At NEAT Method, we believe in the power of organization to transform not just spaces, but lives. Recently, our Chicago teams had the privilege of partnering with Special Spaces Chicago to create dream bedroom makeovers for two remarkable siblings—16-year-old Olivia, who is battling cancer, and her 14-year-old brother, Monty.
A Meaningful Mission
Special Spaces is a nonprofit organization dedicated to creating dream bedroom makeovers for children with cancer. What began with one mother transforming a single room in Knoxville, TN, has grown into a nationwide movement operating in 10 states. Their volunteer directors have helped create more than 1,800 dream bedrooms—including over 400 in Illinois alone—all with the child as the lead designer.
"Special Spaces' mission of giving children battling serious illness a space to dream, play, and just be kids aligns perfectly with our belief that organized spaces create positive ripple effects throughout all aspects of life," says Kathryn Gute, owner of NEAT Method Chicago - Northwest Suburbs.
The Challenge: Time and Space
The two bedrooms had good bones—natural light, crown molding, and hardwood floors—but lacked effective storage solutions. Olivia and Monty had accumulated clothing and accessories with limited storage systems that were too small and lacked vertical solutions. One bedroom didn't even have a closet.
"The biggest challenge on Special Spaces makeovers is always TIME," explains Gute. "Makeovers happen in one day. The armoires, beds, and all other storage solutions were assembled on site in the morning, and all items had to be organized and placed within an 8-hour span."
Our Transformation Approach
For Olivia's room, the NEAT Method team installed armoires that stretched nearly wall-to-wall and maximized the vertical height of the room. Decorative accessories placed on top drew the eye upward. On the opposite wall, the Special Spaces team added a daybed with storage and created a gallery wall. To maximize closet accessibility, closet doors were removed and replaced with long curtains.
For Monty, the team provided a sizable wardrobe, a tall storage cabinet for hats and shoes, and a media armoire. They enhanced his gaming area with a large desk, 3D wall tiles, and 72-inch shelves to display his baseball collection.
"Meeting with the Special Spaces Dream Bedroom Coordinator in advance was crucial," notes Gute. "We reviewed dimensions of all storage solutions to pre-order NEAT Method products that would work best in each space. Our volunteers signed up for tasks best suited to their skill sets, and everyone brought their A-game to push through the heavy workload."
The Results: Joy and Function
Oxford Bins proved to be the most impactful product used throughout both spaces. "They truly are a perfect staple for organizing any drawer or shelf," Gute shares.
The reveal was such a joyful moment. "Both Olivia and Monty LOVED their rooms. They spent time opening the armoires, closet, and storage systems to see how beautifully organized all their items were. I know they loved the look and feel of these now-organized spaces that were transformed into places where they could relax and enjoy their surroundings, clutter-free," recalls the Special Spaces team. "Both parents wanted to move into the kids' rooms—they loved them so much!"
Creating Age-Appropriate Sanctuaries
Working with teenagers presented somewhat of a challenge, as they're in a state of transition and development. "We try to create a space that reflects who they are, their current interests, what grounds them, as well as where they're going," explains the Special Spaces team. "That usually requires a careful mix of 'growing the space up' and honoring the past."
A team of about 15 total volunteers that included NEAT, completed the entire transformation in a single day—exemplifying Special Spaces' motto: "Changing Children's Lives—One Child. One Room. One Day at a Time."
Through this rewarding collaboration, we were able to create more than just organized bedrooms—we helped create sanctuaries where these siblings could find comfort, peace, and the space to just be kids during an incredibly challenging time.
xx,
The NEAT Team
