As more and more appliances make their way into our homes, so do electrical wires. Instead of leaving them in plain sight, why not hide them?
In addition to improving the aesthetics of your interior design, hiding your electrical wires also makes your home safer and reduces the risk of tripping. So there's a good reason to get your rooms a little more organized!
Need some ideas for hiding your wires? Here are just a few that might inspire you.
1. Use cable trunking, conduit or wire covers
There are a variety of cable covers available in stores that are ideal for camouflaging a variety of wires or multiple outlets you may have around the house. Not only are they simple and convenient, but they're also an inexpensive option for many different situations.
Depending on your needs, you can choose boxes, cases or tubular channels. These can then be fixed to the floor, wall or ceiling to conceal and protect your electrical cables.
There's a wide variety of shapes, sizes and materials to choose from. Some models also offer more discreet and elegant options and can add an extra decorative touch to your space, for example in the form of decorative moulding. A great way to combine practicality and aesthetics.
Photo: Pinterest (IKEA)
2. Hide your cables in storage boxes or decorative baskets
Following on from the previous point, you could opt for a more crafty method and decide to camouflage your cables with fabric or wicker baskets, or decorative boxes. The stores are full of all kinds of models. It's easy to find one in a size and pattern that matches your decor.
Once purchased, all you have to do is cut a hole in the box to let the wires through. That way, your cables, chargers, and power strips are accessible but well hidden.
3. Paint your cords the same colour as the wall
Another simple trick for hiding your cables on a wall is to secure them neatly and then paint them the same colour as the surface. This will reduce the visible contrast between the colour of your wall and the colour of your wires, and the latter will go unnoticed.
You can use the same principle for wires running along the floor.
4. Hide your cords behind furniture
You can try to rearrange your rooms to organize your furniture to hide the wires behind it. Using extension cords can help.
Whenever possible, choose furniture with built-in cable channels. This is usually the case with TV stands or some computer desks. This allows you to run the wires through the furniture itself, keeping them out of sight.
If the furniture you choose doesn't have a built-in channel, you can drill a hole in a drawer or above or behind the furniture yourself - using the right tools, of course - to run your cables through.
5. Integrate cables into walls
If you're a do-it-yourselfer who enjoys renovation projects, consider running your wires directly into the walls of your home for total concealment. Opt for built-in outlets that minimize wire exposure, or drill a hole in the bulkhead of your appliance to expose the wire near the outlet.
Like the idea, but feel uncomfortable doing it yourself? Don't hesitate to hire a professional to make sure you get the job done right.
Photo: Pinterest (mediterranea-usa)
6. Create patterns with wires
As an alternative to hiding them, you can use your wires to create a decorative element. The idea is simple: use your wires to create a silhouette or shape on the wall. Use your imagination to create an interesting pattern and secure your wires with a variety of invisible fasteners.
There are also ornamental fasteners that not only hold your wires in place but also decorate them.
7. Use a wire manager
To better organize all your wires, be aware that cable managers are available in stores. These holders keep all your wires together and prevent them from tangling. They're also easy and discreet to install under or behind your furniture to hide the clutter.
In addition to cable managers, you can also simply tie your wires together with tie wraps or Velcro. This will keep them tidy and prevent them from hanging loose.
Whatever solution you choose to hide your wires, remember to follow current safety standards when handling them and make sure everything is installed correctly. Never overload outlets and only use equipment that is in good condition. Aesthetics should never take precedence over practicality and safety.
Do you have a real estate project?
XpertSource.com can help you find a real estate expert. When you tell us about your project, we put you in touch with qualified resources for free. Simply fill out our form (it only takes a few minutes) and we will connect you with professionals.
