by C. Lee Cawley

C. Lee Cawley

The aphorism "nature abhors a vacuum" rings especially true when it comes to maintaining clutter-free spaces. If you clear a space completely without filling it intentionally, that open area practically invites new piles of random items.  So the real challenge lies not just in clearing the clutter, but in preventing it from returning.

This is why I encourage my members of The Clarity Connection to purposefully fill the cleared space—not with clutter, but with simple, intentional decor that brings beauty and calm into the room.

 CLEAR: Start by removing any unnecessary items from the area.  Take them where they belong and if they don’t have a dedicated “home” create one.

PURPOSEFUL PLACEMENT: Once the space is clear, intentionally place items in the now-empty space that serve a purpose and enhance the room's aesthetic. For example:

•  Dining Table: Instead of housing a random pile of papers, delivered boxes, or projects, purposefully set the table with a tablecloth, napkins, a seasonal centerpiece, and even your best china and crystal.  If this room is the first you see when entering your home what a difference this welcome will make!  With this intentional setup, it becomes clear that the table's purpose is to bring people together, not to serve as a drop zone.
• Kitchen Island: The same strategy works beautifully for kitchen islands, another notorious clutter magnet. When you’ve cleared your island, add a large lidded basket alongside a fruit bowl, fresh flowers, or a beautiful plant. Purposeful placement can make all the difference. The basket can be a dedicated space to contain any small items that might naturally end up on the island. Instead of random things sprawled all over, the basket can hold keys, mail, or sunglasses, keeping the area neat and easy to clear in a moment.
• Coffee Table: Try adding a beautiful tray as the centerpiece; this not only anchors the look but also gives smaller items like remotes a designated home. Place a small stack of curated books or magazines that you genuinely enjoy.  Consider adding a succulent plant, a candle, and a small decorative bowl for things like matches, keys, or coasters.
• Side Tables: These often become catch-alls for unopened mail, keys, and other clutter, but transforming them into a display for framed family photos can make them purposeful and personal. Make the frame styles all the same color for cohesiveness and fill the void with smiles and memories.  This setup shifts the table from a flop to a focus on fun and family.

MAINTAIN: If clutter starts to accumulate in these spots decide if it’s because those items don’t have a home or if the space is too empty. Perhaps more carefully curated items will prevent the pile-up. By putting thought into what fills these cleared areas, you’ll help ensure they STAY inviting and organized.

So, where do your piles tend to collect? And what beautiful, functional pieces could you replace them with? By intentionally filling your spaces with purpose, you can transform your home into a haven of peace and organization.

For more information, contact C. Lee Cawley.