Decorating ideas for the awkward, empty spaces in your home
Transform an unused or awkward space in your home into something special
Every home has that awkward spot – corners, under the stairs, in a corner, end of the hallway, entrances – that one doesn’t quite know what to do with. Leave it bare and it looks like something’s missing or fill it with whatever spare furniture you have lying around and run the risk of a decorating disaster.
These tricky spaces require careful consideration or, in some cases, an expert’s opinion, in order to make the most out of this unused area and transform it into either a practical or decorative feature – or both, if you’re lucky!
From bar carts to bench seats and smart study nooks, here are some clever ways to fill the void in your unfinished home.
First, what are these usual spaces?
- UNDER THE STAIRS
- HIGH CEILINGS
- ENTRANCES
- BAY WINDOWS
- END OF A HALLWAY
Here are some fun ideas that can not only give your home a beautiful feel, but also create more utility space for your family to enjoy.
HOME LIBRARY
When stuck for ideas don’t forget a good built in but open bookcase can do wonders – under the staircase or in a corner. Creating a dynamic range of colourful spines and at the same time working extremely well as a sound absorber. A book-laden home always looks very appealing.
INDOOR PLANTS
Indoor plants are a godsend for filling voids in the home. You can pretty much squeeze a plant into any vacant spot – beside your bed, on top of bookshelves and, of course, in empty corners.
And they won’t just fill a space, indoor plants will bring any dead zone to life – trusting you can keep them alive.
ORNAMENTS AND ARTEFACTS
Another method that works well to fill empty corners are long thin objects that can be casually leaned into the corner. These may include vintage oars or artefacts such as statues, spears and masks. Not your style? How about a styled stack of magazines or books?
STRIKING VIGNETTE
Create a striking display or vignette on a shelving unit or narrow console using books and vessels or everyday items like books, vases and artwork.
HOME OFFICE
Make use of dead space and set up a home office. All you need is a comfy chair and desk that fits into your nook. Hang shelves above for extra storage.
STATEMENT CHAIR
A rattan cocoon chair is the way to go, if you’re looking to carve out a space to chill in a corner of any room! Spice it up with an Indian-style padded floor mattress and quilted seats, warm wicker floor lamps.
LIGHTING
Bare spaces are often the perfect location for a tall floor light.
BAR CART
Bar carts are all the rage right now and can be easily tucked into a tight corner or along the blank wall beside your dining table. Not only will a beautifully-styled bar cart amplify your interior, it will also make entertaining a breeze! Did someone say “happy hour”?
WINDOWS
Putting in a window where a blank wall would be is a smart design decision, assuming that it doesn’t affect your privacy. Not only will you amplify the natural light in your home, you may be lucky enough to create a beautiful outlook.
BENCH SEAT
What to do with that blank wall or unused space under a window? We have two words for you: bench seat. Adding an extra spot to retreat and relax in your home is not something you will regret.
WALL HOOKS
While bare walls can be brought to life with artwork, they can also be turned into a source of storage. Enter, wall hooks. Decorative designs like these timber dots are pretty and practical, providing a handy place to hang bags, coats or whatever you please. This is an especially good idea for entryways.
HIDEAWAY LAUNDRY
An awkward niche is cleverly transformed into a laundry space, neatly hidden behind folding double doors. Simple cabinetry above the washing machine holds detergent and other essentials, while the floating shelf to one side can be used to stack linen.
Need more creative ideas for your home? Our team of décor experts is ready to help. All it takes is one call, and we’ll take over!
