3 Clever Ways to Use an Awkward Corner

Wish you could add an extra room to your home or apartment? With an empty corner and a little creativity, you can. Find out how to transform this often-overlooked space into a home office, a reading nook or a mini mudroom.

An unused corner is the perfect place to create a small desk area. Whether it’s for you to work from home or check email, or for your kids to create art or do their homework, all you need is a few simple pieces for a stylish and efficient mini office.

Start by adding a few versatile furniture pieces — a simple white Parsons desk and a neutral chair will look great in just about any room. A patterned rug adds interest, texture and style to the space. Hang shelves on the wall above the desk to create a display area and extra storage. Be sure to consider lighting when deciding where to place the shelves — we hung ours slightly off center to leave room for a lamp.

Wall shelves are available in a variety of styles and finishes; choose ones that fit your space and design style. A set of two or three matching shelves will help fill the wall and create plenty of storage and display space.

Brighten up the corner by placing a stylish lamp on the desk. Look for something that won’t take up too much space on the desktop to allow for ample workspace.

Style your desk and shelves with a variety of decorative and functional items. Plants and greenery help soften any space, while a favorite framed photo or piece of art adds a personal touch.

A home office doesn’t have to be all business — create interest with a fun object, like this textured pineapple. On the more functional side, a clock is a great addition to any workspace for keeping track of time.

Be sure to set up easy access to desk necessities like a stapler, pens, pencils and scissors. A stylish tray and matching pencil cup can wrangle these items.

No more working from the sofa or the bed — with this stylish corner office, you’ll be way more productive.

We all need to relax and unwind more often. Create a serene space in that awkward corner you just don’t know what to do with. This spot is perfect for curling up with that new novel you’ve been wanted to read, or sipping your morning coffee while catching up on current events.

Start with a cute and comfortable chair, plus a freestanding bookcase or wall-mounted shelves to house books, magazines and decorative accessories.

A small side table gives you a spot to set your beverage or book down. Add an ottoman and a plush pillow so you can put your feet up and thoroughly enjoy your new cozy corner.

Every book nook needs a stash of books and magazines so you can grab one on a whim to read. You never know when you’ll find a few minutes to spare to enjoy this space. Work from home? To refresh, take a break from your desk a couple times a day and visit your cozy corner.

It’s hard to read without proper lighting, so find a stylish lamp to bring light to your corner. A space-saving floor lamp is easy to position where you need it, and it won’t take up room on your side table.

Adding uplifting artwork to your space is always a great idea, especially for this relaxing corner book nook. It’s a beautiful place to clear your mind and get inspired.

We believe in surrounding yourself with objects that inspire you. Fill your bookshelves with items that make you happy and bring back wonderful memories. A photograph, a scented candle and your all-time favorite reads are great examples.

Wouldn’t you love to start your morning or take a midday break in this cheerful spot?

If you dream of designing an uber-organized mudroom but just don’t have the space, turn your awkward corner into a mini drop-zone near your entryway. With a few easy-to-find items, you’ll have a functional and pretty space to greet you at the door.

Start with a rug to define the space and to corral shoes. A comfy little bench is the perfect spot to put on and take off footwear. You’ll definitely need a row of hooks to hang jackets, hats and bags.

Add a pretty pillow to your bench for comfort and style.

Find a statement piece of art that will greet you when you get home. Hello! A large, bold print is the way to go. Bring life to the corner by adding a potted plant like a fiddle leaf fig.

Hang your most-worn jackets, hats and bags on the hooks so you can easily grab them before you leave home.