15 Ways to Turn an Unused Corner Into Functional Space

Nesting is immensely satisfying, and almost nothing beats the feeling of spreading out and settling into a once-anonymous abode in a way that makes it feels like yours and yours alone. The glorious exception? Identifying nips and tucks that can tailor it to your evolving needs in even more satisfying ways. Draw inspiration from these next-level treatments of underdeveloped areas, once-wasted spaces and challenging crannies, then reconsider your own rooms and keep that square footage on its toes.

Floor-to-ceiling bookshelves on every wall are great, but have you tried whisking a few away and replacing them with a stealthy task area? A zone like this one is especially useful in homes that boast built-ins galore but lack open floor plans; with a workspace in, say, the living room, you can tackle your to-do list and still feel like part of the mix.

Custom-built around a finished log to create a one-of-a-kind set of shelves for books and curious, this build complements the mural beside it without gobbling up serious wall space. Consider a corner installation like this one to emphasize a space’s height and provide maximum functionality in close quarters.

Might we suggest building an entryway-adjacent workspace beneath stairs, as in this ultrafunctional foyer? Though this area is just 6’2” wide and 3’5” deep, a U-shaped floating work surface and upper shelves provide ample room for supplies, a desk chair and a small filing cabinet. Three walls make the space feel relatively secluded, but its location on the first floor is convenient for occasional check-ins.

Human-sized retreats nestle beautifully beneath staircases as well, mind you. In this whimsical home, a diminutive door at left leads to a secret playroom beneath the lowest part of the stairs; a wood-paneled, custom-cushioned space beside it beckons bookworms in high style. Make a reading area like this one feel extra-cozy by installing a sconce rather than embedding lights in the ceiling, then leave the storage area beneath the bench open to accommodate favorite titles.

A truly massive under-the-stairway-and-into-the-foyer zone, in turn, can function as a proper sitting area and an impromptu office. We’d like to zero in on the chic shelving built into the wall adjoining both spaces, though, as it demonstrates a principle that comes into play throughout kooky-space conversional: If adding shelves is a possibility, you should almost always go for it. Why, that sitting area is practically a study now!

The narrow space between these two closets could have displayed tasteful tchotchkes and concealed spare linens, but where’s the fun in that? Upgraded with gleaming, Art Deco-inspired wallpaper that complements its lower cabinet and stained floating shelves, this itty-bitty, budget-friendly entertaining space enlivens an otherwise-functional wall like a fanciful cocktail garnish.

While the highest and best use of a space depends heavily on the people using it, it’s hard to imagine topping the Champagne-serving station built beneath this home’s staircase. (If your crew’s more likely to clamor for string cheese and veggies, an installation like this one can serve as a self-service healthy snack station for the post-school, pre-dinner crowd.)

A deep, wide countertop like this one is fabulous for sorting and folding linens and clothing, but why should that workspace — and its natural light and view — go to waste when it isn’t laundry day? Treat yourself to a stylish, supportive desk chair and task lighting to upgrade the utility room to an ad hoc home office. (Pro tip: Dedicate a drawer or two to office supplies so you can whisk them away when you aren’t paying bills or checking email.)

If your back staircase creates a nook like this one (by Nashville’s The Wills Company), in turn, might we suggest adding appliances that allow you to launder all-weather gear and bedraggled uniforms ASAP? While hidden storage, hanging space and the worktop itself in this arrangement are admittedly minimal, the way they tackle dirty laundry on the spot is mighty.

When your funky bonus space has pet-friendly proportions, in turn, a bit of wallpaper and paint can turn an aimless nook into the family dog or cat’s new favorite spot. Add coziness and visual interest by papering the space with a cheery print, creating contrast with paint that will complement your larger room’s decor and adding softness with cushions and faux shearling.

Keep precious floor space clear in the nursery by building a double-duty dresser and changing table into a small closet. A less-is-more adaptation like this one is relatively simple to transition as your new addition’s needs change: The hanging rod and upper shelves are usable now and will come in handy in the future, and the dresser without its changing pad will eventually serve as counter space.

This sweet little alcove provides hidden storage at ground level and the dreamy atmosphere of a traditional window seat, thanks to its cheery custom upholstery and garden stool. Installations like this one are typically reserved for larger, lower windows, but why should they have all the fun? Reconsider a narrower nook that might typically house a dresser or end table, then create a memorable perch instead.

Styled to complement the circus-themed mural on the wall beside it, this closet bar boasts practical floating cabinetry and shelves plus tassels and trim that match the larger room’s passementerie. When converting a closet to a look-at-me feature like this one, fortune favors the bold: Choose larger-than-life accessories and eye-catching barware that celebrate the feature’s new function at top volume. You’ve made the most of an otherwise-awkward space; make sure everyone knows about it.

Make the most of spare floor space in a child’s room by creating a crawl-in nook like this one. Outfitted with a long cushion that functions as floor-to-ceiling upholstery, the unique cylindrical shape is irresistible to little bookworms.