Mike,
Thank you for the kind words. I dislike clutter and try to make the shave den reflect that. Since space is limited in my humble condominium, soaps and cream are in the closet next to the sink, the same closet that houses trousers, shirts, my towels and additional shaving paraphernalia. Some 30 or 40 soaps and creams, brushes, etc. — foolishly bought — pack three big plastic drawers under the razor counter.
The two straight razor racks on the counter have been a blessing. I still plan to have my wife stain them — she loves to work with wood. Each holds 12 straight razors. The racks that hold the double edge razors are stainless steel — and another blessing to have. The few strops that I have left hang on hooks on the back of the bedroom door. For the daily stropping, I have a little hook just below the counter.
The family calls me a neat-freak. You bet. Everything is clean and in immaculate shape. The mostly vintage straights don't have a spec of rust on them, or stain or any other nasty stuff one sees on many razors, new or vintage. Many of those razors I've had for years, and they're still in perfect shape — all my razors are honed and shave ready. The double edge razors are kept in perfect shape, too, including the old Gillettes. Listen, it's my stuff and I take care of it. If I were to give one important advice, among others, to newbies, it would be to take care of your stuff.
Such fun to fade away daily in my little corner of paradise.