23 Under-Stairs Storage Ideas to Use Every Inch of Space

on Feb 04, 2025

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Do you look at that awkward space under the stairs, imagining its potential, but not knowing where to start?

If your under-stairs space is a spot for kids to get dusty when they play hide-and-seek, I have 23 under-stairs storage ideas to use every inch of space and turn this wasted area into a treasure trove of possibilities.

Let’s talk about shoe storage, a bar area, a pantry, a bench, a book-lovers hideaway, or even a homework station.

Are you intrigued? Read on for my easy-to-do, budget-friendly ideas.

1. Laundry Area

Source: @our.homeat82

Do you have a small home with a washing machine in the entranceway? It’s like your guests are greeted by the spin cycle instead of a warm hug!

Why not move your washing machine and laundry essentials under the stairs? Everything is out of sight but still easily accessible.

And, you can jazz up your entranceway with a lovely plant or statement piece of wall art.

2. Hidden Drawers

Source: @ourhomeatthebarn

Here’s a fabulous DIY project idea for woodwork enthusiasts.

Install hidden drawers under the stairs and you instantly have loads of space to store anything from linen and blankets to seasonal clothing, toys, books, and sports gear.

3. Bar Area

Source: @spears_carpentry

Calling all entertainers! Would you love to have a small bar stocked with your favorite vintage wines, but have no space?

Use the space under your stairs to create a stylish, functional bar area for a small fridge and a selection of wines and spirits. This savvy homemaker used oak-faced MDF boards, a marble worktop, and stylish brass fittings like these to complete the look.

4. Push to Open Drawers

Source: @frqcarpentry

Show off your decor skills and install push to open drawers under the stairs.

This innovative design uses built-in springs that pop open when pressed, doing away with the need for handles or knobs. The sleek and clean design is perfect for a small space.

5. Shoe Storage

Source: @me_.plus_three

A family with kids seems to produce an endless supply of shoes in the hallway – sneakers, sandals, rain boots, school shoes, work shoes, you name it!

With smart under-stairs push-to-open storage, you can corral the footwear chaos and reclaim your floors.

6. Storage and Mounted TV Area

Source: @joinery_by_kd

Turn under-the-stairs space into a focal point by mounting your TV there – it’s out of the way, but perfectly positioned for all to enjoy.

Imagine how much space you’ll save in your family room or living room.

An innovative no-stud TV wall mount like this makes it super easy to mount your TV without drilling.

7. Pantry

Source: @gtwlhomes

Not having a pantry doesn’t mean you should struggle with kitchen essentials taking over your counter space.

Convert your under-stairs space into a pantry to store snacks, pet food, canned goods, plates, small appliances, and more. Use stylish glass canisters with bamboo lids like these to organize your pantry essentials.

8. Utility Area

Source: @our_tooting_terrace

Is your utility area a room-of-doom? Take some ideas from these innovative homemakers and turn your under-stairs space into a neat and tidy utility room.

With the correct plumbing and soundproofing, this space will be a pleasure rather than a problem. Store your laundry essentials in plastic bins like these for a coordinated look.

9. Bench

Source: @interior.angle

This is my ultimate vision of a dream me-space – a cozy retreat to unwind and recharge after a long day. And, who would’ve thought it could be built under the stairs?

Install a fitted bench with a plush padded seat, add luxurious throw pillows like these, grab your coffee and a book, and you are set!

10. Coat Storage

Source: @huxlondon

Awesome is my word for this idea!

Get your bulky coats and jackets out of the entranceway and into a stylish dedicated coat storage area under the stairs.

This is such a genius way to make the most of overlooked space. And that lighting – how cool is it? I absolutely need this in my life!

11. Hat Storage

Source: @inlineorganizing

Hats and caps are notoriously tricky to store. In my house, they take up space, refuse to stack neatly, and constantly end up on the floor.

Get your hats and caps under control with a fabulous under-stairs storage area fitted with adhesive wall mounted cap hooks like these, floating shelves for sneakers, and cubby storage for towels.

12. Cubby Storage

Source: @not_so_grim_up_north

Cubby storage is sooooo versatile. You instantly create loads of space that can be open or closed, high or low, functional or decorative.

Look for IKEA units, get cost-effective stackable cube storage like this, or find a dollar store bargain.

This cute setup complements a little girl’s bedroom, offering cubby storage space for clothes and display space for her favorite toys and books.

13. Bootroom Cabinets

Source: @thebarnrenovation

Customized bootroom cabinets have transformed an awkward part of a hallway in this home, providing storage for boots, shoes, coats, and seasonal items.

It’s a smart and functional design that looks attractive and makes the best use of space. How lovely is the little bench, just calling out for you to take off your shoes and relax!

14. Bookshelves

Source: @davidjonesbespoke

If you have a book lover in your home, you know they’re always running out of space for their ever-growing collection of cherished reads.

Using under-stairs space for a bookshelf is a savvy idea. It offers loads of shelves and looks ultra-attractive. Add a cozy swivel wicker chair like this and you’ve created a dreamy reading nook.

15. Open and Closed Cabinets

Source: @huxlondon

This homemaker has gone all out with their creativity, cleverly combining open and closed cabinets under the stairs.

Use the open cabinets for colorful books and ornaments, and hide the less attractive essentials inside the closed cabinets.

How awesome are the playful Muuto Dots wood handles? You can create a similar mod look with round wooden handles like these decorated in colors of your choice.

16. Display Shelves

Source: @homestratosphere

Don’t let your treasured collection of memorabilia gather dust in a drawer! Under-stairs space is perfect for installing display shelves to showcase your special ornaments and artworks.

This upmarket design certainly adds a touch of class and elegance to the home.

17. Storage Boxes

Source: thornior.com

Here’s another fun DIY project for woodwork enthusiasts when you learn how to create a budget-friendly under-stairs storage solution.

The designer repurposed IKEA units, but you can build your own, or find a hidden treasure at the dollar store.

Finish the look with stylish gray fabric storage boxes like this – perfect for holding books, linen, seasonal items, shoes, and anything else that needs to be packed neatly away.

18. Homework Station

Source: grillo-designs.com

Do you struggle to get the kids to do their homework when they’re hidden away in their rooms (probably playing games)?

This innovative idea will make homework an exciting activity!

Creating a dedicated homework station under the stairs not only makes use of wasted space but also adds a cool and inspiring vibe to the area.

19. Reading Nook

Source: melaniejadedesign.com

Calling book lovers! You don’t need to go away for a weekend to get me-time for reading. Setting up a cozy reading nook under the stairs creates a special space to escape, unwind, and recharge.

You need:

– Floating shelves

– A luxurious chair and matching ottoman like this

– A cup of your favorite coffee blend

– Books!

20. Sliding Barn Door Pantry

Source: thediymommy.com

Enhance your rustic indoor decor theme with a sliding barn door.

Christina from The DIY Mommy has cleverly repurposed an old door to create a hidden storage area under the stairs. Super cool!

21. Wine Rack

Source: makewoodgood.co.uk

Are you a wine connoisseur struggling to find space for your treasured vintages?

Transform your under-stairs nook into a chic wine cellar that’s both practical and stunning, a true showstopper when guests come over!

I’m lovin’ the rustic look of the woven baskets and wooden crates.

22. Sports Equipment Storage

Source: clevercloset.co.uk

If I don’t spend time organizing the family’s sports gear, I find I’m living on a sports field in my own home, surrounded by balls, bats, rackets, boots, hockey sticks, and golf bags.

This brilliant solution saved the day, turning my under-stairs area into a tidy storage zone that keeps all the equipment safe, organized, and completely out of sight.

23. Dog Nook