That awkward triangle under your staircase can be one of the hardest spots to organize, which is exactly why it’s such a satisfying DIY win. I’ve built a bunch of under-stairs cupboard setups over the years, and the right mix of shelves, drawers, and custom doors can turn “dead space” into your favorite storage zone.
Pet Supply Cupboard and Cozy Nook
One of my favorite builds was an under-stairs cupboard that stored pet food in sealed bins, with a little open nook beside it for a bed. I added a simple half-door once, and it kept supplies hidden while still feeling warm and homey.
Maybe worth checking out:
- Airtight Pet Food Storage Container: Keep your pet’s food fresh and organized under the stairs with these durable, sealable storage bins.
- Cozy Orthopedic Dog Bed: Create a comfortable resting spot in your under-stair nook with a supportive, plush orthopedic pet bed.
- Woven Storage Basket: Store toys and accessories neatly while adding a rustic touch to your shelves with these baskets.
Classic Coat Closet Cupboard
I love turning an under-stairs cupboard into a mini coat closet with a rod up top and chunky hooks on a wood backer. In my builds, adding a slim shelf for hats and gloves instantly makes the whole entry feel more put-together.
Items that may come in handy:
- Woven Seagrass Storage Baskets: Organize hats and gloves stylishly by placing these textured baskets on your cupboards upper shelf for tidy storage.
- Vintage Double Coat Hooks: Maximize vertical hanging space by mounting these sturdy, classic-style hooks directly onto your cupboard’s wooden backer board.
- Natural Jute Area Rug: Protect your floors and add warmth to the entryway with a durable, textured rug placed outside the cupboard.
Mudroom Bench With Hidden Storage
One of my go-tos is an under-stairs cupboard with a built-in bench and lift-up seat so you can stash shoes, leashes, and tote bags inside. I’ve found that beadboard or shiplap-style paneling behind the bench gives it that cozy farmhouse vibe without trying too hard.
Try these:
- Decorative Throw Pillows: Add comfort and style to your nook by layering soft, textured pillows on your mudroom bench.
- Woven Storage Basket: Keep clutter contained and add natural texture with a durable tote, perfect for quick grab-and-go items.
- Black Cabinet Knobs: Upgrade your built-in storage drawers effortlessly with classic matte black hardware for a polished, custom look.
Angled Doors That Match the Stair Slope
When I want a clean look, I build custom cabinetry with doors cut to mirror the staircase angle so the whole under-stairs cupboard feels intentional. A simple wood grain finish makes those weird lines look like a design feature, not a compromise.
Possibly helpful picks:
- Woven Storage Basket: Add texture and practical storage like in the photo; use these large baskets to corral blankets or daily clutter.
- Small Round Cabinet Knobs: Replicate this minimal look by installing small, understated hardware that keeps the focus on the beautiful wood grain.
- Artificial Potted Plant: Brighten up dark corners under the stairs with realistic greenery that adds life without needing any sunlight.
Walk-In Pantry-Style Cupboard
If your stairs are near the kitchen, I’ve had great results building an under-stairs cupboard pantry with staggered shelves that get deeper as the space gets deeper. I like using simple wood boxes as “drawers” so you can pull snacks and baking stuff forward without climbing inside.
Useful items to consider:
- Airtight Glass Storage Jars with Wood Lids: Keep baking ingredients fresh and mimic the clean look of this pantry with these stackable, stylish glass canisters.
- Woven Wicker Storage Baskets: Use these durable baskets as pull-out drawers for easy access to loose snacks or linens on lower shelves.
- Clear Plastic Pantry Bins: Organize smaller packets and baking supplies efficiently so you can see exactly what you have at a glance.
Appliance Storage Cupboard
I once made an under-stairs cupboard that stored bulky appliances on roll-out trays, and it saved so much counter and cabinet space. If you add a little vent gap and cord pass-through, grabbing the heavy stuff feels way less annoying.
Might be a good match:
- Heavy-Duty Drawer Slides: Ensure your custom shelves glide smoothly by installing durable slides capable of supporting heavy kitchen appliances.
- Woven Storage Baskets: Organize appliance attachments and loose accessories neatly next to your mixer with these stylish, sturdy containers.
- Cabinet Vent Grille: Promote airflow inside your enclosed storage space by adding a discreet vent cover to the cabinetry.
Bookshelf Front With Lower Cupboards
I’ve done an under-stairs cupboard where the upper half is open bookshelves and the lower half is closed cabinet storage for board games and photo albums. It’s such a nice balance—pretty up top, practical down low.
Consider these options:
- Slim Gold Cabinet Pulls: Upgrade your lower storage doors immediately with sleek, modern hardware that adds a touch of understated elegance.
- Woven Seagrass Storage Basket: Add textured warmth to your floor space while hiding extra clutter with a natural, sturdy woven basket.
- Ceramic Textured Vase: Style your open shelves effortlessly using a modern ceramic vase perfect for holding dried pampas or florals.
Charging Station Cupboard
I’ve turned an under-stairs cupboard into a charging hub by adding a small shelf, cable holes, and a hidden power strip mount. The best part is being able to shut the door and make the whole cord mess disappear.
Possibly handy products:
- Wall-Mounted Power Outlet with USB Ports: Upgrade standard outlets with built-in USB ports to charge devices directly without needing bulky adapter bricks.
- Woven Storage Basket: Hide extra cables, power banks, or small electronics in a stylish basket to keep shelves looking tidy.
- Cable Management Clips: Secure charging cords along the back of your shelves or walls to prevent tangles and maintain organization.
Pull-Out Recycling and Trash Cupboard
In tighter homes, I’ve built an under-stairs cupboard with a pull-out platform for recycling and trash bins so they’re easy to access but not on display. I like adding a little upper shelf for spare bags and cleaning wipes so everything lives together.
Explore these options:
- Heavy-Duty Sliding Drawer Runners: Install sturdy pull-out slides to create a smooth, accessible platform for your heavy recycling bins.
- Slim Vertical Recycling Bins: Maximize narrow cupboard space with tall, slender bins designed to fit perfectly side-by-side.
- Matte Black Cabinet Pulls: Finish your custom cupboard with modern handles that offer a secure grip for opening heavy drawers.
Gift Wrap and Craft Supply Cupboard
This one’s a crowd-pleaser: I organize an under-stairs cupboard with vertical tubes for wrapping paper, skinny shelves for ribbons, and a shallow drawer for tape and scissors. The first time I built it, I couldn’t believe how much random “party stuff” finally had a home.
These products might help:
- Woven Storage Baskets: Tidy up loose items like fabric scraps or bows with these baskets that add natural texture to shelves.
- Wooden Storage Tray: Keep small essentials like scissors, tape, and tags organized and easily accessible on open shelving units.
- Cylindrical Storage Canisters: Store larger craft rolls, fabric, or paper vertically to maximize vertical shelf height and maintain visibility.
Hidden Bar Cupboard With a Countertop
I’ve made an under-stairs cupboard bar with a butcher-block-style top, bottle cubbies, and glass racks tucked under a shelf. Keeping it behind doors makes it feel a little secret and keeps the rest of the room looking calm.
A few choices to try:
- Wine Glass Storage Rack: Organize your stemware efficiently by installing racks inside your cabinets to keep glasses safe and accessible.
- Butcher Block Countertop: Create a durable and stylish surface for pouring drinks by adding a solid wood countertop to your setup.
- Stackable Wine Bottle Holder: Keep your favorite vintages organized and secure within shelving units using these versatile modular bottle racks.
Angled Wine Bottle Cubby Cupboard
A deep under-stairs cupboard is perfect for wine storage, and I’ve built diamond and horizontal cubbies that use every inch of that sloped space. A simple warm light strip makes the wood grain pop and gives it that “wow, you built this?” energy.
May just do the trick:
- LED Strip Light Kit: Illuminate your storage display with these flexible lights to highlight the wood grain and create ambiance.
- Solid Cabinet Handles: Upgrade your cabinet doors with sturdy black pulls to match the stair railing and provide contrast.
- Woven Storage Basket: Use a natural woven basket for storing smaller accessories while adding a touch of rustic texture.
