Storge Problem? Use Your Spandrel

If you are short on storage space in your home, and let's face it, who isn't, you might take a second look at the triangular-shaped crawlspace under your stairs. This often-overlooked space actually has a name — the spandrel. Depending on the size of your spandrel, drawers, shelves or cabinets can be built in to provide that much-needed space.

Forgotten places for storage

• Usually located near the entryway to your house, the staircase is a busy place and perfect for becoming a repository for clutter. Think about how many hats, gloves, shoes, backpacks, purses and other everyday items are in your foyer. This mound of clutter is the first thing to greet you and your visitors when entering the house. Maybe messy isn't the first impression you want to make. All these items can be stowed conveniently away under the stairs when they are fitted out with concealed drawers or shelves. 

• If you are looking to carve out space for a home office, a place to study or a spot to do crafts, the spandrel may be just the place. Outfitted with a work surface and storage shelves attached to the wall, this space is ready-made for an office. Add a comfortable chair and you're all set! One note: The overhead noise from people walking up and down the stairs may be an issue if you need absolute quiet.

• A bench installed in a spandrel makes it a handy place to take off and put on your shoes. Drawers should be included below the bench to provide maximum storage space. 

• On a rainy day, what could be cozier than having a playhouse under the stairs? This could be used year-round no matter what the weather is outside. A similar idea is to use the space for family pets. An out-of-the-way doghouse to contain your pet when you are not home could go here.

• This under-stairs space could be an interesting spot to build an open bar with shelves for glassware and liquor bottles and a countertop for assembling drinks for guests. Given how close it is to the entryway, this works well to welcome guests with a drink almost as soon as they arrive.

• A hidden pantry could be a valuable use for the space, especially if it is close to the kitchen. Line the walls with shelves and drawers to hold dry goods, paper goods and/or cookware. This is a useful place for housing special-occasion fine china, crystal or silverware. Seasonal holiday decorations can be stored here as well.

• Create a place to retreat to with a book nook. Mount shelves for storing books and provide seating to complete the small yet cozy room. To make this work even better, make sure there is an electrical outlet in the area for good lighting. If there isn't, a portable battery-powered  lamp will do the trick.

The practical possibilities for using your under-stairs space are almost endless. You are only limited by your imagination, space and budget. Contact us for more ideas on creating more storage and living spaces in your home