Smart Stairs: Squeezing Space Out of Your Staircase

If you’re anything like me, you find home design and décor inspiration just about everywhere. It’s a fantastic feeling, I think, to be inspired…but sometimes translating that inspiration into reality can be a challenge.

In this article, you will find a few inspirational photos of how some homeowners have maximized their staircase space (often, this is “dead space” in a home, but it doesn’t have to be!). Then, these over-the-top-awesome photos will be followed by some other (also great) ideas of how average people with average budgets and home/building constraints might translate the space-saving ideas on a smaller, perhaps more manageable scale. But still with style. I like to call this “Dreamy Inspiration vs. Real Implementation.”

Dreamy Inspiration 1:

Those under-staircase angled roofs have, since the dawn of time (or, at least, the dawn of staircases) been a challenge to work with, but isn’t this idea extraordinary? Create shelves on the opposite side of each stair step, and you’ll have yourself 10+ extra storage shelves that require zero real estate! I love how these shelves serve as an almost library-esque backdrop to this reading nook.
Real Implementation 1:

If your under-stairs area is open but, for whatever reason, constructing built-in step shelves isn’t in the cards, here is an easy (and budget-friendly) alternative. Simply build, or buy, “step” shelves to work under the triangular space. Although this does require some square footage, it’s only taking up awkward and hard-to-style space anyway…and doing it with style and grace.
Dreamy Inspiration 2:

Built-in drawers under the stairs, definitely a smart use of space. This not only looks great, but imagine all the extra storage here! Linens, shoes, sports equipment, games, the list of possibilities is endless. I like how this idea could work as well in a central part of the house (even in an entryway) as in the basement.
Real Implementation 2:

If under-stair drawers are completely out of the realm of possibility, consider looking toward the other side of the staircase for your storage solutions. Installing built-in shelves on the actual staircase wall (assuming your stairs are wide enough) is a fairly straight-forward DIY with loads of storage potential.
Dreamy Inspiration 3:

If your staircase has a landing, consider turning that perfect square footage into an “underground” storage box! Great for extra pillows, blankets, seasonal wear…whatever. I think this idea is fantastic, although I imagine few of us have the setup that would make incorporating this smart space possible.
Real Implementation 3:

Whether or not your stairs have a landing, consider mounting a style-friendly storage unit on a nearby wall. At the base of this staircase, this wooden shelving piece is useful (think seasonal wear, such as mittens and scarves in winter, skates and sunglasses in summer) and aesthetic.
Dreamy Inspiration 4:

Of course, who wouldn’t love a built-in mudroom under the stairs? It’s organized, it’s functional, and it’s visually endearing. Even in a space adjacent to a more formal living room, this is an excellent idea.
Real Implementation 4:

Don’t have time, or room, for a built-in bench and coat hangers? Then mount some cute hooks on the wall and some wire baskets on a few shelves, and you’re golden. Done in an afternoon. I, for one, am in LOVE with this idea. Especially for a basement stairway.
Dreamy Inspiration 5:

Ooh, I do love the coziness of a little special space. This office nook under the stairs is so chic and modern, even with the rustic wood paneling. With the wall that seamlessly “turns into” a desk, this idea was definitely planned from the beginning of construction, and it’s utterly inspiring.
Real Implementation 5:

If your staircase is already built, though, and you’re left scratching your head to figure out how to maximize the leftover space, never fear! Find a small table, a lamp, and a chair, put them all under the stairs, and throw in a few pieces of art or framed photographs. Bam. Home office under the stairs. Your space never was smarter.

How to Maximize Seating in a Small Space

Small spaces can be difficult to lay out and decorate, particularly if you have a large family or like to entertain and need a lot of seating space. But there are some decorating tricks and things you can do to maximize seating in a small space without creating a cluttered room.
Scale Your Furniture.

When you’re working with a small room, the last thing you want to do is choose oversized furniture. A fluffy couch and large recliner take up much more room than a modern sofa and simple 4-legged chair.

Add a Window Seat.

There are certain corners of a home that you might not immediately think of for seating purposes, but in a small space they can be incredibly useful. A small bench along a window ledge can add a few extra seats without taking up too much space in your room.
Consider an Ottoman.

In your traditional living room, you might have a sofa, loveseat, maybe a chair or two, and a coffee table. But by using an ottoman instead of a coffee table, you can have a space to put drinks and other items (just use trays if you need a flat surface) that can also double as extra seating if you have guests.
Get Creative With Storage.

No matter how small your space is, you always have things to store. So in your small space, you have to get creative with how you store things. Many stores sell ottomans with built-in storage. You can also keep items under your coffee table or side tables.
Utilize Removable Seating.

It’s nice to have some lightweight chairs or other pieces that you can bring in for guests but remove when it’s just your family so that the room isn’t too crowded.
Carefully Select Colors and Patterns.

Using light colors, neutrals, and patterns that draw the eye vertically, you can make your space seem a little bigger than it is. This doesn’t necessarily maximize seating space on its own, but by making the eye think the room is not so small, you may be able to fit an extra seat or furniture piece without having the room look too cluttered.
When it comes to small spaces, the line between cozy and cramped can be pretty thin. But the above tips can help you keep your room on the right side of that line.
Pictures: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 and 6.

Dilapidated Building Converted Into A Beautiful Home Featuring ExposedBrick Walls

It’s not that rare to see old buildings redesigned and renovated but usually they’re not in such bad shape. This used to be a dilapidated building so it was almost a ruin.

Then designer Alexandros Washburn found it and he fell in love with it instantly. He bought the three story brick and stone house and decided to make it his family home. Not long after they all moved in the whole house got flooded with water from the Hudson and East Rivers. It was a bad night but the designer managed to see the good in this disaster.




Everyone got evacuated that night except for him who stayed there and tried to understand what the storm did to the house so he could fix it. Amazingly, he came up with a solution. He decided to make his first floor and those of his neighbors floodproof. You’re probably wondering how exactly he planned to do that. Well he came up with a prototype for a hydrostatic equalizer with a series of perforated tubes that run under the foundation and channel the water away from the house.



Of course, there had to be a problem with this plan. The law says that homes cannot be floodproofed and only commercial buildings can benefit from this treatment. So Mr. Washburn decided he will rent the ground floor of his house to a restaurant or flower shop. It’s definitely a very ambitious plan.{found on nytimes}.

The New Game Studio 2o Office Has A Spaceship-Like Interior

Innovation is a key feature in interior design so it’s always interesting and fun to see corporate offices and their new designs. Today we’re going to take a look at the new office of Game Studio 2o. It was a project by Ezzo Design and it’s located in Timisoara, Romania. It’s indeed a remarkable space with an unconventional look and layout.

But let’s learn more about what seems to be a spaceship-themed office. It’s reminiscent of TV series like Star Trek or Star Wars without having anything specific borrowed from there. What’s even more interesting about this office is that it actually combines the sci-fi-inspired elements with details inspired by nature and it also has a sustainable side to it as well.








It all started from the demand of the client. He requested a spacious office with plenty of natural light and with an unusual design. The architects managed to incorporate both requests into their design and to also impress with many other choices. The office is bright and spacious, a feeling emphasized by the tall ceilings with exposed pipes and by the large windows.










It also feels fresh and green thanks to all the potted plants and shrubs. Let’s not forget about the painted walls which are amazing. This is definitely not the type of office you’d expect to see here and this makes it that much more inspiring and incredible.

How To Use Abstract Art In Your Home Without Making It Look Out Of Place

Abstract art may seem like a very pretentious style that’s not suitable for any home but it’s actually more versatile than you think. So before you say abstract art wouldn’t look good in your home just stop and analyze the facts. Abstract art doesn’t look great only in modern decors. It can also complement nicely a more traditional setting.
Living room.

The colors features in the abstract painting are partially found in the rest of the room
The most difficult thing to do is step outside your comfort zone and try something different. So how about we start with this detail? At least consider using abstract art in your home and analyze the attributes it brings with it. For example, abstract art can really brighten up a room and it can give it a fresh perspective.


The abstract art on the walls matches the minimalist color palette and adds a warm vibe

Sometimes abstract art is just a way of complementing a well-balanced décor

Blue has become the main accent color in this home and the focal point is the abstract painting

The painting reunites all the bold accent colors used throughout the room

Here, the goal is not to create contrast but to make the room look harmonious

You can easily add a touch of color to a room through large artwork

Although eye-catching the oversized abstract painting is not intimidating
In a more traditional décor, it can add a little bit of contrast and create an eye-catching blend. A very difficult thing to do is match abstract art with the décor. But the two don’t necessarily have to look similar.

Making abstract art integrate into a modern décor is actually quite simple

The colors aren’t the only important details in a piece of art. So are shapes and lines

The minimalist, abstract artwork brings a fresh perspective into this traditional living room
Kitchen and dining room.

An open-plan kitchen leaves plenty of room for artwork on the walls

Very bold and eye-catching, the painting provides a hypnotizing focal point for the room

Notice how delicate the abstract painting is despite the vibrant colors

Abstract art can be a very refreshing and dynamic addition to a space like the kitchen

Considering the color palette throughout, the bright yellow artwork is a welcomed detail
Bedroom.

Such a bold painting can be difficult to integrate in a bedroom décor but here it’s a nice addition

Blue is used throughout the room and the yellow accents which brighten up the room

Something highly abstract can often be a good choice for the bedroom because it fuels your imagination
Entryway.

Welcome your guests with a vibrant décor featuring splashes of color and abstract lines

Abstract art is perfect for both modern and traditional spaces
Office.

Add some cheer to your home office with a beautiful painting that reflects you as a person

A contemporary home office can always benefit from a minimalist, abstract painting

Abstract art is great because it doesn’t allow your home office to become boring

Although looked at separately the painting can seem overwhelming, it blends it wonderfully

The tiny work area looks very peaceful, especially with that gorgeous painting
Abstract art can also help you establish a color palette for the room. You can take a color and repeat it in the fabrics or in the accessories. Combining styles is rather easy too. For example, you can pair up some traditional furniture that’s a little more ornate with simple, abstract art and the result will be a fresh feel that’s not old fashioned.
Picture sources: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9,10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17 and 18.