I don't actually have ADHD - let's be honest, many people are just jumping on the neurodivergent bandwagon to explain their scattered, social media dopamine-obsessed brains. Shade aside (lol), I was diagnosed with dyslexia, dyspraxia, and dyscalculia at age five. Dyspraxia often gets compared to ADHD thanks to its signature disorganisation and klutzy behaviour, making tidiness a lifelong struggle.
Since founding The Artisan Lab, I’ve genuinely seen a shift. Having storage solutions that are both accessible and aesthetically pleasing has changed the game - especially when it comes to clothes that used to mysteriously vanish (RIP to all my lonely lonely socks).
Little Miss Clutzy - Finding My Keys (Finally!)
I no longer lose my keys half as much as I did before - I always leave them on the table in one of the bigger 'Intango' bowls. I like to use a colourful design because it makes me see where I've left things more easily.
Laundry is More Fun
Well only if I have a sick playlist (so I can dance and clean at the same time) - l but now I have more of a rhythm or structure- I divide my clothes into one basket for darks and another for whites, and I actually stick to it because I like my laundry baskets! Colour coding helps me stay organised while keeping things aesthetic.
Ciao Plastic, Hola Sisal
My storage solutions now feel aligned with my 'artisan' aesthetic. Our sisal baskets are made of 100% natural fibres that complement the natural materials in my home (linen, cotton, and wood). Those plastic containers just made me feel sad—research shows that having a house with natural materials, greenness, and a window view all contribute to making your home more 'restorative.'
Storage Space = More Headspace
I’m aware that I’m roughly ten years late to the Marie Kondo party—but hey, at least you’re not supposed to bring anything. Shoutout to my mum for doing an early clear-out of anything that didn’t ‘spark joy’ (including half my childhood). I once thought minimalism was boring and sterile, but researching basketware taught me the connection between storage and mental health. 'Disorganisation' creates poor self-image, and studies show cluttered environments raise cortisol levels and impair memory. Read this if you feel like getting your Nat Geo on.
Breaking the Consumerist Loop
I'm less consumerist now because my organised baskets reveal exactly what I already own - far too much! When we're untidy, we anxiously buy things as a coping mechanism, but these storage solutions broke my anxiety/consumerist loop. Instead of hiding the mess, I've transformed chaos to calm and actually enjoy tidying (kinda). If your space and brain feel cluttered, perhaps it's not about doing more but choosing less, choosing better, and getting that Huberman-approved dopamine rush from organisation instead.
FAQs:
What makes sisal baskets better than plastic storage?
Sisal baskets don't release harmful chemicals like VOCs (volatile organic compounds), which some plastics do. They're also more durable, visually appealing, and integrate harmoniously with your décor rather than looking like utilitarian storage.
How can aesthetic organisation systems help with neurodivergent challenges?
While not a cure, thoughtfully designed storage can reduce cognitive load and decision fatigue. The beauty of aesthetic baskets creates positive reinforcement that makes maintaining organisation more rewarding.
Do these work in small living spaces?
Absolutely! Many customers use them in compact flats, under-bed storage, or open shelving. Their versatility is key—one basket can serve multiple purposes depending on your current needs.
What scientific benefits do natural materials provide?
Beyond the environmental advantages, research indicates biophilic elements (natural materials and forms) in your living space can reduce stress, improve focus, and enhance overall wellbeing - creating what researchers call "restorative environments."
