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.
Why are mudrooms so popular? We all know the scenario: that once-beautiful foyer quickly becomes a catch-all for shoes, backpacks, coats, and more, creating clutter and chaos. Everyone wants to keep their home organized and visually appealing, but life can get messy. That’s where the mudroom comes in.
Windows are one of the most essential elements in any home—yet they’re often the most overlooked. Gone are the days when windows served a purely functional role. Today, they do so much more than provide natural light and fresh air—they enhance energy efficiency, connect us to the outdoors, and contribute significantly to a room’s overall design and mood.
Whether open or closed, windows allow us to enjoy nature from the comfort of home. But their impact doesn’t stop there. With the right window treatments, you can transform the feel of a space, improve insulation, increase privacy, and even boost the value of your home.
In this blog, we’ll explore what window treatments are, the various styles available, and how they can bring both beauty and benefits to your living space—for you, your family, and your home.
Walker WoodworkingWithout a doubt, the most significant statement piece in a bathroom is the vanity, as it is usually the first thing the eye sees. Floating vanities have become increasingly popular, particularly with minimalist, clean, and modern aesthetics. This blog will explore what they are, what designs complement floating vanities best, and the benefits this style can bring to your bathroom.
Granite, Quartz, Marble, or Quartzite?
These are the top contenders when it comes to selecting the perfect countertop material for your kitchen or bathroom. Each one brings its own strengths, aesthetic appeal, and practical considerations—making the decision both exciting and a bit overwhelming.
Granite is a natural stone known for its durability and unique, one-of-a-kind patterns. Quartz, on the other hand, is an engineered surface that offers a wide range of color options and is prized for its low-maintenance qualities. Marble stands out for its timeless elegance and heat resistance, though it requires more upkeep. Quartzite closely resembles marble in appearance but offers greater durability and easier maintenance.
When making your selection, it’s important to consider factors such as heat and stain resistance, ease of maintenance, and of course, budget. Below, we break down the key differences, pros, and cons of each material to help you determine which surface best suits your lifestyle, design vision, and practical needs.
The kitchen pantry is often one of the most underutilized yet high-potential spaces in the home. While it can easily become a catch-all for clutter, a well-designed pantry is a true hidden gem—capable of transforming the functionality of your kitchen. From storing oversized serving pieces to housing everyday essentials, a thoughtfully planned pantry helps keep countertops clear and mealtime prep more efficient.
Whether you have a compact pull-out pantry, a spacious walk-in, or a dedicated butler’s pantry, innovative organization is key. A well-designed pantry not only maximizes storage but also supports the flow of your kitchen. Below, we’re sharing a few of our favorite design ideas and practical tips to help you better utilize your pantry space—and maybe even inspire your next kitchen upgrade.
Greenbrook Design 