Under the Stairs – It doesn’t have to be boring

Who says the space under your stairs has to be a gloomy, dark cupboard that’s impossible to access without emptying everything first? In most homes, that under-stair area could—and should—work much harder for you. After all, even Harry Potter started out living under the stairs!

No Space Is Too Awkward

At DTQ Designs, we believe that clever joinery can transform your home. The right design makes every space functional, organised, and accessible, without sacrificing style. Prefer a minimalist look? You can still install sleek doors to conceal storage while enjoying a clutter-free, visually appealing home. Imagine no more digging through dark cupboards or lofts to find what you need.

Smart Under-Stairs Storage Ideas

Here are some clever ways homeowners are making the most of that often-overlooked space:

• Built-in Shelving for Books or Vinyl Records: A modern staircase design by ACRE Creative shows how under-stairs shelving can be stylish and functional, perfect for book lovers or music collectors.

• Pull-Out Drawers and Cabinets: Maximise storage while keeping items hidden but easily accessible.

• Home Office Nooks: Transform the space into a compact desk area with built-in storage.

• Coat and Shoe Storage: Keep your entryway tidy with organised racks, hooks, and drawers.

• Mini Bar or Display Cabinets: Make your staircase a showpiece with a personalised bar or display area.

Transform Your Home with Thoughtful Joinery

Under-stairs storage doesn’t have to be an afterthought. With smart design, every inch of your home can be functional, stylish, and tailored to your lifestyle. At DTQ Designs, we specialize in creating solutions that make your home work better for you.

Image Credit Acre Creative

How about creating a library area or reading nook? You could even create storage drawers under the seating area for extra storage. Perhaps for shoes, etc.

Image via Pinterest

What better way for a family to get the most of that small space under the stairs than with pull out drawers where you can neatly hide away all the shoes, hats, scarves, etc. that tend to accumulate in a hallway. You could even give each family member a drawer. Wouldn’t that be nice?

Image via Pinterest

Why not put a bar under the stairs if you are short on space? Particularly if your stairs are in a lounge area. If you have a long narrow lounge with stairs at the end this is super way of breaking up the space.

Image via Pinterest

Every house needs a study but some houses simply don’t appear to have the space. With the current trend for open-plan living one option is to open up the space under your stairs and use it as a work space. With a bit of clever design and bespoke joinery you can almost create another room.

Contemporary Home Office by Toronto Photographers Leslie Goodwin Photography

If you don't have a downstairs toilet then this is the perfect space when there is no other alternative and this is something that can really add value to your home.

Image credit: Austin Architect

We love this clever wine storage installation from Wineware for the house that has everything (except a wine cellar).

Image credit Wineware

And don’t forget about the dog!

Image via Pinterest

With clever ideas and some well-placed financial investment you can turn your home into something that works for you on every level.

If you'd like us to help you redesign this space in your home please contact us via our website.