As the holidays approach, there’s no better time to refresh your home and get organized. For me, the back door of my house has always been a “catch-all” zone—a cluttered landing spot for everything from screwdrivers and staplers to gloves and umbrellas. This holiday season, I decided it was time to reclaim this space and create a welcoming, functional area for family and guests alike.

Here’s how I tackled the project, with a bonus refresh that cost just $5! It’s the holidays, get ready! Company is Coming!

Step 1: Assess the Space

First, I had to evaluate the chaos. This wasn’t just about removing clutter; it was about rethinking the purpose of the space. I needed to consider both functionality and aesthetics while keeping one major challenge in mind: my attic ceiling door. Its placement above the back door meant I couldn’t add tall shelving or hooks too close to the area, which required careful planning.

Step 2: Declutter and Organize

I started by sorting through the pile. My rule of thumb? If it didn’t belong by the back door, it needed a new home. Seasonal items like umbrellas and gloves were organized into bins, while tools like screwdrivers found their way back to the toolbox.

To keep the space manageable, I took a shelf and added basket for grab-and-go organization for items like staplers and gloves. Everything else got the boot!

Step 3: Level Up with a Fresh Paint Job

With the clutter gone, I turned my attention to the door itself. Over the past 13 years, it had seen its fair share of wear and tear. I decided it was time for a refresh!

I chose Nature’s Gift, a gorgeous sage green shade from Behr, which I found at Home Depot. Instead of buying a full gallon of paint, I picked up a sample jar for less than $5. Believe it or not, that small amount was enough to cover both my kitchen door and the storm door.

The transformation was instant. The soft green hue added a fresh, cheerful vibe to the space and made the entire area feel intentionally designed.

Step 4: Add Simple Storage Solutions

To make the area both functional and stylish, I added:

• A sturdy mat to catch dirt and water from shoes.
• Wall hooks for frequently used items like coats and umbrellas.
• A shimmering gold Drum. (which fits under the attic door when it’s open) to hold the essentials like a basket and a small holiday plant for a festive touch.

Big Impact for Pennies

What I love most about this project is how small changes made such a big difference. For less than $5, the painted door became the star of the space, and simple organization turned my cluttered back door into an inviting area.

If you have a catch-all space in your home, take some time before the holidays to declutter, refresh, and reorganize. You’ll be amazed at how even a little effort can transform your home for the season—and beyond!

Do you have a catch-all area in your home? Let me know in the comments and share your own tips for getting organized for the holidays!