HOW TO: CREATE A STORAGE BACKSPLASH

I have been wanting to add some storage to the "backsplash" of my garage cabinetry for a while; it was a previously unused space in my garage. I realize not everyone has cabinetry in their garage, but unused wall space and tool storage are pretty common pain points in a garage, so I hope there is a take away for everyone here. I could see something similar being utilized in a craft area as well, perhaps above a desk/ work area!

STEP 1: MEASURE

Measure your space and determine what products could be helpful in the space. You can purchase peg board systems super affordably from your local hardware store or on Amazon; however, I chose to go with the Elfa utility board system because it's excellent quality, I got it for 30% off, and it matched the finish of our cabinet hardware. I also liked all the different accessories I could purchase and how customizable it is.

STEP 2: IDENTIFY YOUR NEEDS

Identify your needs and what items you'd like to have stored on the wall. These should be items you want on display or would like to access frequently. I knew I wanted to display some numbers from our racing days, so I chose a magnetic strip. I also knew I had two beautiful short pieces of cedar leftover from another project as well as some narrow hooks, so it made sense to make a simple row of hooks to hold a couple medals, sunglasses, keys, etc. And finally, I knew I wanted to have two utility boards: one for my bike tools and another for "around the house" tools.

STEP 3: MAKE A PLAN

Draw out the space on a piece of paper and figure out what's going to fit. Keep an eye out for limitations such as outlets. I was originally hoping to run 4 of the Elfa utility boards, which would have run clear across my 8 foot countertop; however, outlets got in the way, and I didn't feel confident enough in my ability to cut metal to do it. The layout I came up with made the most sense for how frequently I used the items and where I would need the items i.e. hooks close to door into the house for sunglasses, keys, etc.

STEP 4: AQUIRE PRODUCT

Get what you need to get it done! There are lots of sales right now, so be sure to shop around.

STEP 5: INSTALLATION

Do a dry layout to make sure your drafted plans makes sense in real life. I made some very small spacing edits, but otherwise stuck to my plan. I first installed each of the Elfa utility boards, then the Three by Three Seatle magnetic strip and then finally my homemade row of hooks.

STEP 6: PLACE ITEMS BACK

Now, it's the fun part!! Start placing items into/ onto your organizational products. See what feels right! I don't think too hard about this...I just start putting items into place and then once I have it up, I shift things around rather then trying to plan it perfectly the first time.

STEP 7: ADMIRE YOUR WORK!

Sorry this video is a little dark, I took it in the evening and the lighting isn't super awesome in my garage. I think I may need to add some under cabinet lighting next....

I hope this gave some ideas for how you can maximize a commonly unused space in a garage. As always connect with me on social media to ask questions and share before and after photos!

Enjoy!