That awkward space under the stairs can be way more than a catch-all for random clutter. With the right cupboard setup, it turns into hidden, hard-working storage that makes your whole home feel calmer.
Family Command Cupboard
I set up an under stairs cupboard as a command center with charging, mail sorting, and a little shelf for keys, and my daily routine got so much smoother. Tucking it behind cupboard doors keeps the visual clutter out of sight, which I really need in small spaces.
Some ideas to consider:
- Woven Storage Baskets: Organize clutter with natural warmth using versatile woven baskets, perfect for sorting items on shelves quickly.
- Stackable Desktop Organizer: Keep mail and documents tidy with compact drawer units that fit neatly inside your cabinet shelves.
- Charging Station Dock: Streamline your devices in one hidden spot with a multi-port charging station for phones and tablets.
Tall Pull-Out Pantry Cupboard
I once converted an under stairs cupboard into a pull-out pantry and it instantly cleared my counters because all the dry goods finally had a home. The trick that worked for me was using vertical storage with slim shelves so nothing gets lost.
A few things you might like:
- Slim Slide-Out Pantry Unit: Maximize narrow gaps with a rolling pantry cart designed to fit tight spaces and organize efficiently.
- Glass Food Storage Jars: Store dry goods beautifully in airtight glass jars that keep ingredients fresh and visible on shelves.
- Woven Storage Basket: Add texture and hide clutter with a sturdy wicker basket, perfect for floor-level household storage.
Coat and Shoe Cupboard Drop Zone
When my entryway was basically a postage stamp, I built an under stairs coat cupboard with a shoe zone at the bottom, and it stopped the hallway pileups. I always add hooks and cubbies inside the doors because that’s where the daily chaos lives.
A few choices to try:
- Modern Double Coat Hooks: Install these durable hooks inside your cupboard or alcove to instantly organize jackets, bags, and scarves.
- Woven Storage Baskets: Use these textured baskets to hide clutter in open cubbies while adding warmth and style to your shelves.
- Upholstered Bench Cushion: Add comfort to your drop zone seating area with a custom-fitting cushion that invites you to sit.
Linen Cupboard With Stacked Shelves
In my last studio, I turned the under stairs cupboard into a linen closet and finally had a place for towels and spare bedding. I learned to use stacked shelf zones (top for guest stuff, middle for everyday, bottom for bulky blankets) so it stays tidy.
Give these a look:
- Woven Seagrass Storage Basket: Keep smaller items or accessories organized and hidden away on high shelves for a clutter-free, natural aesthetic.
- Round Wicker Basket: Utilize floor space effectively with a sturdy round basket perfect for storing bulky items or laundry.
- Plush Cotton Bath Towel Set: Refresh your linen closet with soft, fluffy white towels that look elegant when stacked on open shelves.
Built-In Shoe Shelves Behind a Door
I’m a big fan of under stairs shoe storage hidden behind a simple cupboard door because it makes a small home feel instantly more “grown up.” Angled or stepped shoe shelving worked best for me since it matches the stair slope.
Items that may come in handy:
- Adjustable Shelf Brackets & tracks: Customize your under-stairs space perfectly with adjustable shelving tracks that accommodate varying heights for boots and sneakers.
- White Melamine Shelf Boards: Create a clean, built-in look using sturdy white shelves that are easy to cut and wipe clean.
- Woven Storage Baskets: Utilize the top shelf for accessories by adding stylish woven baskets to hide gloves, scarves, or shoe polish.
Mini Library Cupboard With Adjustable Shelves
I’ve styled an under stairs cupboard into a book storage wall and it became the coziest “built-in” look without needing extra furniture. Adjustable stair-step shelving is what made it feel intentional instead of crammed.
Might be a good match:
- DIY Adjustable Shelving Tracks: Create a fully customizable layout for your books by installing sturdy, adjustable tracks directly into your nook.
- Woven Storage Baskets: Minimize visual clutter on lower shelves by tucking away loose items in these textured, natural woven baskets.
- Small Battery-Operated Table Lamps: Add a warm glow to dark shelf corners without worrying about cords by placing small accent lamps.
Toy Cupboard With Labeled Bins
For clients (and my own niece’s visits), an under stairs toy cupboard with simple bins is a lifesaver because cleanup takes minutes. I like doing low, kid-reachable storage so the system actually gets used.
Useful items to consider:
- Large Canvas Storage Bins: Keep toys hidden and organized with these spacious bins that easily slide onto shelves for quick cleanups.
- Woven Seagrass Belly Basket: Add texture and flexible storage for soft toys or blankets with this stylish, easily accessible woven basket.
- Bin Clip Label Holders: Define exactly where toys belong using these clips that attach firmly to various thick storage bins.
Sports and Outdoor Gear Cupboard
I turned an under stairs cupboard into sports gear storage once and it kept helmets, balls, and workout stuff from migrating around the apartment. Using deep baskets on the bottom shelf is what stopped the tumbleweed effect.
You might give these a try:
- Large Woven Storage Basket: Corral yoga mats and larger equipment easily with a spacious, sturdy basket to keep floors clutter-free.
- Medium Teal Fabric Bin: Organize loose items like towels or smaller gear on shelves using structured fabric bins for neat storage.
- Small Round Rope Basket: Store smaller miscellaneous accessories on upper shelves with compact, stylish baskets that add texture to your space.
Board Game and Puzzle Cupboard
I keep a whole under stairs cupboard for board game storage because the boxes are awkward everywhere else. I like adding file-style dividers so games stand upright and don’t avalanche when you grab one.
Maybe worth checking out:
- Magazine File Holders: Store slender game boxes or puzzles vertically to keep shelves organized and prevent stacks from toppling over.
- Woven Storage Baskets: Use these aesthetic bins to corral loose game pieces, card decks, or smaller items neatly on shelves.
- Adjustable Shelf Dividers: Separate your board games into distinct sections to help maintain upright stability and easy access.
