Help me tame the clutter?

[EricaW]

I have 2 spots in the kitchen that seem to collect clutter and I just want the clutter gone. The first spot is the counter leading down to the basement. Here is a picture. It's not too bad in this picture but usually what accumulates here is stuff to file, bills, etc. basically office paper work since our office is downstaris. The doorway leads to the stairwell.

http://im1.shutterfly.com/procserv/47b7df24b3127cce80add3bb298600000015108IbM2jFs0a0

The other spot is where I tend to stash stuff that doesn't really have a home. My purse, sunglasses, misc mail, coupons, etc. Here are two different views.

http://im1.shutterfly.com/procserv/47b7df24b3127cce80add3b8a8b500000016108IbM2jFs0a0

http://im1.shutterfly.com/procserv/47b7df24b3127cce80add3b9298400000015108IbM2jFs0a0

Any suggestions? Also those 3 little shelves need work. Basically it is just crap sitting there (notice the Frankenstien decoration :lol: I took these pictures the other day).

[Melissa]

I have hooks to hang my purse, keys, etc... You could use that in your nook there. What about a file for the mail, you can hang that or have one on the counter. Get a place for incoming bills, outgoing, and then throw the junk in the trash. I'll be back with a picture of what I'm thinking of.

[Melissa]

Maybe something like this:
http://www.ikea.com/PIAimages/52870_PE154607_S4.jpg

ETA: that's from Ikea.

[Melissa]

Or an organizer like this:
Click here for Office Max (http://www.officemax.com/max/solutions/product/prodBlock.jsp?BV_UseBVCookie=yes&expansionOID=-536882578&prodBlockOID=56460)

[Karri]

Target has some really sleek organizational stuff. I want to say its their Real Simple line. We don't have that much space, but I bought 2 of the pieces and they've really helped. Prior to that, we had issues w/ mail and notepads and pens and whatnot being all over the place.

For the 3 shelves, try not to use them to store anything and it will make it look much cleaner. I would suggest maybe using come clear vases and filling them w/ stuff like fake lemons, apples, or whatever. You can find all that stuff at craft stores or Target has them right now, as well.

[EricaW]

Thanks Melissa and Karri! I think I'm going to clear everything and find it a home and see how long it can stay that way. Also, one of those organizers like Melissa posted would be great to hang in the starwell. Although, I think it would have to be smaller. I see a trip to Office Max and Target in my future.