Let’s be honest, the area under your stairs is often overlooked or underused – but having storage installed into this space could help it become one of the most practical areas of your home. 

There’s so much that you can do with under stair storage, and there are many advantages to utilising this space. But should you DIY it or enlist the help of a professional to do it for you?

In this blog, we’ve included a quick guide on how you can achieve this yourself, and we’ve also explored the pros and cons of DIY versus professional installation to help you decide which option is best for you.

Fitted under stairs storage​: the benefits

Whether you’re short on storage or simply want to make the most of every square foot in your home, under stairs storage offers a stylish and functional upgrade. There are many benefits of installing under stairs storage, including: 

It provides you with extra storage space

One of the most obvious, and valuable, benefits of under stairs storage is the extra room it gives you. From organising shoes, coats and bags, to storing cleaning supplies and even your vacuum cleaner, a custom-built space like this can be tailored to suit you and your family’s needs.

There are many different design options to choose from, such as shelving, pull-out drawers and cupboard doors, allowing you to create a storage solution that is completely functional and accessible, as well as being discreet.

It helps keep your home clutter-free

There’s nothing worse than walking into your home to be faced with a cluttered hallway. The good news is under stairs storage provides a dedicated place for those everyday items that often end up scattered about the place, such as school bags, umbrellas and dog leads.

By having a home for these types of items, you should find it much easier to maintain a tidy, organised and clutter-free space. 

It could increase the value you of your home

Smart storage solutions can be highly attractive to potential buyers – especially if the property is short on storage space in the first place. Fitted under stairs storage enhances functionality in the home, and it also demonstrates thoughtful, high quality design, which in turn can help boost the appeal and market value of your property. 

How to build a cupboard under your stairs​​

From hiding day-to-day clutter, storing seasonal items or simply adding a functional feature to your home, building a cupboard under your stairs is a great DIY project to get stuck into. Here, we provide a simple step-by-step guide on how you can achieve this yourself. 

Step 1: Make a plan

Before you pick up any tools, it’s important to make a clear plan. Start by measuring the space under the stairs, taking the high, depth and any angles into account. It can help to think about which items you intend to store there as this will influence the layout of the space and the type of storage you will need. 

You might find it useful to draw up a rough design, sketching out exactly what you vision for the space. Taking the time to plan at this stage can help you avoid costly mistakes later on.

Step 2: Create the structure

Once you have finalised your designs, it’s time to prep the space so that you can create the structure. Clear out any items, and if needed, remove any plasterboard to expose the framework of the area.

It’s important to ensure the space is fully supported. You can do this by using timer battens that are securely fixed to the floor, wall and stair stringer – this is the structural member that runs along the sides of the staircase.

Constructing a well-built framework will help form the skeleton of the cupboard. You should make sure it is completely level and fully secured. Depending on the design of the space, you may also need to build stud walls or fit a backing board for extra support.

Step 3: Build the storage units

Now that the structure is in place, you can then create the internal storage. Whether you’ve chosen to include drawers, cubbyholes or hanging space, it’s important to use high quality materials that have been cut to size, as well as the correct equipment. Make sure that you understand how to safely handle any tools you’ll be using too.

When it comes to creating the internal sections of your unit, do your research ahead of time. Understand the different techniques you’ll need in order. It can be useful to read tips online and watch YouTube tutorial videos. 

Step 4: Install the doors 

Depending on your designs, and if there is space available, you could fit hinged doors, sliding panels or handleless openings. Make sure that you measure and cut the doors to size, and attach them using suitable runners or hinges. It’s important to make sure that the doors are aligned properly, and that they open and close smoothly. 

At this stage, you could also think about adding panelling or shaker-style detailing to the doors for a stylish, cohesive look.

Step 5: Add the finishing touches

It’s now time to add the finishing touches to your newly built storage. Sand down any rough edges, and fill gaps with wood filler. You can also paint or stain the front of the cupboard so that it blends seamlessly with the rest of your interior decor. Add door knobs or handles, and you could even install lighting inside the cupboard.

Consider your staircase style: Floating staircases and storage solutions

If you have a floating staircase, you might be wondering whether under stairs storage is still possible — the answer is yes, but it requires a tailored approach. Unlike traditional staircases, floating staircases don’t usually have risers or visible structural supports, which means the area beneath is more open and airy. This makes it a popular design choice for modern homes, but it also presents unique challenges when it comes to storage.

At Jarrods Staircases, we specialise in crafting bespoke under stairs storage solutions for all staircase types, including floating staircases. We carefully design and fit storage that complements the clean, open look of your stairs while making the most of the available space. Whether it’s sleek pull-out drawers or concealed cupboards, we’ll ensure the design enhances rather than disrupts your staircase’s visual impact. If you’re considering floating stairs or already have them, speak to our team about how to integrate smart, functional storage without compromising the staircase’s design.

 Should you DIY or hire a professional?

With a little planning and patience, building a cupboard under your stairs can be a rewarding DIY project that can elevate your home’s storage and style. Taking on the task yourself could mean that you have the potential to save money, especially if you’re on a budget. There’s a good chance you’ll enjoy the experience too, not to mention the feeling of total satisfaction with the result once it’s complete.

However, a DIY project like this can be tricky. Generally speaking, the space under your stairs is likely to be awkwardly shaped, making it difficult to get accurate measurements which could scupper your calculations when it comes to cutting your materials to size. This can mean that you end up with less-than-perfect results – a frustration you want to avoid. It can also be time consuming, and you might find it hard to fit in your DIY project around your other commitments. 

If you’re not feeling confident to take on the challenge yourself, you might want to consider hiring the help of a professional, like Jarrods Staircases. Enlisting experts will ensure high quality craftsmanship and a perfectly precise fit, especially if your under stairs storage design is complex or if it’s a small space that you want to maximise to its full potential.

What’s more, a professional company would be able to complete the project in a timely manner, meaning that you’ll be able to enjoy and utilise your newly built storage as soon as possible.