If it seems like there can never be enough room in your house, you may want to consider an area that often goes unused. That triangle of empty space underneath a staircase offers plenty of possibilities depending on what you and your family needs. If that space isn’t already being used, you can add under-stairs shelving and transform it into statement built-ins or other smart under-stairs storage ideas. With a little more creativity, you can convert it into mini home office or even a petite playroom for the kids. Here are 10 clever under-stairs ideas that you can customize to maximize your home’s space.
Ways to Use the Space Under Your Stairs
Mini bar
Sometimes you want to go where everybody knows your name. Well, you may not be able to recreate the atmosphere of the 80s sitcom Cheers, but you can certainly turn the area under the stairs into your own bar. Add in a waist-height cabinet with a countertop below and a mounted shelf above (if there’s room). Then stock it with spirits and glassware and you’re ready for cocktail hour. However, if vino is more your speed, you can build this space-saving storage place for your wine collection right under the steps.
Reading nook
Everyone seems to be buried in their phones these days. But if you want a refuge away from electronics to get back to old-fashioned reading, converting this niche under the stairs is the perfect place to do so. It can be as simple as sliding in a custom bench with hidden storage to store your favorite books, and be sure to pile it up with comfy pillows to make it as cozy as possible. Or you can add a small loveseat and a bookshelf or two.
Pet house suite
Would you prefer a hideout for your dog that’s tucked out of the way instead of an unsightly crate or a bulky bed taking up the corner of your living room? Or if you have kitty, perhaps he would be more comfortable with a retreat that’s away from the hubbub of the house (and even better if that huge cat tower can squeeze in there, too). Consider converting this dead space under the stairs into a miniature apartment for your pet to rest, relax, and feel right at home within your home.
Home office
More and more people are working from home these days, even if only part of the time. So it makes sense to create a dedicated setup just for you to work and right under the stairs can be a good spot if you don’t have an extra room to spare. Depending on how big the area is, you might be able to add a freestanding desk and even a door for privacy. But if you have less square footage there, the office alcove can still work in an open space with a wall-mounted desk.
Video: How to Build a Storage Bench
Seasonal storage
If your garage, attic, and basement are already being used for other things, you may want to think about stashing seasonal items, such as blankets, sweaters, holiday decorations and more, in a sneaky storage area where they are less likely to get damaged or be subject to extreme temperatures. You can either install a door or a system of built-in drawers to keep clutter hidden.
Hidden mudroom
Are you overwhelmed by all the coats, shoes, and bags in your entryway? If the front door area is small, it could quickly lead to mudroom chaos. Instead, opt to set up an extra drop zone for the family’s raincoats, boots, and such in the spot under the stairs. Installing a door will help keep these items out of view.
Statement shelves
Particularly if the area under the stairs is in the living or family room, it may be a good idea to mount built-in shelving that can become the focal point of the room. You can even paint the under-stairs shelving or the wall behind them a bold color and then decorate them with family photos, knickknacks, sports memorabilia, or other personal collections to make it your own.
Kid’s playroom
Are you tired of your living room turning into a miniature Legoland each time your children pull out their toys? Nor do you have to keep making excuses for the big pile of blocks on the living room floor when neighbors or friends drop by. Instead, transform the area underneath the stairs into a kid’s hideout so that they can have as much fun—and make all the mess—as they want—away from the rest of the house.
Extra pantry
If you could use additional storage in your kitchen to house extra dry goods, your growing stack of Tupperware, a special set of chinaware, or your slow cooker and other appliances, look no further than the place under the stairs. Fix it up with lots of sturdy shelves from floor to ceiling to maximize the storage capacity and install a door if you want to keep everything out of view.
Hobby hangout
Wish you had a cool little studio to practice your skills? Why not convert the space under the stairs into a place perfect for working on crafts, knitting, sewing, or other fun pursuits? Squeeze in a small table and chair and make sure you have good task lighting so you can see well. You just want to be mindful of using paint and other noxious materials in a small, enclosed space.