Joanna Gaines' Clever Ideas To Repurpose The Empty Space Under Your Stairs

Social media is teeming with interior design inspiration, but there's nothing like a classic TV home renovation to get the interior decor juices flowing. And when you want to see breathtaking transformations, interior designer and HGTV icon Joanna Gaines is a major source for timeless farmhouse-inspired ideas that instantly elevate your decor. One design example that she demonstrates in an episode of 2025's "Fixer Upper: Colorado Mountain House" includes how she transforms her gorgeous home in the Rocky Mountains into a picturebook chalet. It's particularly inspiring how she takes advantage of dead space in the home, transforming the bottom of the staircase into a reading nook that gives major chic yet rustic ski resort vibes. But she also reveals a few other creative ways which this specific area of empty space can live up to its full potential.

In addition to discussing the details of her Colorado mountain home, Gaines shares a number of ways to utilize the space underneath the stairs. Namely, she recommends adding a coffee bar, desk or office nook, and a storage for toys. "These are simple, small ways to really make a big impact," she explains in a recap that was posted to Instagram. It's also the perfect space for other built-ins, including storage and cabinetry.

While you're welcome to follow in Joanna Gaines' footsteps and add a peaceful oasis underneath your stairs, there are other ways in which to maximize the space under the stairs that follow similar design principles as a reading nook. For example, an office or work nook can bring functionality to the space. Install a built-in desk that fills out the space and include a comfy chair that makes the nook feel inviting. You can add custom doors like Gaines does, or leave it open, depending on the size of your stairs.

Another one of Gaines' examples is a coffee bar. This can be as simple as breaking down the dead space and adding a coffee bar cart or built-in cabinets and shelves that hold all of your coffee essentials. Add a seating area, such as a small bench or chair, and a compact table.

If your staircase is near the entryway, as many are, this may also be the perfect space for a mudroom. In that case, you can take inspiration from the "Fixer Upper" renovation and add an enclave that includes an upholstered bench seat with storage underneath for housing your shoes. You can also add a hanging rack for coats and other accessories. You can further maximize storage space in this dead space by adding built-in cabinets or shelves to store children's toys, out-of-season clothes, or extra linens.