Chase away that monster under the stairs and create a useable space
(Mar. 30, 2022) — You remodeled your kitchen last year, the kids’ bath just this past summer and your primary bathroom two years ago.
And then you tore apart your laundry room, which entailed stacking your washer and dryer and adding basic storage.
You’ve painted the inside and outside of your home, and landscaping has been checked off the list for several years. The roof is in good standing, and your furniture is looking good.
My goodness, you’ve been busy.
But even with all of these amazing projects checked off the to-do list, you have the designer blues and desperately need a design project. But where will you find a space to remodel when it appears that your house may be … gasp … done?
Overlooked space
Look no further than that untouched, framed-in void that you probably never ever think about: the space underneath your stairwell.
This secret space has been waiting patiently while the other spaces received a facelift. And now it’s time to have a little decorative, and functional, design fun.
The living spaces we remodel often have a very specific purpose, but this area under the stairwell may be just a fun free space to redesign. It could also enhance an existing living space.
Where the stairwell is located will determine its reimagined design. For example, when a stairwell is part of your entry, consider turning this space into a closet that fits your storage needs. Another entry-minded design solution is a built-in bench that has shoe storage underneath the seat, decorative pillows and a bench cushion, and perhaps a mirror or art, or even wallpaper on the inside walls. This creates a great entry focal point as well as a functional space as you come and go.
Functional storage
When your stairwell is connected to the family room or living room, that empty space would be a fantastic place for a bookcase. Depending on the size of your stairwell, you could include a reading cubby with pillows and even a perfectly lit sconce or two. It might also be a functional storage space for games and toys, audio and server equipment, the utility box for an alarm system or anything else that needs to be close at hand but decoratively tucked away.
When the stairwell is connected to a kitchen, that unused space could be turned into banquette seating, a small home office or even built out to accommodate a bed for our furry friends.
The space could also be the perfect destination for wine storage or a home bar. Consider a temperature-controlled wine cellar, either fabricated with traditional cabinetry or enclosed with glass. If the size is right, you could have a counter with beverage coolers underneath and glass storage above, and possibly even pull water for an ice maker or small bar sink.
So, kick out that monster that lives under your stairwell – the kids will thank you – and redesign the open space into something that could be a decorative focal point or a functional area that adds value to an existing living space.
Contact Jennifer Leischer with questions, comments and suggestions at jenna@j-designs.com.
Jennifer Leischer
Jennifer Leischer is the owner of J. Designs Interior Design based in Clayton, CA. Combining a public relations degree from California State University, Chico, with further studies in design and interior architecture at the University of California, Berkeley, Jennifer began her career as an interior designer in 1998, working for various firms in San Francisco and Orinda, and Denver, Colorado. She describes every designing moment, throughout her career, as a wonderful tutorial about the importance of relationships, open communication, and getting down to the basics of functional, yet stylish, living spaces.