Despite their many variations, all containers have just three key attributes: form, function, and style.
- Form (the "what") refers to the size, shape and physical attributes of a container, including features such as lids and sections. Using our styles to dictate the form of each container we choose increases our likelihood of actually using the container long-term.
- Function is exactly what it sounds like - the purpose the container will serve. Is it meant as a catch-all? A place to organize various documents or items? Is it decorative, useful or both?
- A container’s style comes from its aesthetics - color, texture, pattern, attractiveness. Although these things might not seem important when it comes to containing our stuff, I've found that we're more likely to use a container or storage system that looks nice. In addition, a container's style can be part of a room's overall style, contributing to the aesthetic of the space and keeping us more invested in keeping the space tidy.
If we want to organize in a sustainable way, all of these attributes matter. How much each one matters depends on what needs to go into the container or space, as well as the user's personal and organizational styles.
This is where think time comes in. Giving consideration to how the containers will not only fit into the room but contribute to the overall flow and beauty of the space takes time, thought, and even trial and error. Our end goal is to choose containers that are both appealing and functional so that they’re easy and fun to use and fit well into the space. When we're successful in doing this, we create a space that's not only organized and efficient, but reflects who we are as well, increasing our motivation to use the systems we've set up and spend time in our wonderful, personally organized space.
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