Do you have a staircase in your home? If so, there is a space under your stairs, which many people ignore or never pay attention to. This is a prime space in your home to be used for maximum storage or maximum functionality. What to do with space under the stairs? The options are limitless! Need more storage, office space, or simply a functional space under the stairs? We have tons of under the stairs space ideas to transform your space under stairs to fully take advantage of underused space.
Why Should You Use the Space Under Stairs?
Homeowners often find themselves puzzled when it comes to utilizing the space under stairs. It’s an awkward nook that’s all too easy to overlook. But is it wasted space, or could it be put to better use? Actually, with some creative planning, the under-stairs area can become an extra spot for storage, a cozy nook, or even a fully functional home office. There are numerous clever solutions out there, whatever you want to do with the space.
In this handy guide, we’ll take a look at what to do with space under a staircase. From practical solutions to clever ideas for how to make the most of this hidden spot, we’ll show you how to transform it into a useful feature.
Ideas to Utilize the Space Under Stairs
Here are some space under stairs ideas to help you maximize this area:
| Idea | Description |
| Storage Solutions | Use the space for shelves, drawers, or a cupboard to store everyday items like shoes, bags, and cleaning supplies. |
| Home Office | If you don’t have an extra room for a desk, turn the space under the stairs into a small office with a desk, shelves, and comfortable seating. |
| Reading Nook | Create a cozy corner with a bench, cushions, and bookshelves for a peaceful reading space. |
| Pantry | Perfect for storing non-perishable goods, turning the space into a pantry will free up valuable kitchen space. |
| Pet Den | Set up a dedicated space for your pet with a bed and storage for their toys and food. |
Transforming under the stairs into an organized storage area or a relaxing nook can significantly increase the functionality of your home.
How to Use Space Under the Stairs for Storage
Storage is one of the most popular functions people find for space under the stairs. Clever storage can keep your home neat, tidy, and clutter-free. What to do with the space under the stairs for storage? We have some ideas for you:
- Shelves: Shelves are the perfect way to store shoes, hats, and bags, keeping them out of the way and your hallway looking tidy.
- Drawers & Cupboards: Fitted drawers or cupboards are great for keeping cleaning supplies, tools or other home essentials out of sight.
- Pull-out Racks: Pull-down coat rails or boot racks are a great functional, yet hidden, storage solution.
These ideas can easily help you make the most of the space you have under stairs, without compromising on style or practicality. Custom-built storage options, such as fitted cupboards, can be tailored to your needs and built to blend in seamlessly with your home. And if you’re upgrading your stairs, consider Laminate Flooring For Stairs, which offers a stylish, low-maintenance option that complements any under-stair storage solution.
Turn the Space Under Your Stairs Into a Home Office
Home offices are an absolute must in this day and age. If you don’t have a spare room in which to put one, under the stairs is a great alternative location. Read on to find out how to use space under stairs for a home office. With a little bit of ingenuity, you can squeeze a desk, a couple of shelves and even a comfy chair under the stairs.
Fit a compact desk and some storage solutions, and you’ll have a handy workspace for homework, admin jobs or the occasional work-from-home day. Light up the area with lighting solutions, and you’ll have a productive, well-lit space for working. You won’t have to give over any more space in your home, either!
Flooring Options for Under Stairs Storage
When it comes to under the stairs spaces, choosing the right flooring is just as important as the storage solutions. Since the area typically experiences frequent foot traffic, you need a flooring material that is durable, easy to clean, and visually appealing. Here are some great options to consider:
- Laminate Flooring: Laminate Flooring For Stairs is an excellent choice due to its durability, ease of maintenance, and affordability. It can mimic the look of wood or stone, providing a stylish yet functional surface for under-stair spaces. Plus, the laminate is scratch-resistant, making it ideal for high-traffic areas.
- Vinyl Flooring: Another durable and low-maintenance option, vinyl comes in a variety of styles and textures, and it’s great for areas that might be exposed to moisture or spills. It’s also very budget-friendly compared to hardwood options.
- Solid Wood Flooring: For a more classic, elegant look, solid wood flooring provides timeless beauty and durability. It can add a warm, natural feel to your under-stair space, though it may require more upkeep than laminate or vinyl.
- Carpet: If you’re looking for a softer, more comfortable feel, carpet can work well in under-stair spaces, particularly if it’s not a high-traffic area. It’s ideal for creating a cozy reading nook or a tucked-away space. However, carpet may need more frequent cleaning than harder flooring options.
- Tiles: If you want something that’s both stylish and practical, tiles are another great option, especially in high-traffic areas like kitchens or hallways. They’re easy to clean, resistant to spills, and come in endless designs to suit any home decor.
Why Flooring Choice Matters
The right flooring can enhance the functionality of your under-stair storage by making it more durable and easy to maintain. It can also improve the overall look of the space, blending seamlessly with your home’s style. Whether you’re opting for something sleek like laminate or something more natural like solid wood, choosing the right flooring helps ensure that the area under your stairs remains both practical and aesthetically pleasing for years to come.
What Is the Space Under Stairs Called?
You may be asking, what is the space under the stairs called? It’s usually referred to as a “staircase void” or simply an “understairs” space. It’s a surprisingly common feature that many homeowners forget about. With a little creativity, this space can be transformed into a functional area. Whether you’re looking for under the stairs space ideas to create more storage, a cozy nook, or even a small office, the potential is endless.
Flooring Considerations for Under Stairs Spaces
When converting the space under your stairs, choosing the right flooring is essential. Whether you’re installing Solid Wood Flooring, Herringbone Flooring for Stairs or Laminate Flooring for Stairs, your chosen flooring needs to be hard-wearing and easy to maintain to keep up with the amount of footfall it is likely to experience.
If you’re not sure what flooring would best suit your understairs conversion, get in touch with the team at Flooring Surgeons, who will help you find the perfect match.
For instance:
- Solid Wood Flooring is a great way to make your understairs conversion area feel both luxurious and durable. Hardwood flooring is a popular choice in high-traffic areas, such as hallways or landings, so the underside of stairs is no different.
- Herringbone Flooring for Stairs is another high-end flooring option for your understairs conversion. It is similar to the herringbone pattern you might see on staircases but provides a contemporary look for your understairs area while still keeping the traditional aesthetic of herringbone.
- Laminate Flooring for Stairs is a cheaper, low maintenance alternative to hardwood flooring for your understairs conversion that is just as stylish.
Once you have sorted and organized the space under your stairs into a livable area, you can even use your staircase as part of your seasonal décor. If you’re looking for ideas on how to decorate your staircase for Christmas, consider adding festive garlands or lights. You might even have a custom display for your newly organized under stairs shelves to add a warm and welcoming touch to your home this holiday season.
Conclusion
In summary, how to use the space under stairs for storage is limited only by your imagination and willingness to maximize the potential of this often-overlooked space. With a little creativity and some planning, you can turn it into one of the most functional and attractive areas in your home. Whether you opt for under the stairs space ideas like storage solutions, a home office, a cozy nook, or a pet den, the under-stair space is a versatile area that can add style and functionality to your home. For more professional advice on flooring or design, Flooring Surgeons can help you make the most of your understairs space and choose the right flooring options.
