One of the best ways to use the wasted space underneath a staircase is to create storage. If you are using the stairs to access a basement or upper level of a home, you can create cubbies or shelves to store items like blankets, pillows, linens, books, or toys.
You can also consider making a small desk or craft area beneath the stairs to create a workspace. If you want to add a cozy spot to curl up and read, you can install a window seat with drawers below.
You can also use this space as a mini-mudroom to store coats, shoes, umbrellas, and pet essentials. If you have pets, you can create a cozy cat or dog bedroom beneath the stairs. Lastly, to stylishly utilize this space, you can install a wine shelf for an added entertainment area.
How do I decorate the area under my stairs?
When decorating the area under your stairs, the possibilities are seemingly endless. Depending on the layout of your space and the amount of square footage available, you can use the area for storage, a workspace or even create a fun hangout zone or reading nook.
To give the area a finished look, you can use stylish furniture, décor and even art pieces.
For storage, you can hang shelves, add baskets, or use built-in cabinets or drawers. This is a great way to store items that you don’t use on a regular basis and help to keep the area clutter free. If you opt for an open storage solution, you can dress it up with baskets, boxes and bins in bold colors and fun designs.
If the area is large enough, you can consider turning it into a workspace or office. If so, you can opt for a desk and comfortable chair, along with some shelving and storage, and provide great lighting to enhance the space.
If you’d prefer to make a cozy hangout zone, consider adding a colorful rug, some comfy pillows, and a couple of chairs. You can also transform the area into a fun reading nook with a beanbag chair, a comfortable armchair and a bookshelf.
Overall, when it comes to decorating the area under your stairs, the key is to get creative and tailor the space to fit your lifestyle. With a few extra touches and a bit of elbow grease, you can make it a highly enjoyable, functional area.
How do you maximize under stairs storage?
Maximizing under stairs storage is an excellent way to use an otherwise unused space and can help to streamline the look of your home. Here are some tips for getting the most out of this area:
1. Make use of shelving. Shelving is a great way to store items neatly and can help to make the most of your limited space. Place lighter items at the top and heavier ones at the bottom.
2. Install pull-out drawers. Customized pull-out drawers can make it easier to access items and can hold a variety of items that could otherwise spend most of the year collecting dust in the far reaches of your home.
3. Invest in a good shoe rack. You can make use of the area beneath the stairs for storing shoes and keeping them organized.
4. Utilize hanging baskets or racks. This can provide extra space for storing items and can help to keep your entryway clutter-free.
5. Choose smart lighting. Installing lighting in the area can help to create a more inviting space.
Finally, when maximizing under stairs storage, it’s important to be mindful of safety. Check with a contractor if any major structural changes are needed to ensure the space is safe and secure.
What is the space under the stairs called?
The space under the stairs is often referred to as the “under stair area” or “under stair storage”. This area is often utilized to store items such as pantry items, cleaning supplies, and other miscellaneous items.
If the area is large enough, it can even be used to create a small office space or a cozy reading nook. Some people even use this area as a pet-friendly space by providing their pet with a comfortable bed and toys to play with.
In any case, the space under the stairs is an often-utilized space that can bring convenience and extra storage.
Is toilet good under stairs?
Whether or not having a toilet under the stairs is a good idea depends on several factors, including space constraints, budget, and design preferences. On one hand, having a toilet under stairs can be a great space-saver and provide some additional privacy.
It can also add an interesting design element to the overall space. On the other hand, there are plenty of extra considerations that come along with having a toilet under the stairs. There may be limited space, resulting in a cramped area with limited moveability.
Also, the stairs can block natural light, ventilation, and plumbing, making it difficult to properly care for the toilet and keeping it clean. In addition, there may be structural issues such as water seepage that could potentially compromise the safety of the overall space.
Ultimately, it is up to the homeowner to weigh their personal preferences and budget in order to determine if a toilet under the stairs is the right choice for their home.
What is a stair spandrel?
A stair spandrel is a structural element supporting the space between the floor and the stairs in a building. It is commonly found in multi-level buildings and typically consists of two vertical supports interconnected by horizontal trusses.
Stair spandrels are used to increase the stability and strength of the staircase, allowing it to support a heavy load. These components can be constructed from a variety of materials including steel, timber, concrete, and masonry.
Depending on the building’s design, stair spandrels may also feature decorative architectural details.
Stair spandrels are essential elements of any structure with multiple levels and can serve both a functional and aesthetic purpose in a building’s design. Architects often use them to create a seamless transition between levels and to provide additional structural support for staircases.
By correctly reviewing the safety and security of a building before installing a stair spandrel, designers can ensure their buildings meet all industry standards.
What is a second floor landing called?
A second floor landing is sometimes referred to as a mezzanine, or the “mezz”. A second floor landing is a platform or landing in the middle of a staircase or located off a hallway or open area near the stairs.
It is usually found in multi-level homes or buildings, and designed to give access or transition from one flight of stairs to another. It is usually wide enough to accommodate furniture such as couches, chairs or tables, so that it could serve as a transitional space or seating area.
Some second floor landings are more elaborate and can be used as a reading nook, an area for exercising, a mini-library or a home office.
Why do stairs have nosings?
Stairs have nosings because they provide structural support, making them safer to walk on, while also increasing traction to reduce the risk of slipping or falling. Nosings also prevent stair edges from chipping or becoming worn over time.
Additionally, the nosing creates an aesthetically pleasing edge, helping to bring the stairs in line with the overall design of the space. The nosing also helps to complete the transition from one step to the next, making the staircase look more finished.
Finally, nosings provide extra floor space before the first step, which is a valuable safety feature as it allows room for safe foot placement when climbing or descending the stairs.
What can I use instead of stair nose?
The most popular alternative are wooden risers, or separate pieces of wood that run up against the ends of each step. These can be stained or painted to match the rest of the stairs, and also provide a protective overhang at the edge of the stairs.
Another option is to install laminate flooring on the stairs, which can provide a cost-effective and attractive solution. Other alternatives include adding cove or baseboard molding, installing mini-nosing strips between each step, or simply sanding the existing hardwood to create a smooth transition.
Whichever approach you choose, it’s important to make sure the stairs are safe by using non-slip materials and making sure that each step is well supported.
Are stair nosings a legal requirement?
Yes, stair nosings are a legal requirement in certain circumstances. Per the Building Code of Australia, the National Construction Code (NCC), and the relevant state or territory regulations, a stair nosing is required on any step, stairway, or ramp with a vertical rise greater than 100mm.
The purpose of stair nosings is to provide a visual cue to alert people that they are in an area where they should take extra care and use caution. Stair nosings also provide a more comfortable surface and a slip-resistant tread in wet or dry conditions.
Without stair nosings, stairs can become unforgivingly slippery and dangerous, creating obvious hazards and elevated risk of slips and falls.
What can I do with a small space under stairs?
You can do a lot with a small space under stairs:
1. Convert it into a home office. This is an ideal option if you don’t have access to a spare room and need a dedicated work area. You can customize the shelves and drawers to organize office supplies and to maximize the storage space.
If you want to make the area look less cramped, you can add a pop of color to the shelves and drawers.
2. Make it into a reading corner or library. If you like to read or want to encourage your children to do so, then this area can be turned into a cozy reading corner. Get creative with your shelving and choose bookshelves that will fit in with the existing décor.
3. Create a mini mudroom. If you need a place to organize your and your family’s belongings, this could be the perfect spot. Alternately, you can use the space to store sports items, such as golf and hiking gear, or garden tools and supplies.
4. Turn it into a playroom. This is the perfect spot to store toys, games and puzzles. You can add a small cushion to turn the area into a comfortable play area. If the space is large enough, you can also add a small table, chairs and floor cushions for an all-in-one play area.
5. Transform it into a wine cellar. Small spaces can be great for displaying and storing wines. Just add a few racks, perhaps some built-in shelving, and you’re ready to go. This can be a great way to display your collection while taking up minimal space.
6. Utilize it as a storage space. Shelves and cabinets can be used to store items such as bathroom products, linens, small items and cleaning supplies. A shoe rack or some hooks can also be installed for a small entry area or coat closet.