Here at Jarrods, we understand that every inch of your home is valuable real estate. That’s why our designers work hard to make the very most out of the area around and beneath the new and existing staircases we create and renovate. 

Often overlooked, when designed properly, this space can create both smart storage-focused features and practical functional spaces alike. So, whether you’re working with a compact terrace home or a more spacious detached property, it’s important to think about the ways in which you can transform the space under your stairs when remodelling. 

In this guide, we take a look at some of the best ways to utilise this space. This will include design ideas that can add both practicality and personality to your living environment, while still allowing you to fit your perfect staircase. 

 

How to utilise space under the stairs 

Before diving into specific ideas, it’s important to consider the unique characteristics of your staircase and home layout. Afterall, depending on your home, the space under stairs can vary significantly, from a small nook with barely enough room to swing a cat to a more substantial area with full-room potential. So before brainstorming design ideas, make sure you think about specifics. This should include:

• Measuring the dimensions of the available space
• Noting down the ceiling height (taking into account any gradients) 
• Identifying potential load-bearing constraints.

You should also think about your specific household needs. Are there pain points in your current home that this space could solve? For example, you may be struggling with:

• A lack of dedicated home office space
• Insufficient storage for clutter and everyday items
• No comfortable area for your pets
• A lack of play space for children / gaming area for teenagers
• No designated place for your family’s outdoor gear.

Remember, the goal is to create a solution that not only looks great but genuinely improves your daily living experience. By carefully assessing your space and needs, you can transform an overlooked area into one of the most functional and creative spots in your home.

 

5 ideas for the space under the stairs 

To give you a little inspiration, below we take a look at five ideas that can help you to make the very most of the space beneath your staircase.

 

Stylish storage solutions

Sometimes the simplest solution is the best one. And when it comes to under-stair space utilisation, it doesn’t come any simpler than creating custom-built storage solutions. Perfect for smaller homes with a lack of general storage space, a combination of cupboards, drawers, shelves, and cubbyholes can be incredibly useful – especially if you have a young family. Ideal for stairways located near the entrance of a home, bespoke storage solutions can be designed around the items that you and your family use most. This can include spaces for everyday items like shoes, schoolbags, coats and umbrellas or more unique items like walking boots, sporting gear, musical instruments, and/or other hobby equipment.

Ultimately, whatever you need the space for, the beauty of a custom under-stairs storage solution is its ability to blend seamlessly with your home’s existing design, turning what was once dead space into a practical and stylish feature.

 

A work-from-home office nook

Not everyone is lucky enough to have a dedicated room to act as a home office or study. However, this shouldn’t stop you from being able to create the ideal work-from-home workspace should you need one. The unutilised space under your staircase might be the perfect location for this. With clever built-in shelving, a compact desk, and good lighting, you can create a productive workspace that doesn’t compromise your home’s living area. If you’re worried about how it looks when not in use, you can even think about installing sliding or folding doors to conceal the workspace, maintaining a clean and uncluttered look.

 

 A place for your pets

Nowadays, pets are considered an extra family member. However, they rarely get their own dedicated room in the home. This can be remedied easily by utilising the unused space under your stairs to create a cosy retreat for your furry friends. A custom-built dog or cat bed nestled under the stairs can provide a secure, comfortable space for your pets. Simply add some soft bedding, built-in storage for pet supplies, and maybe even a little window or integrated feeding station. This approach not only gives your pets their own dedicated space within your home but also helps to keep their essentials neatly organised.

 

A mini bar or coffee station

Okay, so this is a bit more out there – but stick with us. For those who love entertaining or enjoy their morning coffee ritual, why not use this space to do what you love? Convert the under-stair area into a stylish mini bar, complete with spirit optics or a minimalistic coffee station. To do this, all you need to think about is installing a small countertop, some shelving for glasses or mugs, and a mini-fridge or coffee machine. Add some mood lighting and you’ve created a focal point that’s both functional and a bit quirky.

 

A relaxation area for your kids

As all parents know, trying to corral your children into one area of the house is like herding cats. However, this task can be made a little easier if they have a space of their own, aside from their bedroom, where they can play and relax. For smaller homes where a dedicated playroom is not possible, the unutilised space underneath your staircase could provide a suitable alternative.

With a little imagination, you can create a secret hideaway complete with cushions, soft lighting, and built-in book shelves that you children will love. This not only provides a fun space for kids but also helps to keep toys organised and contained in one area. This idea can also be modified for older children, with gaming nooks or beauty stations also options. 

For more information or advice about how you can utilise the space under your stairs, or staircase renovations more generally, get in touch with our friendly team today.