Whether it’s an apartment or a house, most of us have to be content with the limitations on space. That’s why even those awkward corners and oddly shaped nooks are precious, even though they test your creativity. However, the space under a staircase is one of the most versatile, and understated, areas in the home.
An easy, and therefore common, solution is to convert the area into storage space by installing pull-out drawers. But what if you could make it more interesting than that?
Worry not if you are stuck for ideas! Here are three easy ways to make use of that precious space under your stairs.
Set up a mini library
If you are a bibliophile who has always dreamed of having your own little home library, then look no further than the space under the stairs.
You can easily transform this space into a snug reading nook complete with a set of shelves for your books. Floating and open shelves will give a sense of casualness while bookcases with doors add gravitas. Throw in a small footstool and an armchair or a bench with cushions attached for laidback reading.
Wallpaper or paint a different colour on one or even two sides of the wall to separate the space. If you have a window in the area, then decorate it with cheerful blinds or curtains and pair it with a rug on the floor. Place a reading lamp or a floor lamp behind the armchair for some mood lighting during dark, wintry evenings. Lastly, attach a soundbar for some mellifluous background music to accompany your reading. Perfect for some quiet time, isn’t it?
Drinks station
Know your Arabicas from the Robustas? For coffee (or tea!) aficionados, there is nothing more delightful than a dedicated coffee bar at home. Here, you can try out different beans and roasts and pour yourself the perfect cup every day. Well, the space under the stairs can make your dream come true. Set up a coffee machine, shelves, and jars to store all your coffee accoutrements. Throw in a backsplash, round off with some coffee art, and you have a great coffee station right in your home.
Alternatively, convert the space into a wine bar. Put up a wine rack, pair it with a couple of bar stools and some pendant lights. But if that’s asking for too much space, go for a smaller wine rack, and hang a small glass holder or rack from the ceiling. Enough to create a stunning effect!
Art corner
The space under the stairs is perfect for displaying lovingly curated decorative items and artwork from all your travels.
Highlight the wall with a different colour and make it atmospheric with mellow lighting. Floating shelves would do great for displaying mementoes and small souvenirs paired with focus lighting. You can also do away with the shelves and hang paintings. Mix and match miniatures with large frames to give an art gallery effect. To complete the art gallery effect, add a bench or a comfy ottoman.