORE

4 It’s Winter. Get cosy!

Organise your living room with this stepby-step plan to add calm and cosiness just in time for the cooler weather.

15 My favourite buy Who better than a couple who have run a successful Howard Storage World store for a decade to reveal some smart Howards buys.

6 Warm inside and out Nothing says comfort more than a bowl of soup, consumed on the sofa in the warmth of an organised home. Try our recipe.

8 elfa® wardrobe makeover The results are in on our reader competition to transform a wardrobe using $3,000 of elfa® products and the work of three experts.

16 Deskercise: a tale of two desks Did you know there are two distinct styles of office worker? Find out which one you are and which products will help you make the most of your space.

SORT AND SAVE TIME

BUY IT ONCE, BUY IT WELL

10 Transform your wardrobe Create your own organised wardrobe with these tips and specialist products. It’s easier than you think.

18 The science of airers A quality drying rack can save you time in the laundry and extend the life of your clothes.

Find out why Howards is the airer specialist.

12 Second drawer syndrome If there’s one area of the home that is easiest to turn from nightmare to dream, it’s the cutlery drawer. We show you how.

20 Weekend project Transform your linen cupboard in just a few hours and your efforts will be rewarded forever more. Plus, find out about the latest laundry gadgets.

14 The psychology of decluttering Professional organiser Sue Blake explains why it is people hold onto their stuff and a step-by-step program will bring success when it comes to organising your home.

22 Bear Cottage for kids in need Together with the generous support of customers, Howards has raised over $285,000 for the Bear Cottage hospice for sick children. You can help us do more for this worth while cause.

bonus leifheit Hangers

I love the colder weather. It makes being at home with the family so enticing. That is, of course, once we’ve taken the time to get things sorted.

One of the big projects for winter is to cosy up the living room. Given that everyone spends so much time inside, it simply makes sense. Plus, there’s a great sense of satisfaction once we’ve planned where to store our books, magazines, music and movie collections. The trick is maintaining the order, which can be a challenge at times.

It’s funny, though, apart from the living room, it’s the home office that tends to indicate the state of order in our home.

Having a clear desk with school notes, mail and work papers stored away brings a sense of calm, even if other parts of the house aren’t as tidy.

I’m excited to reveal the results of the wardrobe makeover competition. Five lucky people each won a makeover valued at $3,000, including elfa® shelving products from Howards Storage World.

Turn to page 8 to see the results of one transformation. You’ll be surprised at the results.

Kate.

P.S - Visit www.hsw.com.au to see the other makeovers and to find more organising tips and products.

Purchase a Leifheit Pegasus 200 Deluxe airer and receive a bonus Pegasus 5x hangers set valued at RRP $22.95.

Offer valid from 1.7.10 to 31.8.10.

See back cover for offer.

Howards Storage World | 3

It’s Winter, get co I

t’s wintertime and the amount of time we spend indoors increases as the cooler weather sets in.

A.

I love it! It’s the time to treat yourself to warm banana bread and tea mid-afternoon on the sofa and, for dinner, a warming and nutritious soup that is so easy to make you have to wonder why we don’t eat soup more often throughout the year.

B.

Knowing you have made the time to plan, sort and organise your living room, makes the time you steal for yourself, so much more wonderful.

C.

Once you have a plan for what you are going to sort, start small – it may be with your DVD collection or magazines – and take it step by step.

Now that you have decluttered, create a space for everything you want in the room. This is even more important if you don’t have a lot of room to work with.

D.

The next step is to put on the kettle and sit back with a warming cup of tea and enjoy your new, organised space. You deserve it!

3 steps to cosy-up your living room.

Stackable CD & DVD Holders from $14.95

4

1. Plan!

2. Sort!

Now is the time to get creative but first, think how the room is used, what you really want to store in it and what can be moved elsewhere.

You might decide to make a feature wall and smarten up your room by painting one wall in a bold colour or dressing up the wall by hanging a collection of photos or prints in similar frames. A Hang and Level Picture Hanger will help you get the levels right. Just $19.95. The most important thing is to work out what you really want in this special space.

Make room for your magazines and books and create an organised collection of your treasures. Go through your CDs and DVDs and work out how you can create a space for everything. Faux Leather storage boxes are affordable and look stylish (in various sizes from $29.95). If you are after storage in a neutral tone, try the Canvass Storage Boxes (in various sizes from $18.95). For CDs and DVDs, try Stackable Faux Leather Stackers in chocolate ($14.95 each and $21.95 each).

osy!

Faux leather Magazine Holder, both stylish and practical. $42.95

A. White Lacquered Floating Shelf from $29.95 B. 3 Tier Small Double Width Resin Shelf $195 C. 2 Tier Small Double Width Resin Shelf $155 D. 1 Tier Small Double Width Resin Shelf $89.95 E. Modular Wine Rack from $44.95 for 12 bottle rack

E.

bright idea!

3. Store!

Create storage with a portable shelving unit.

If you need storage fast and want it to be sturdy and attractive, invest in Resin cubes that come in a range of sizes and styles, including one-tier, two-tier and three-tier box shelving. These can transform a blank wall instantly and create storage space from as little as $69.95.

Another good space saving option is the Arki Media System, a modular set of units that includes colour coded sleeves to allow you to

discard hard cases and store your music and movie disks five times more efficiently. One of the messiest things in a living room can be phones, chargers, iPods and other electronic gadgets. Hide them away in one tidy place with a Charger Station, $49.95 in black. And from just $3.95 you can end the tangle of wires on your iPod with a Smart Cord Wrap that comes in a range of colours.

If you want to go green, try bamboo, which is a rapidly renewing resource that produces 30 per cent more oxygen than trees and regenerates itself without planting. Howards Storage World has a huge selection of bamboo products that look as good as they are for the planet. One product I like, especially, is the Bamboo 4-Tier Caddie $79.95 which is ideal for storing CDs and DVDs. Howards Storage World | 5

Warm inside and B.

C

bright idea!

ooking for the family when it’s cold outside is so satisfying – especially when you make enough for lunch the next day or to freeze for a later date.

5

PP

BPA FREE

B. Cut your weekly cooking time in half by freezing extra meals in Microsafe Oblong BPA 5 FREE Containers from $5.25. Their cleverPPrelease vents makes microwaving safe and easy.

Being organised in the kitchen will help you enjoy it more. Invest in quality freezer storage containers and products for the fridge and you’ll cut your cooking time in half.

C. The Aladdin Stackable Bento Style Food Container can be used as a combined set for larger meals or separately for smaller meals.

Its leak proof, dishwasher safe and includes a divider to keep rice/veggies separate.

Think of all the money you’ll save taking your lunch to work! ($44.95)

Choose containers that are Bisphenol A free (BPA free) and stack well to save space in the fridge.

D. Aladdin Aveo Vacuum Flasks will keep your soups and hot drinks warm thanks to stainless steel insulation. From $39.95 in (470ml) they are large enough for two serves and look sleek, with their colourful designs or simple stainless steel casing.

Try these products: A. Safely store meals in the freezer in Thermo Glass containers. You can take them straight from the freezer to the microwave and they look stylish with their red lids (from $11.95.)

5

PP

This flask has two screw-on lids: one coffee lid and a second sports lid with a wider opening, which makes it5 easy for BPA FREE PP holding ice in summer.

5

C.

A.

Help the children stay warm by preparing soups for them to enjoy at school or sport in their very own thermos.

The Reduce Hybrid 2 in 1 Stainless Steel Flask $24.95 keeps drinks and soups warm for up to five hours and is cool to touch.

PP

BPA FREE

5

PP

BPA FREE

BPA FREE

D. 5

PP

6

BPA FREE

5

PP

BPA FREE

Colours and styles may vary from store to store.

out A cosy winter recipe from Barilla.

Pasta and Chickpea Soup Serves 4 (with leftovers) YOU’LL NEED: • 2 x 400g tinned chickpeas • 120ml extra virgin olive oil • 2 garlic cloves, crushed • 1 small red chilli, finely chopped • 200g tomato puree • 2 sprigs fresh rosemary • 2 litres vegetable stock • 200g Barilla Stellini or Risoni Pasta • Sea salt and black pepper • Chopped chives, to serve • Grated pecorino, to serve • Crusty Italian bread, to serve

METHOD: Rinse and drain the chickpeas. Heat the olive oil in a medium-size pot and add the chilli and garlic. Cook for 2 minutes before adding the tomato puree and rosemary. Cook for a further 5 minutes on a low heat.

Add the chickpeas and stock and bring to the boil.

Lower the heat and cook for about 10 minutes, then stir in the pasta and cook until the pasta is al dente.

Taste and season with sea salt and pepper.

Top with chives and pecorino, and serve with crusty Italian bread.

Howards Storage World | 7

D

eclutter your wardrobe and you’ll have more time for the things that really matter, as we show one of the winners of our Win a Wardobe Makeover competition.

With three sons under seven, including a young baby, Danielle Gaha has very little time for herself and found keeping track of her clothes had become an impossible task.

She and partner James had the room – with a luxurious walk-in wardrobe in their Sydney home – but needed help to get things sorted.

Mornings used to be a nightmare. What to wear? Where to find it? Danielle is the first to admit that if your home is in chaos, it’s really hard to keep on top of everything else in your life. And with baby Tyler it had become even more important to save time.

As stylist Jeff Lack says, your wardrobe is the space you look at every day. It’s important that what’s in it reflects the image you want to convey to the world.

“Often you have very little time and that’s why it’s important that what you keep in it, is what you want and need,” Jeff says.

Fortunately for Danielle, Jeff spent time helping her select the colours that work best with her hair and skin tones as well as the styles that are most flattering. The right hem lines, shapes and designs differ for everyone and Jeff is an expert in helping people look the best, no matter what their shape.

Once this was sorted, Danielle’s wardrobe makeover began with a major decluttering

Did you

know?

8

effort, courtesy of Karen Koedding from the professional organising service A Little Elf.

move, spare doonas were stored in a handy Compactor storage box from $36.95

“Most people have three sizes in their wardrobes – the size they are, the size they want to be and the size they hold onto just in case,”

“Most wardrobes have shelves that are too far apart,” Karen says. “I like shelves to be 30-45 centimetres apart so you can store more things neatly.”

“The first step was to declutter and we ended up discarding about half her clothes and shoes. Fortunately Danielle was a quick decision maker.”

“It can be very freeing and it’s far easier to maintain your wardrobe if you are looking after just half as many things.”

“I believe if you discard the things that are too small, you actually remove the block and find it easier to lose weight. You can always have fun later buying new items.”

The decluttering complete, it was time to address the biggest problem in the wardrobe – a lack of structure.

Using a Swedish-designed elfa® storage system, the experts at Howards Storage World created his/hers hanging areas, each with three shelves above them. Everything on the floor was lifted to above waist-height.

“People fall into two categories – those who like most things folded and those who like to hang things.”

“Shoes should be at eye level. You can waste a lot of time looking for shoes in the bottom of your wardrobe, behind clothes.”

As for handbags, Karen says most women like to look at them, so she made Danielle’s bags a design feature by putting them on a shelf at the centre of the wardrobe.

The makeover complete, the key now for Danielle, is to maintain the order.

“It’s like doing the dishes every day, you need to put your clothes away every day,” Karen says.

BEFORE

“It’s like going shopping in your own wardrobe if you can see what you have,” Karen said. “It can actually save you money.”

Like items were grouped together with stacks created for jumpers, T-shirts, knits and jeans.

Smaller, often-used items, such as gym gear, underwear and socks were stored in elfa® slide-out baskets.

The top shelves were set aside for things not often used such as spare doonas and linen, luggage and memorabilia. And in an ingenious

Your local Howards Storage World store is happy to assist with your elfa® or easy-build wardrobe with an obligation free measure and quote. We can even arrange delivery and installation.

Visit hsw.com.au for an elfa® wardrobe demonstration.

Our NSW ‘Wardrobe Makeover’ competition winner Danielle Gaha with the ‘Dream Team’ makeover professionals Cathy Player, Jeff Lack and Karen Koedding.

AFTER

archive zone: Upper Shelves

Accessories zone

HERS: Clothes are colour coded and grouped by short & long sleeve. Extra hanging space for dresses.

HIS: Extra shelf space is perfect for folded T-shirts, knits and jeans.

Howards Storage World | 9

Transform your own ward Accessorise it Shoes and handbags are some of the most valuable items in your wardrobe so look after them by creating space in your ‘robe so you can keep them free from scuffs and dust. If you have room, aim for an accessory zone like this one we created for Danielle on an eye-height shelf.

Place shoes in pairs with the toes pointed in the same direction so your wardrobe looks like a classy department store. And if you want to protect them, invest in slide-out Clear Store Storage Boxes that are sturdy and stack. $22.95 for ladies shoes. If you want to stack and save, look for Howards’ new 10 pack of plastic Ladies Stackable Shoe Boxes $49.95.

Set of 10 Ladies Stackable Shoe Boxes $49.95

NEW

10 PAC !

K $49.95

Congratulations

Frame it You won’t find a storage system stronger than elfa®. Made from epoxy bonded steel, it comes with a 10-year guarantee.

What’s smartest about elfa® is the flexibility. Once you have fixed the top track to the wall, you can reconfigure your wardrobe, adding slide-out drawers, shelves and hanging space, as your needs change. elfa® allows you to install a wardrobe that is easy to change without huge cost or effort.

Stack it Arrange T-shirts, jumpers, shorts and knits in separate piles and arrange them side-by-side. If you can colour code your groups, your wardrobe looks smarter and it makes it easier to find things.

10

to all our wardrobe makeover winners!

Danielle Gaha – NSW/ACT Danni Marchi – VIC /TAS Louisa Ward - QLD Kristy Bone – SA /NT Scott Ingham – WA

Match it There’s no easier way to transform the look of your wardrobe than by throwing out all those mis-matched hangers and replacing them with a neat, ordered selection from the Howards range. Remember if you are short on space there are hangers that allow you to hang four pairs of trousers or four skirts on one hanger.

Skirt & Trouser Hanger 8 Clip $8.95

drobe, it’s easy!

Box it Attractive boxes that match your decor are ideal for storing the little things such as scarves, keepsakes, perfumes and soaps. They also work for the big things such as spare linen, spare shoes and memorabilia. Remember to measure (twice!) before buying anything. These stylish Hampton Baskets are made of recycled paper rope from $14.95 each.

Hang it If you’re short on hanging space, try this economical option – Canvas Hanging Organisers for shoes, T-shirts and knits, from $21.95. You can even add a canvas sweater drawer for smaller items for $13.95. The organisers hang from the wardrobe railing and come in four colours to match any decor.

Slide it elfa’s slide-out mesh baskets make storage so easy to access. The stylish baskets fit into existing components.

The sliding baskets facilitate air circulation and allow you to store small items such as underwear, socks and gym gear. The contemporary tight mesh prevents small items from falling out and getting caught on other shelves.

Boots and all If you’ve invested in quality leather boots for winter, protect them with these clever Booty Shapers. Just $9.95 a pair, they keep your boots crease-free. Remember if you want to prevent mould affecting your leather shoes, Damp Rid disposable dehumidifiers will do the job for just $6.95.

Shelve it Once you’ve reorganised your wardrobe to make the most of the space you have, you’re sure to find room up high for storing items you rarely use. We call this archive storage and Howards has a specialist range of containers such as this Compactor that is large enough to hold two doonas. Smart storage from $36.95.

Howards Storage World | 11

The perfect drawer!

1. Specialty dividers

I

f there’s one area of the home that’s easy to turn from nightmare to dream, it’s the second drawer. And the best news is that the dream is one you’ll enjoy over and over as the kitchen utensil drawer is one of the mostused parts of the home. It deserves to be sorted!

plan what you really want to keep in this often used place. If you give each item a designated space you’ll soon see it’s easy to find things. Remember when you start sorting to consider if you really do need that many items or whether it would be more useful to discard a few and create a ‘spill over’ drawer for the rarely used items.

We ask a lot of this drawer – it needs to hold items big and small, of various shapes and sizes and items that, when we need them, we need them in a hurry. Can openers to speed up the preparation of an after-work curry, wooden spoons when baking birthday cakes, corn-on-the-cob holders to prevent sticky fingers and cookie cutters to make baking fun. The list is endless.

Ideal for specialty drawers such as spices and the junk drawer.

I actually counted the items in my sister’s second drawer and had to stop once I exceeded 110. Wow, more than 100 items in one place, with no plan! No wonder she finds cooking stressful.

Fortunately, organising your kitchen second drawer is easy – and there are permanent solutions.

When it comes to storing kitchen utensils, Howards Storage World can help! Bring your second drawer and its contents into the store and let the experts help you.

There are four types of drawer organisers that will transform your life in the kitchen.

1. Specialty dividers

2. Expandable dividers The fastest fix as they slide to fit the width or depth of your drawer.

3. Modular dividers These allow you to create a custom setting for the items you need on hand in this drawer. Design your own perfect layout and keep most used items to the front.

4. Standard tray inserts Instantly create sections for separate items and can be cut to size.

As with all storage projects, the first step is to

2. Expandable dividers

12

3. Modular dividers

4. Standard tray inserts

CHEF’S TOOLBOX - Top 5 Gadgets!

Potato Masher

Garlic Zoom

Garlic Zoom - No more garlic fingers with this gadget that chops garlic in seconds. $19.95

Potato Masher - Fluffy mashed potatoes are easy with this stainless steel masher that aerates and mashes. $29.95

Vegie Chop

Jarkey Jar Opener

Fits any lid

Jarkey Jar Opener - For hard-to-open lids, this plastic lever simply pops the seal on jars, leaving lids easy to remove. $8.25

Pull the cord to chop

Vegie Chop - Save time in the kitchen by reducing your food preparation time. Simply cut vegetables into mid-size pieces, place in the container, pull the lever and your vegetables are ready for stir-fries, soups, and barbeques. $54.95

Poach Pods

Poach Pods - Ideal for the pan or the microwave, these silicon pods make poaching eggs perfectly easy. Simply spray with oil, break an egg into them and cook. Set of two for $19.95 Howards Storage World | 13

The psycholog y of de investment. Yet every square metre of homes costs us in rent or mortgage and surveys indicate that one in eight Australians have moved house to accommodate more stuff.

Sue Blake, In an Organised Fashion.

Anne groaned. She was holding a shoe box of postcards. “From my mother,” she said, a repeating refrain.

We were sitting in the middle of her rumpus room, which had not been used for the past two years, surrounded by … stuff; a LOT of it from her mother.

I tried to look stern but she spotted the corners of my mouth fighting a smile and we got the giggles. Clearly her mother found it easier to let go of clutter by giving it to someone she loved.

How do our possessions morph into clutter?

The dictionary says clutter is a disorderly heap or assemblage, but my definition is determined by my clients. What is clutter to one person is a comfortable collection to another. Our stuff becomes clutter when it stops us leading the life we want to lead, when it interferes with the quality of living.

This is different for everyone.

But why do we hold on? The reasons people give are many and diverse but in my experience there are three common ones.

The first is “I might need it one day”. Like squirrels, we hoard for hard times. We are afraid of getting rid of something in case we regret it later. While it’s wise to plan for the future, we cannot be prepared for all events and eventualities. It’s worth stepping back and asking, what impact is this clutter having on us NOW? The second catch cry is “I paid good money for it, it’s worth a lot”. Expensive clutter is particularly tenacious, grasping with vice-like tentacles to our emotions and space. Having spent our hard-earned cash, we hold on in the hope we will use it and justify the expense. We want a return on our 14

The third reason is that belongings tell our story. They tell others who we want to be (as advertisers well know) and represent our history. Our stuff is the residue of who we are; a footprint in the sand of our past.

This is a particular issue for those who are kinaesthetic, for whom the physical touch of an object evokes memories of events and relationships.

The problem with stuff is that it can be VERY demanding. Stuff needs space, it needs to be cared for, insured, and, like a naughty child, demands our attention. It distracts us from the important things in life, such as relationships and a sense of peace.

Sure you paid good money for it, but is it still worth keeping?

For most of us, the biggest obstacle when it comes to decluttering is our heads. The secret to success is to change our mindset. Instead of thinking “I might need it”, consider what it is costing you to hold on.

ecluttering Steve & Jenny Wilson Franchisees, Mt Gravatt QLD. Start looking at clutter not as a problem but an opportunity. The clutter that you are clinging to because you might use it in the future could help some one in need NOW. Donate it to a charity, give to someone who will treasure it. And as for the past, ask yourself, if these items are so important, how am I treating them? Select the most special, honour them and let the rest go. Perhaps items could be sold giving you access to money that can be put to better use.

So take a big breath and remember, the thought of letting go is often scarier than doing it. If you need to, start small – the first bit is always the hardest and it may take a little practice. Make the goal a realistic one, one small task at a time.

As for Anne, she let go of a great deal, including the postcards. I did some research and found a local postcard collector’s society where they were received with gratitude and are valued. Anne’s rumpus room is now a terrific space for her teens to hang out with their friends. When she phones me, I could hear music punctuated with bursts of laughter.

My favourite products...

Steve and Jenny Wilson have spent almost a decade running this busy store in Brisbane.

When their three children were under 15 they set up the store, keen to make a living helping people use Howards Storage World products to organise their lives.

Their team has won many awards for selling the most Pocket Pads to help the charity that runs the Sydney children’s hospice Bear Cottage. They have also been named Howards Storage World Franchisee of the Year three times in 2002, 2005 and 2006.

Steve nominated four of his favourite buys.

“One of our favourite products is a twotier laundry trolley (Laundry Buggy with 2 Baskets $145) and not just for use in the laundry,” he said. “We’ve sold it to people who take it to the outdoor vegetable markets and load their fruit and veg in it.”

“We’ve also sold it to coaches who use it to hold tennis balls during coaching sessions and even to hospitals which use it to take linen from ward to ward.”

Once you have decluttered you will have room for all sorts of things.

The lesson is to have the confidence and courage to recognise that your stuff is not who you are. Acknowledge if it has become a life raft for the future or a chain to the past.

Let go and enjoy today.

For more information on Sue Blake’s services, visit www.organisedfashion.com.au

Other products that are popular are the jewellery and makeup organisers. The clear Allure range is a favourite (Allure Jewellery Cabinet $169 and Glam Lipstick Cosmetic Organiser $29.95).”

“There’s a range of stackable trays that have lids that you can stack and keep your jewellery neat and tidy on the dresser.

(9 compartment jewellery tray $12.95, lid $8.95).”

Howards Storage World | 15

Deskercise: a tale o T

here are two distinct types of working styles – vertical organisers and horizontal organisers who like their work and organisation tools to be on display. If you want a home office that works for you, the first step is to “deskercise” and recognise which type of style suits you.

STEP ONE: PLAN Some people can’t think straight until their desk is totally clear of paper, books and work tools. If this is you, it’s likely you are a vertical organiser. This means you’ll need a desk set-up and filing system of shelves and boxes where you can hide away your work things. The important thing is that the system is accessible so you don’t waste time looking for things you have filed.

People who like to have their work tools on display have different needs. Their set-up needs be orderly as they work better when they have everything at their fingertips.

If you are organising a family office space, consider who uses it and when. One option is to invest in a drawer or box for each member of the family. The trick is to make sure everyone clears their items into this space once they have finished their work.

STEP TWO: SORT Both ‘deskercise’ personalities need a few fundamentals. Look at your office and you’ll quickly see if you are in control of your space. If you feel like the desk is controlling you, it’s time to take action to transform your workspace. You’ll be surprised how quickly you can make a change. Conquering your mountain of paperwork is all about small steps and taking action.

Firstly take everything off your desk except for the most essential tools of your trade.

Ask yourself what items you use often. The most important thing is to remember to group together similar items such as journals, magazines and books.

STEP THREE: STORE For things you access only rarely – such as tax papers and paid bills, invest in archive storage. A useful exercise is to group together items you rarely use in a box. Put the box in another room, such as the garage. As you continue working, when you need a missing item, retrieve it from the box. Howards range of Easi Store plastic boxes come in a variety of sizes and are perfect for this exercise.

Lost control?

If you don’t have a lot of room at home for traditional office furniture, send your workspace up the wall and create a place for everything with an elfa® workstation. With only one fixed top track mounted to the wall, a mix of desk, drawers, shelves and baskets, can easily hang from floor to ceiling if you like. Workspace configurations can change easily to suit your projects by readjusting or adding to the wall brackets.

The new elfa® Freestanding range allows you to create an ‘office island’ and is an instant office, anywhere, with overhead adjustable shelving. With access from two sides, your home office space can be more flexible than ever and no walls are required.

Colour coding can really help both types of office styles and is useful if you are creating a storage space for items used by different members of the family.

Remember to create a space for stationery so that all your pens, pencils, sticky notes, staplers and scissors are in one place.

Magazine holders can be useful – and not just for storing journals. If you like bright colours, consider designating a magazine holder in a different colour for various forms of correspondence.

bright idea!

Invest in a twin bin: one side for items to be recycled and one for shredding.

A.

16

of two desks B.

“

If you feel like your desk is controlling you, it’s time to take action to transform your workspace. You’ll be surprised how quickly you can make change.

”

Create the perfect vertical desk space with elfa®.

C.

A. Twin Pedal Bin 2 x 30L $189 B. Bigso Cloth Laminate Range from $21.95 C. Bigso Paper Laminate Range from $13.95 D. Faux Leather Desk Set $44.95

E. Charger Station $49.95 F. Monitor Stand Organiser $59.95 G. Desktop File Organiser $44.95 H. Umbra Magnetic Bullet Board from $59.95

H.

D. E.

F. G.

If you work better with your things on display, Howards can help you co-ordinate your look.

Howards Storage World | 17

I

f there’s one thing more magical than the sight of an empty laundry, it’s the feel of crisp linen that’s been washed and dried to perfection.

A quality drying rack will help you achieve this – and save you time in the laundry. Using a drying rack is eco-friendly as it cuts down on electric dryer use, plus drip dry helps extend the life of fine washables.

Howards Storage World is the airer specialist and once the staff explain the design features of the range I’m sure you’ll agree an airer is something that’s worth investing in.

See BONUS OFFER on back cover!

The science

Pegasus 200 Deluxe Airer $199 If you need convincing to spend extra on a quality product to air your clothes, keep in mind that a drying rack is one product that can last decades.

Leifheit airers are the superior brand because of the wide range and quality of each product. As with any organisation solution, you need to consider your needs to make sure you invest in the best product for you.

Here are some smart design features to look for:

of a Extra wide rungs don’t leave marks

1. Rubber Feet To stop the drying rack marking your floors and stop the legs from slipping

2. Special Hangers Leifheit make a specialty drying hanger designed to clip onto Leifheit airers. Only $22.95 for a set of 5.

Smart Airer 60cm $79.95

18

3. Holders For small articles of clothing such as underwear and socks that clip onto the side of the airer - the Leifheit Pegasus 200 includes 2 of these.

Sensitive S5 Airer $179

Drying mesh for jumpers

No matter if your laundry is inside or out, big or small, you can easily transform your laundry space into an efficient workspace.

For homes with little space, consider the Brabantia Wall Fix Clothes Line $299 that fits onto an outdoor wall. To access the 25 metres of drying space, you simply pull the rack out. And when you need the space back, the clothes line folds neatly back onto the wall. An included soft cover protects the line and hides it away.

Wall Fix Clothes Line $299

airers

20 Rail Stainless Steel Airer with Mesh and Peg Bag $69.95 If you want to move your washing in and out of the sun, consider the 42 Rail 3 Tier Mobile Airer $109 which comes with wheels. Tiers also collapse if you need more room for longer items.

The Leifheit Pegasus “In Shower” Drying Tower $179 is designed to stand in a shower cubicle. It also has a shelf that folds in case you need more room to dry longer items such as towels.

4. Height

Some airers are designed to be below the height of a standard balcony to comply with body corporate rules. After all, there are some things you really don’t want to share with your neighbours!

5. Width Prevent drying marks on delicate items by choosing the Leifheit Sensitive S5 Airer $179 which has extra wide rungs.

6. A Mesh Drying Rack Drying knitware is best acheived on a flat surface to ensure that your knitware retains its shape.

42 Rail 3 Tier Mobile Airer $109

Pegasus Tower $179

Howards Storage World | 19

Weekend projects 1. Linen cupboard The linen cupboard is often the messiest in the house.

It’s such a shame because quality linen can be such an indulgence – and who doesn’t enjoy snuggling under crisp sheets. It’s so easy to get it sorted. We show you how.

into your shelves and are 390mm deep.

They can hold a 350mm wide or 390mm wide basket and the roller system actually gives you extra space whilst allowing you to access the back of your cupboard. (These sliding drawers are also ideal in the pantry, laundry and wardrobes.) The roller system starts from $35 and you can select from a range of baskets.

TOP TIP: Place matching sheets inside their pillowcase to keep items together and organised.

To keep linen smelling fresh, include some Aura Room Scenters and be reassured by the scent of either lavender or vanilla ($14.95).

If the fresh scent of cedar is more your thing, buy Cedar Fresh blocks.

Consider SPACE BAG® Vacuum Totes and Storage Bags to keep guests’ linen extra fresh and protected from dust, damage and insects. Plus by sucking out the air within the bag, you triple your storage space.

From $11.95.

Spend a couple of hours planning and reorganising your linen cupboard and your efforts will be rewarded forever more. And the transformation will make you wish you took action long ago.

As with all decluttering projects, the first step is to plan. Work out exactly what you want to store in the cupboard, how much room you have, and whether your biggest problem is trying to cram too many sheets and towels into too little a space. Once you’ve planned it, sort out what should be discarded (remember that sections of cotton sheets make great cleaning rags in the laundry) and which items deserve prime space.

Try these power products: Invest in sliding drawers such as the elfa® Easy Glider System. The roller system screws 20

Protect extra blankets, doonas and pillows by storing them in stackable Blanket Bags from $12.95.

Winter is the time for mould. Damp Rid absorbs excess moisture and beats musty odours. From $6.95.

Keep blankets dust free with this canvas Blanket Bag from $16.95 Stuck for storage space?

Easi Store Underbed boxes $34.95 each

bright idea!

Don’t have a linen cupboard?

Create one in each room with these Easi Store Underbed boxes $34.95 each, that are perfect for protecting linen and blankets from dust.

2. Smart laundry

For a stylish way to store laundry products, try these Designer Laundry Tins from $24.95

If you want to cut the time and money you spend in the laundry and get better results, try these gadgets.

Sterilite Caddies and Baskets

Designer Laundry Tins from $24.95

These white baskets in various sizes and styles are made in the USA of sturdy plastic, which means they will last years. You’ll also love the Ultra Laundry Baskets with soft handles, from $29.95. For large families, the portable Hamper With Wheels ($84.95) might just get your teen interested in clearing the dirty clothes from their room.

If you want to save yourself trips to the shops, start buying laundry powder in bulk and storing it in these smart tins. They come in charcoal, latte and white and include a scoop.

Sort it. The 3 Divider Laundry Cart Comes in two sizes and in chrome and canvas (from $89.95). Allows everyone in the family to pre-sort their clothes. Now that’s smart laundry!

Over the door hanging racks Make use of unused door space with an over-the-door hanging rack to hold your towels, coats, robes, bags and more.

Ecozone Ecoballs $34.95

Create extra hanging space

Ideal for anyone with skin that’s sensitive to detergents, these reusable balls contain no soap and are an alternative to washing with detergents.

Simply place two balls on top of your washing and their scientifically formulated filling penetrates into fibres, lifting away dirt without fading colours or damaging delicate fabrics.

You can reuse them for up to 150 washes.

Ironing Hanger $8.95

These eco-friendly beauties replace your regular laundry detergent

Keep your ironing in good shape with simple door storage for ironed shirts, skirts and dresses. Notches help to keep hangers separated.

Howards Storage World | 21

Lending a hand to Bear Cottage Simply by purchasing products to ‘get organised’, Howards Storage World customers help support Bear Cottage, a Sydney hospice for seriously ill children and their families.

All profits from each Pocket Pad sold at Howards are donated to Bear Cottage. The pad is great for the car, your handbag and your sports bag as it includes a note pad, pen, ruler, sticky tabs and a magnifying glass, all in one smart container for $4.95.

Since 2004 Howards Storage World has donated $285,000 through sales of products such as the Pocket Pad. The money has

been used to fund respite for families including care for the sick child, as well as specialist staff including a paediatric palliative care nurse and a nursing assistant.

It costs $2.3 million a year to keep the doors of Bear Cottage open.

HOW YOU CAN HELP Simply buy a Pocket Pad for $4.95 next time you $4.95 visit a Howards Storage World store and know you have helped seriously sick children and their families in a small but important way.

eShop made easy eShop uses environmentally friendly recyclable packaging and pellets

You can shop online any day of the week and at any hour of the day through Howards Storage World eShop.

Your order will be dispatched quickly and delivered anywhere within Australia.

To place an order online, visit hsw.com.au If you have any questions, phone 02 9972 7073.

“

It’s so nice to have my order shipped direct to my door, wrapped so carefully.

”

Find us on Facebook and Twitter Did you know the number of people accessing social networking sites has increased dramatically over the past year?

Howards Storage World has joined the social media movement. Swap ideas, seek help or share your organisational stories. It’s easy.

Simply log onto www.facebook.com and search for ‘Howards’. Or, click the Facebook logo on www.hsw.com.au which links you directly to our page.

For updates stay in touch via www.twitter.com/howardsstorage 22

Receive a $20* Voucher when you spend $100.

Participating Howards Storage World Stores

For the full store list, visit: hsw.com.au NEW SOUTH WALES Albury 587 Dean St (02) 6021 3644 Artarmon NOW OPEN! Home HQ North Shore (02) 9437 1955 Belrose Homemakers SupaCenta (02) 9986 2480 Bondi Junction Westfield Bondi Junction (02) 9387 5733 Brookvale Warringah Mall (02) 9907 2200 Burwood Westfield Burwood (02) 9744 8077 Campbelltown Macarthur Square (02) 4627 5222 Castle Hill Castle Hill Supa Centa – Sth Bldg (02) 9634 4200 Coffs Harbour Park Beach Plaza (02) 6652 4848 Erina Erina Fair (02) 4367 0433 Hornsby Westfield Hornsby (02) 9987 2700 Lismore Lismore Square (02) 6621 6655 North Ryde Macquarie Centre (02) 9888 6655 Miranda Westfield Miranda (02) 9542 8566 Moore Park Homemaker SupaCenta (02) 9697 2777 Northbridge Northbridge Shopping Plaza (02) 9958 4699 Port Macquarie Port Home Zone (02) 6584 3500 Rhodes Rhodes Shopping Centre (02) 9736 3111 Rouse Hill Rouse Hill Town Centre (02) 8883 2577 Rutherford Hunter Supa Centre (02) 4932 4655 Shellharbour Stockland (02) 4297 0811 Tuggerah Westfield Tuggerah (02) 4353 9066 Wagga Wagga Marketplace (02) 6971 8800 QUEENSLAND Aspley Homemaker City Cnr Gympie Rd & Zillmere Rd (07) 3862 7633

Cairns 327 Mulgrave Rd (07) 4054 4966 Fortitude Valley 650 Wickham St Homemaker City North (07) 3216 0222 Helensvale Homeworld Helensvale (07) 5502 6677 Jindalee Homemaker City (07) 3279 2611 Loganholme Logan Hyperdome Shopping Centre (07) 3209 8846 Maroochydore NOW OPEN! Shop 13, 50 Plaza Pde (07) 5479 3833 Noosa Noosa Civic (07) 5447 1322 Robina Robina Town Centre (07) 5575 7133 Rockhampton Redhill Homemaker Centre Cnr Richardson Rd and Yaamba Rd (07) 4928 6511 Springwood The Logan MegaCentre (07) 3209 2777 Townsville Domain Central (07) 4779 9411 Upper Mt Gravatt Westfield Garden City (07) 3422 2003 SOUTH AUSTRALIA Gepps Cross Homemaker Centre (08) 8162 9160 Mile End Homemaker Centre (08) 8152 0400 Mt Barker Adelaide Hills Homemaker Centre (08) 8391 4755 TASMANIA Hobart 140 Liverpool St (03) 6234 8422 VICTORIA Chadstone Chadstone Shopping Centre (03) 9568 6200 Cheltenham Westfield Southland (03) 9583 9155 Essendon NOW OPEN! Homemaker Hub (03) 9374 2903 Fountain Gate Westfield Fountain Gate (03) 8786 5222 Maribyrnong Highpoint Shopping Centre (03) 9318 1855

Like to know a little more about Howards Storage World?

Become a Howards Facebook fan or follow us on Twitter.

Visit our website to join: hsw.com.au

Melbourne Melbourne Central (03) 9654 7900 Mornington NOW OPEN! Peninsula Lifestyle Centre (03) 5973 5399 Nunawading 372 Whitehorse Rd, Home HQ (03) 9894 8411 r gif t vouche Richmond Victoria Gardens Shopping Centre (03) 9428 4060 Shepparton Opening soon Riverside Plaza Shopping Centre *$20 voucher to be spent on your next visit at the store of issue.

Only one x $20 voucher issued for purchases of $100 or more.

South Wharf Multiple $20 vouchers will not be issued.

Homemaker Hub (03) 9682 0911

$20 inplace

WESTERN AUSTRALIA Bunbury 175-181 Blair St (08) 9792 4880 Cannington Unit 1, 38 William St (08) 9356 3511 Karrinyup Karrinyup Shopping Centre (08) 9244 4333 Mandurah Shop 2, 65 Reserve Dr (08) 9583 4900 Myaree PrimeWest Melville, 276 Leach Hwy (08) 9317 8700 Rockingham 2 Commodore Drv (08) 9528 5044 Southern River Cnr Ranford Rd & Boardwalk Blvd (08) 9394 0900 Subiaco 427 Hay St (08) 9381 4599 Success Cockburn Gateway Shopping City (08) 9499 1018 GROUP OFFICE No. 4 Forest Central Business Park 49 Frenchs Forest Rd Frenchs Forest NSW 2086 Tel: (02) 9452 8888 Fax: (02) 9452 8899 mail@hsw.com.au INTERNATIONAL STORES Visit howardsstorageworld.com for international store locations.

Now Open In: New Zealand, Dubai, Saudi Arabia, Singapore, Spain, Belgium, Ireland, Philippines, U.K. and India.

Opening Soon In: Norway.

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Redemptions accepted to 30.9.10 for in-store purchases only. $20 voucher can only be used in one transaction, no change provided, can not be exchanged for cash or Gift Card.

For full conditions see: hsw.com.au

Return this coupon to your local store.

Can’t Decide?

Give a Gift Card Gift Cards are available for any amount over $20. Redemption is only available via Australian stores.

It’s fine to change your mind

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We’ll gladly exchange or refund on presentation of a docket where goods are in original packaging (saleable condition). An exchange is offered where a docket is not presented.

8m

Shop Online Shop 24 hours a day, 7 days a week in the comfort of your home.

Need some help to get organised?

Make us your organisation station: 8m visit hsw.com.au

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Free Measure and Quote

Your local store is happy to assist with your elfa®, easy-build wardrobe and wine rack planning with an obligation free measure and quote. We can even arrange delivery and installation.

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All care is taken to ensure that product information and pricing in this magazine is accurate at the time of print (June 2010). However some modifications to product specifications may occur. It may be necessary to adjust prices up or down and we reserve the right to do so. All prices are recommended retail prices only. Due to the popularity of the lines shown, some products may become out of stock or in some instances be discontinued. Listed prices include GST and do not include accessories where shown. Some products may require self assembly. Some items may not be on display in all stores, but may be ordered. Valid for Australian stores only. Howards Storage World® Registered trademarks of Howards Storage World Pty. Ltd. ©

hsw.com.au Howards Storage World | 23

Everything points to a better airer.

20 metres of drying space

Removable soft drying cloth for sensitive articles

Powder coated, rust resistant materials

Peg bag included

Small item hangers on side

Comes with 5 wind proof hangers PLUS an extra bonus set!

Stable robust design Extra

BONUS Value $22.95

Bonus extra Leifheit 5x hanger set.

Extra 5x hanger set when you purchase the Pegasus 200 Deluxe airer.

Promotion commences 1st July and ends 31st August 2010. While Stocks last. Only available at Howards Storage World.