u/Oh--Hi-Mark

I want to update my little entryway with a nicer bench, more shoe and backpack storage, and something to replace the ugly cart. But I keep getting stuck because of dog food storage. The ugly cart has an important role- we keep the dog food container on it (the container's big, ugly snout sticks out) as well as other dog supplies, and we also stash stuff on top of it. The dog food and bowls really don't work in other places in my small home so they must be factored into my updates!

Anyone have suggestions for updating this little entryway, with a more functional bench situation and dog food storage hidden in plain sight Does anyone have a stylish, convenient way to store large quantities of dog food in their kitchen or entryway? Or a tidy dog feeding station set up?

Looking for ideas for dog food storage that is hidden in plain sight.

I have a large dog and typically buy 35-45 pound bags of kibble. Currently I store it in a Vittles Vault container that keeps the food fresh (the kibble never gets moldy and seems to retain moisture) and I like that the container is easy to refill and scoop the food from. But the container is ugly and bulky. It's dimensions (14.5"W/19"H/22"D) are difficult to accommodate within a piece of furniture. It doesn't fit under my sink or in my narrow pantry. I currently have it on the lower shelf of an ugly bar cart in my kitchen entry but it's big snout opening sticks out. Did I mention it's ugly! 🙃

I want to update my little entryway with a nicer bench with better shoe storage and something to replace the cart, but I keep getting stuck due to needing to consider dog food storage and bowl placement. They really don't work in other places in my small home so they must be factored into my updates!

Does anyone have a stylish, convenient way to store large quantities of dog food in their kitchen or entryway? Or a tidy dog feeding station set up?

I am not knowledgeable about bamboo, so perhaps this is an obvious question. I also don't know what species it is, maybe black bamboo?

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My bamboo has not been looking healthy this year. I'm in the PNW, zone 8a. The bamboo was already in my garden when I bought my house 8 years ago. Typically it is green and lush, and needs trimming every few weeks except in winter.

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This year it looks dry and pale like straw, and also fringy. No new shoots, few leaves. Does it have a disease? Is it dying? I'd appreciate any information or advice that can be provided!