Make the most of the space underneath your staircase using these smart design concepts.
An under-the-stairs design can take on a multitude of forms.
Or, think about styling it as a place to greet guests and display your favorite decor pieces.
Credit: John Merkl
Use the following under-stairs storage ideas as inspiration for your own home.
Mini Mudroom
Brie Williams
Perhaps you have a bit more space to work with under anentryway staircase.
Include cubbies for baskets, hooks for hanging items, and abench that doubles as storageand seating.
Credit:Jay Wilde
Here, adding a partial wall next to the stairs allowed for another workstation in the kitchen.
Choose a slim design that won’t interfere with the flow of traffic.
Thick trim around the opening gives the alcove a finished look.
Credit:Helen Norman
Holiday Stow Away
David A.
Add a Drawer Wall
Open shelves aren’t the only option for below-stairs built-ins.
Custom-sized drawers take advantage of every inch of space beneath this staircase.
Credit:Brie Williams
Recessed-panel fronts and shiny glass knobs give the unconventional configuration a traditional appeal.
Shelves installed in a secondary niche showcase favorite accessories to add personality.
Consider upgrading this blank space by adding built-in shelves and cabinets.
Credit:Ann VanderWiel Wilde
Corral small items in baskets and other containers to keep the shelves looking tidy.
Recycling Center
John Bessler
Lacking space in the kitchen to collect recyclables?
Accessory Accommodation
Drawers that glide out from under the stairs are the perfect place toorganize winter gearyear-round.
Credit: Jeff Herr
Here, a built-in sofa tucks neatly next to the stairs tomake clever use of tight quarters.
Try Open Storage
Open stairs expose even more storage opportunities.
This staircase’s steep design allowed the homeowners to annex a nearby wall for additional storage.
Credit:David A. Land
The bookcase-like unit is equipped with adjustable shelves todisplay artworks, collections, and souvenirs.
Smart Landing Spot
Stair landings and nooks created by upward-turning staircases can supply ample storage space.
Consider using this area to set up a mini home office.
Credit: Werner Straube
Clever Cabinets
Double-door cabinets built into the under-stair area maximize this staircase’s functionality.
Glass knobs provide vintage style and shine.
These cased shelves make use of under-staircase space to house favorite volumes.
Credit: Jeff Herr
This staircase wall accommodates angled cabinets that increase in height along with the climbing steps.
Store-Bought Stair Solutions
Not all under-the-stair storage ideas require a major remodel.
For a cohesive look, paint the furniture pieces the same color.
Credit:Stacy Zarin Goldberg
Although the angled ceiling may be too short for adults, it’s the perfect height for kids.
If youre crafty, consider transforming the space under the stairs into a fun playhouse or hideout.
Here, a fire station facade with miniature sconces and windows invites little ones to come in and play.
Credit: Brie Williams
Carve Out a Family Center
Staircase recesses and a storage-packed wall partner to create an all-inclusive mudroom.
A basket on the lowest shelf helps keep smaller items contained.
Carve outa clofficeunder the basement stairs to set up shop away from others in the house and avoid interruptions.
Credit:John Bessler
Double staircases provided these homeowners with enough square footage to tuck in an office.
The desktop and storage shelves nestle against the far wall beneath the sloping ceiling.
An office chair moves back and forth between the office and living room as needed.
Credit:John Bessler
Folding doors close to hide the work area and messy in-process projects.
Stair-Stepped Storage
Ledges jutting outward from a wall expand display space in a gallerylike stairwell.
Capped and trimmed with decorative molding, the projections provide surfaces for displaying modern sculptures.
Credit: Keller and Keller Photography Inc
You could also place small baskets on each ledge to corral miscellaneous items to be put away later.
These built-out cabinets project only a few inches into the room.
Extra pantry staples and snacks are stored behind closed doors.
Credit:Werner Straube
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