Here’s How to Create Storage Under the Stairs

DIY under stair storage: such a great idea! Who isn’t looking for more storage ideas, after all? Follow our simple steps to create always-useful shelves in that often-neglected and under-utilized space under the stairs.

Supplies:

• laminated pine panels 

• hardboard 

• colonial stop moulding 

• wood glue 

• screws 

• finishing nails 

• BeautiTone paint

Tools:

• measuring tape

• pencil 

• saw 

• sandpaper 

• level 

• hammer 

• paint brush and/or paint roller 

• utility knife 

• drill 

• oscillating tool or reciprocating saw 

• nail gun (optional)

If the area under the stairs is prefinished, the space needs to be cleared, then framed and drywalled. First, check that there are no support walls or wiring that needs to be addressed. If good to go, remove the baseboard trim. Next, cut away wall covering such as drywall. Ensure your wall is plumb and begin framing. If possible, use existing studs. Apply drywall; now you are ready to begin your under-stairs project.

Steps:

1.  Assemble all materials for project. 

2.  Measure each surface of the area under your stairs: the opening’s height, width and depth; and identify how big your unit will be. 

3. Cut pine planks into corresponding heights, lengths and depths. 

4. Lightly sand cut edges of planks, then screw together to create the outside frame of your under-stairs storage unit. 

5. Measure and mark placement for each vertical panel. 

6. Mark placement for each shelf within the frame with pencil, and secure each in place with screws. Use a cut shelf that is the size of each opening, as a guide for easy marking and placement. Place the loose shelf up against a secured shelf and screw the next shelf in place. 

7.  Measure and mark placement of horizontal shelves along vertical panels. 

8. Lightly glue each shelf edge and secure each in place with screws. 

9. Repeat to create all the nooks. 

10. Use wood filler to fill all screw holes. 

11. Paint entire unit with BeautiTone paint. Let dry. 

12. Secure hardboard to back of shelving frame with finishing nails. 

13. Slide unit into place ensuring support and level. Secure to walls at all corners using screws. 

14. Finish the edging with strip moulding and baseboard.