That awkward space around a stairway is basically prime real estate, especially when your closets are already doing the most.
Closed Cabinets With Doors
For a cleaner look, I box in the stairway void with under-stair cabinets and simple shaker-style doors. In my builds, matching the trim to the stair skirt board makes the whole thing blend like it was always there.
May just do the trick:
- Round Cabinet Knobs: Upgrade your cabinet doors with classic round metallic knobs to perfectly match that timeless Shaker style.
- Woven Seagrass Storage Basket: Add texture and practical floor storage near your built-ins with a large, natural woven basket.
- Floating Wood Shelves: Create a seamless look in alcoves next to your cabinets with sturdy, natural wood floating shelves.
Classic Under-Stair Shelving
When I need a fast win, I add under-stair shelves from simple plywood and face-frame them in pine for that clean built-in look. In my own projects, baskets on the lower shelves keep the “messy stuff” hidden while still easy to grab.
Some handy options:
- Woven Storage Baskets: Hide clutter elegantly by sliding these textured baskets onto lower shelves for easy, organized access.
- Decorative Picture Frames: Personalize your open shelving space quickly by displaying art or family photos in classic wood frames.
- White Ceramic Vases: Add a touch of brightness and texture to your display shelves with a simple ceramic vase.
Full-Height Coat Closet
I’ve framed in the tall end of a stairway for a coat closet under the stairs, and it instantly fixed the jacket pile-up by the door. A sturdy wood rod and a top shelf are all I needed to make it feel like real closet space.
Try these:
- Heavy-Duty Closet Rod: Install a sturdy rod to maximize vertical space and keep heavy winter coats organized and accessible.
- Wooden Coat Hangers: Use matching wooden hangers to create a uniform, upscale look that properly supports heavier garments.
- Woven Storage Baskets: Add textured baskets to lower shelves for hiding loose accessories like scarves, gloves, and shoes.
Mudroom Bench and Cubbies
A stairway is perfect for a mini drop zone, so I like building a mudroom bench under the stairs with cubbies and hooks. I’ve found a flip-up bench seat is gold for hiding hats, dog leashes, and the random stuff that never has a home.
Check if these fit your needs:
- Woven Storage Baskets: Keep your entryway tidy by organizing shoes and accessories in these durable and stylish woven baskets.
- Bench Seat Cushion: Add immediate comfort to your mudroom seating area with a supportive cushion suitable for daily use.
- Wall Hooks: Maximize vertical storage space by installing sturdy hooks perfect for hanging coats, bags, and hats.
Reading Nook With Storage Bench
A reading nook under the stairs is cozy on its own, but I always sneak storage into the bench base with drawers or lift-top lids. I’ve used reclaimed wood for the trim so the stairway corner feels warm and intentionally “built-in.”
These products might be useful:
- Woven Storage Basket: Add rustic charm and extra organization to your nook with a sturdy, decorative basket for blankets.
- Textured Throw Blanket: Create an inviting atmosphere by draping a soft, textured throw over your bench or railing.
- Decorative Throw Pillow: Enhance comfort and style on your bench instantly by adding a few accent pillows in warm tones.
Open Display Shelves in the Triangle
That stairway triangle is begging for open display shelving, and I love styling it with books, pottery, and a couple of baskets for the not-so-pretty items. In my house, a few wood shelves with a matte finish made the whole stairway feel more finished.
A few relevant products:
- Woven Seagrass or Hyacinth Baskets: Conceal small items and add pleasing texture to your shelves with these versatile, natural-material storage solutions.
- Modern Minimalist Ceramic Vases: Style your open shelves effortlessly by adding ceramic vases in neutral tones for a clean, curated look.
- Decorative Bookends: Keep your favorite reads organized and upright while adding a subtle, functional accent to your display shelves.
Slide-Out Linen and Towel Tower
A skinny pull-out cabinet under the stairs is perfect for folded towels, extra bedding, and bulk paper goods. I’ve built these as tall rollouts with shallow shelves so nothing gets lost in the back.
Items that may come in handy:
- Slim Rolling Storage Cart: Slide this narrow cart into tight gaps to organize toiletries and towels without needing custom carpentry.
- Woven Storage Baskets: Store extra linens or laundry in these baskets to replicate the stylish, natural look shown here.
- Clear Apothecary Jars: Keep cotton balls, soaps, and small essentials visible and tidy on your new open shelving units.
Kids’ Toy Garage Under the Stairs
For families, I’ve built a toy storage zone under the stairs with labeled bins and low shelves kids can actually reach. The stairway stays calmer when everything has a “parking spot” that isn’t the living room floor.
Consider these options:
- Long Low Profile Cube Organizer: Create the foundation of your toy garage with a sturdy, low shelving unit perfect for accessible kid-friendly storage.
- Fabric Storage Cubes with Label Windows: Keep smaller toys sorted and organized using these soft bins that feature handy slots for custom categorization labels.
- Round Woven Rope Baskets: Stash larger bulky items like stuffed animals or blankets in these durable, natural-looking decorative baskets for easy access.
Pet Nook With Supply Drawer
One of my favorite builds is a pet nook under the stairs with a little sleeping cubby and a drawer for food and toys. I’ve trimmed the opening in wood and added a wipeable base so the stairway corner stays cute and practical.
A few choices to try:
- Textured Throw Pillow: Add comfort and style to your pet’s corner with a durable, decorative pillow that complements neutral interiors.
- Neutral Pet Bed Cushion: Create a cozy sleeping spot for your furry friend with a soft, rectangular cushion that fits snug spaces.
- Woven Storage Basket: Keep toys or blankets organized nearby with a natural woven basket that matches the nook’s warm aesthetic.
Flip-Down Desk and Charging Niche
A fold-down desk under the stairs is a lifesaver for bills, homework, or quick laptop time without dedicating a whole room. I’ve tucked a power strip into a little wood cubby so the stairway becomes a neat charging station when the desk is closed.
Explore these options:
- Compact Secretary Desk: Create an instant workspace in small nooks with a fold-down secretary desk that hides clutter when closed.
- Decorative Desktop Power Strip: Keep your devices charged and accessible by adding a stylish, compact power strip to your desk setup.
- Dried Flower Bouquet: Add a touch of natural beauty and softness to your workspace with a low-maintenance dried floral arrangement.
Secret Door Storage in the Stairway
For a real wow factor, I’ve done hidden stairway storage with a disguised panel that opens like a door, perfect for tools, keepsakes, or emergency supplies. Using the same wood grain and trim as the stairway makes it practically invisible until you know the trick.
Products that could assist:
- Push-to-Open Latches: Install these magnets to create handle-free doors, keeping your secret storage panel completely smooth and hidden.
- Concealed Soss Hinges: Use these invisible hinges to ensure your secret door sits flush without any exposed hardware showing.
- Light Oak Wood Veneer Sheet: Cover your storage panel with matching veneer to seamlessly blend the door into your existing staircase wood.
