Design Notes
When you think of creating a unique space or finding extra storage, does your mind go to your stairs? Probably not, but there is so much that can be done with this unique space. Let’s explore what you can do with your staircase to get that little something extra you have been looking for.
Kids Reading Nook
The stairs are a perfect solution for kids who love to read but always struggle to find a little spot just for them. They are just the right size for them and give them a little space where they can safely have an adventure within their book. Add some special task lighting and a comfy seat; they might not stir for hours.
Pet Kennel
Stairs offer a perfect place to create a little kennel for pets. It is usually near the front door, within sight of you, which is very important and roomy. Lining the floor with a soft pet bed and their favorite toys will ensure your pets never feel neglected.
Bookshelf
Once a reader, always a reader, but sometimes it can be hard to know where to put your books, especially the ones that come with a beautiful cover worthy of displaying. What better way to show them off to your friends than by placing them on your staircase? Not only are they within easy reach, but they also make a fantastic statement on your wall.
Playroom
The littles are always asking you for a special spot in the house just for them. Why not give them one under the stairs? It is a perfect size, and adding a little pop of color and a few baskets for their toys will entertain them for hours.
Mudroom
We all need that area in the house where we can simply drop our stuff from the office. Sometimes there is not enough room for a full mudroom, but your staircase can provide just enough space to hold shoes, a backpack, and a briefcase. Consider adding a few built-ins paired with some decorative hooks to create a little space for those essential items. Mornings always run smoother when there is a designated pick-up point.
Extra Storage
Adding special drawers and cabinets can turn a simple staircase into the perfect hiding spot for all those extras you need only a few times a year. You can easily store holiday decorations, extra clothes, or children’s sports equipment. The possibilities are endless, and the convenience is perfect. View this historic project where we utilized the stairs for additional kitchen cabinet space.
Additional Pantry Space
While we all love our kitchens, sometimes there is not enough space to store all our food items. The staircase can provide the perfect overflow pantry. Consider adding this to store the dry and canned goods from your kitchen, or even some of the pots and pans you don’t use regularly.
Coat Closet
When guests come for a visit, finding a spot for their coats can be a challenge, let alone knowing where to hang our own. The staircase is an excellent spot for a coat closet since it is near the front and easy for guests to grab their coats when leaving, or yours, for that matter.
Wine Room
Many people enjoy coming home and unwinding with a glass of wine, but most of us don’t have a space to store it. That space under the stairs is perfect for a little wine room or even a small wet bar. Who said a wine room had to be large? It must only be big enough to keep some of your absolute favorites on hand.
Mini Office
Do you need to jot down a quick grocery list? Maybe the kids need a little area to do their homework? Have you been looking for the perfect spot to have a charging station? The stairs could be your answer. This little area is perfect for creating a study nook or mini office.
Our very own hometown talent, nationally recognized photographer Randy McNeilly, has earned multiple prestigious awards for his exceptional artwork—proudly on display in the Greenbrook Design showroom.
Will kitchen islands go out of style? The answer is no. The kitchen island is often the focal point in the kitchen and one of the most sought-after features in a kitchen renovation; in fact, it is one of the most versatile areas in the kitchen. Need a place to do some homework? How about a family dinner or brunch? Looking for a surface where you can spread out when cooking? Some extra storage for large pots and mixers would be nice, too. All of this and more can be accomplished with a kitchen island; some might even call it a mini kitchen within the kitchen. This flexible workstation can be created to reflect any style, accommodate any size, and suit any need. Today, we want to answer some common questions about the kitchen island, explore the benefits, and explain why it will never go out of style.
As the COVID-19 pandemic slowly comes to an end, you may be ready to update your home and make a few changes. Perhaps being stuck inside during lockdowns gave you time to identify areas that needed cleaning, upgrading, or other home improvements. If you want to start rebuilding your house but aren’t sure how to get started, see how these tips can help, brought to you courtesy of Greenbrook Design.
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