Awkward no more: that space under the stairs

28 February 2016

We could all use a little more functional space in our homes. And sometimes you don’t see it when it’s right under your nose. Or stairs. Here are a few ways you can make use of some very valuable, forgotten real estate.

 
A close-up image of a kids’ playroom made under a staircase, with a textile hanging as an entrance and a box filled with toys.
 
Hooks are hung on the wall under a staircase to hold outerwear. A doorfront is also hung on the wall, with hooks on it to hold shoes.

The sort-of closet 

Short on closet space? Make those stairs work double duty by mounting hooks to hang your outerwear. And the lower the hook, the easier it is for little ones to grab their own stuff. If you really want to maximise your wall storage, consider mounting a door front on hinges and add some hooks for shoes. Place a mirror behind it for quick outfit checks.
A doorfront is hung on the wall, with hooks on it to hold shoes.
 
Hooks are hung on the wall under a staircase to hold outerwear, and a mirror hangs behind a mounted doorfront.
 
 
 
 
 
 
Home office supplies are stored under a staircase in a basket, a trolley, and a bookshelf.

The office space

Perfectly sized storage items like baskets, trolleys and shelves can give you extra space for supplies and paperwork if you don’t have an office in your home. For a more seamless look, try keeping them all within the same colour scheme (we went with grey).
A close-up image of home office supplies stored under a staircase in a basket, a trolley, and a bookshelf.
 
A close-up image of home magazines stored in a textile basket.
  
A kids playroom made under a staircase, with a textile hanging as an entrance, some cushions, a book shelf, and a box filled with toys.

The hideaway

Everyone needs some privacy from time to time. Yup, even kiddos. An under-the-stairs escape is just the right size and a totally cosy spot to curl up with a favourite toy, book, or even to just take a nap.

Woven baskets holding stuffed animals hang from the staircase.
 
Woven baskets holding stuffed animals hang from the staircase.
 
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