However limited your storage space, it is vital that you have a convenient storage system.  First, decide what kind of storage works best in each area of your home.  What should be out of sight and what can be left on display.   What can be built-in and what should be movable.  Freestanding storage has to be reasonably attractive as well as useful.

Do you have a room that has a bay or dormer window?  Extra storage can be provided by adding  a window seat with lift-up lid or drawers.  Another option is to add built-in seating along one wall or across a corner of a room.  One of the most obvious sites for storage is underneath beds.  Store suitcases, ornaments, wrapping paper, shoes, winter clothes and hats in plastic boxes with lids or zippers.  I personally have 10 pairs of shoes that I cannot bear to get rid of in a plastic zippered box under my bed.  I also store my deck cushions under the bed in the winter.  If your bed is too low, buy extenders that can lift your bed frame 12-14 inches from the floor.  If you are buying a new bed, consider a platform bed with build-in drawers.

If your bedroom doesn't have enough closet space (whose does?) build a partition behind your bed to double as a headboard and create a closet area for overflow clothing, a dressing table or a place to hide a messy desk and file cabinet.  A partition or screen can also hide exercise and sports equipment.  Good place for that yoga ball that doesn't fit anywhere!  You can also install hooks on the back of the screen to hang scarves, necklaces, belts, hats and handbags.

Wicker baskets.  What would we do without baskets!  You can spray paint them to coordinate with the decor of your room and use them as bedside tables or coffee tables.  Install a deep high shelf along the length of a room and line with wicker baskets.  They can double as laundry hampers, toy bins, magazine holders and craft hide-a-ways.

In a combination Living/Dining area, a free-standing shelf or back-to-back storage units can function as a room divider.  But remember, free-standing storage should look attractive as well as be useful.  Line a hallway with two 7 or 8 foot bookcases with a lower 3 or 4 foot one in between.  Add art or a mirror above the low bookcase for a more pleasing look.  Anchor the units to wall or floor with L-brackets if you have small tots or live in earthquake country.
Skirted tables are extremely practical hiding places for files, toys and weights.  Get an unpainted one and throw a shawl, fabric or thin dhurrie rug over it.  Cover with a glass top if you have to protect the fabric from drink or food spillage.

Use the spaces above your doors by fitting a simple wooden shelf with brackets to display books, plants or photo albums.
What other creative ideas for storage can you think of?