5 Ways to Use a Ladder Shelf

With some clever styling tricks, this storage piece can move from room to room. Our foundation item: Walnut five-tier ladder shelf, $91, overstock.com

A leaning ladder shelf becomes a smart entry addition when set beside a bench for putting on shoes and a rack for hanging hats, scarves, and umbrellas. Screw cup hooks into the underside of a shelf to make a handy spot for house and car keys. Fill the lower shelves with bins and baskets to store pet toys and on-the-go sports gear. Our outgoing mail organizer is actually a toast rack!

Put the shelf against a kitchen wall and it becomes an extra pantry area. Vinyl shelf liners protect the wood from scratches and are easy to wipe down. Add a plate rack for storing cutting boards and a picnic basket to hold extra dish towels, napkins, and place mats. Hot-glue clothespins to the edge and clip recipes you want to try.

Leaning beside a sofa, a ladder shelf makes a great stand-in for an end table. Rogue remotes have a place to live on a tray within arm’s reach, and a big basket stores throws. Fill the rest of the shelves with vases, frames, and your favorite knickknacks. Angle a lamp over the sofa. The Studio Designs retro lamp in brushed steel ($50, hayneedle.com) has a built-in clamp.

Pedestal sinks are pretty but lack precious storage space. Enter the ladder shelf to hold toiletries, a magnifying mirror, and stacks of towels. For a cute styling trick, fill a pail with rolled-up washcloths. Mount a hook on the side—it’s the perfect place for a hand towel.