7 Ways On How To Get The Most Out Of Awkward, Empty Spaces

Whether it’s under the staircase or a tricky corner in the living room, there are areas in most homes that are crying out for invigoration. Sometimes, the positions of doors and windows make it hard to use the space, while other rooms have structural features that seem difficult to accommodate.

With some careful planning, you can turn those unusable spaces into a functional and aesthetically pleasing area as any other areas in your home. Here's how to transform neglected nooks into useful and inviting spots that make life at home better!

1. Transform an empty space under the stairs into a bespoke bar

Have you always wanted to have a bar in your home, but didn’t think you had the space needed for it? If this is the case, then your awkward, empty space is the answer! In this modern contemporary home, Vault Design Lab turned the unused under-stairs space into a rustic home bar that comes complete with a custom made liquor storage unit, dramatic lighting, brick walls and repurposed bar stools. Did someone say "happy hour"?

2. Decorate your bare corners with potted plants

If you have a tricky corner that furniture can't fill, you can always decorate the dead space with some greenery. Indoor plants are a God-send for filling voids in the home. You can pretty much squeeze a plant into any vacant spot – besides your bed, in the bathroom and, of course, in empty corners. In this modern home, an oversized plant placed on an odd corner spot next to the floor lamp adds dimension, texture, and a much-needed dose of fresh nature-inspired vibe to the living room.

3. Turn an empty nook into a kid’s playroom

A play area is a nice use of a dead space if you have little ones running around, and keeps toys somewhat containable. This clever kid’s play area, for example, makes use of an otherwise abandoned corner in this home. Instead of using a floor hogging toy box, EMPT studio created a custom-built storage unit with cushion seating for a space-saving idea that creates storage for playthings.

4. Create a cosy seating area on your window corner

If you have an empty corner by the window, consider turning it into a cosy window seat to fill the empty space. It’s one of the most effective ways to add dimension to a room besides providing a nice reading corner or a cosy spot to sit. Here’s an example of a chic seating area that makes great use of an empty corner near the window with a custom bench and a hidden storage unit underneath. The corner window also brings in ample natural ventilation, giving the bedroom an airy appeal.

5. Set up a mini-study or workstation on your recessed nook

Here's proof that a run-of-the-mill corner can also boost productivity (and be stylish at the same time!). You can turn an empty corner in your bedroom into a mini-study area or a workstation. This idea, not only does it make your bedroom more functional, but it actually makes it feel like a bigger space because you’ve carved out areas for different tasks all within one room. All you need is a comfy chair and a writing desk that fits into your nook. Use the vertical space to get organized by building a shelving unit above the desk for extra storage.

6. Fill the odd space with a display shelf

If you have an odd space in your home and you’re not sure what to do with it, consider turning it into a shelving area. You can also use your shelves to create a focal point or use them to display decorative items, artwork or books, as pictured in this modern contemporary condominium. It draws your eye to what, otherwise, would be a neglected space.

7. Turn an entryway corner into a storage area

Due to its awkward structure, homeowners often neglect to renovate the space in front of the entrance door and usually leaving it empty. One of the best ways to add functionality to your home's entryway area is by adding some built-in storage units. In this 3-bedroom apartment, the bare space by the entrance door becomes a major storage opportunity to neatly store shoes, umbrellas and other grab and go essentials.

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