FEBRUARY 2025

Hello, organizing clients and friends!

I think of decluttering as a process to reveal clients' most treasured belongings. By letting go of what is extraneous, we create space for what is important.

My favorite moment in a session is when a client says, "Oh! I've been looking for this!" as they find something that's been lost, sometimes for years. Recent examples: jewelry, photos, keys, gift cards, birth certificates, a parking pass.

I pay close attention to which items are personally meaningful to clients so that we can display them. After decluttering, there's open space in which to feature their favorite items. Recent examples: beloved books, anime figures, a father's cowboy boots, Lego art.

When I return to clients' homes, I ask, "Do you miss anything that you let go of last session?" and 99% of the time, clients say the same thing: "I don't even remember what I let go of."

In the photos below, each home has a different aesthetic, but the organizing process is the same: decluttering, categorizing, and making good use of existing storage (closets, drawers, etc.) for infrequently-used items. Then there's plenty of room for personalization or just open space.

Basement storage 'before & after'

This client wanted to reclaim her basement storage area. We sorted through every item, decluttered, then stored items by category in labeled clear plastic totes. We moved one set of shelves into an underutilized closet to store all the pet supplies together and put larger items into a furnace room.

As a result, the client can easily locate what she's looking for. The focal points of the room are now its openness and the lovely wood floor.

Home office 'before & after'

These clients wanted a more functional, less cluttered home office. We sorted through every item, decluttered, then stored categories of supplies, electronics, and keepsakes in an office closet (not pictured), plus rearranged the furniture. I recommended a glass chair mat to replace the brown mat.

As a result, the clients have both work and conversational 'zones' in their office. The focal points of the room are now the silver art piece, the sculptural furniture, and the spectacular views.

Living room 'before & after'

This client wanted a more open, comfortable living room that also serves as a home office. We sorted through every item, decluttered, and made use of a credenza (not pictured) to store categories of supplies gift wrap and games. We used drawers in the coffee table to store her work supplies and books.

As a result, her space is functional while still feeling cozy and calm. The focal points are now the inviting couch and the beloved portraits on the piano.

Clothes closet 'before & after'

This client wanted a calm, organized closet. We finished this in two hours after completing another project. We sorted through each item, decluttered into bags for ThredUp consignment and donations, and stored summer clothes in underbed storage. I recommended matching hangers for a clean aesthetic.

As a result, her current wardrobe is easily accessible. The focal points in the closet are now her colorful handbags and pretty clothes.

Ready to schedule an organizing session?

Happy to help!

Returning clients, text 206-932-2939 or email lisajoholtby@gmail.com.

New clients, please schedule a (free) consult call.

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Photos, FAQs, videos, and podcast interviews are on my website.

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