The 10 best ways to utilise hidden spaces in your home

Some might not be aware of certain 'hidden' spaces around the home which can give people extra storage and private relaxation space.

It's also an activity that can allow creativity to flourish in making use of a previously neglected space.

To help out homeowners, The Sliding Door Wardrobe Company has suggested a number of tips for this.

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Top 10 ingenious ways you can utilise the hidden spaces in your home

Cupboard under the stairs

Instead of this just being a place where you sling your coats, the cupboard under the stairs could be utilised for a more cosy function.

Simply add some soft lighting, fitted shelving and perhaps a comfy chair, and you have your very own hidden home library.

Alternatively, if you fit some deep drawers and clothing rails you can store all the kids’ toys, games and clothes that they don’t need in their bedrooms.

Basement

An unused basement could be converted into a dream home bar, with fitted shelving to store all your spirits and wine bottles.

The Sliding Door Wardrobe Company adds: "You could even add some rugs, soft cushions and warm lighting to cultivate a cosy vibe and transform your basement from spooky to stand-out."

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Walk-in wardrobe

If you've got a big enough walk-in wardrobe, you could remove the rails, replacing them with a fitted desk and shelving.

Add a comfy chair, and make sure you have access to a charging port to make a hidden home office.

Spare cupboard

If you have a cupboard in your kitchen that's being used to store junk, then get rid of the things you don't need.

Then add some fitted shelving to the cupboard’s interior to create your very own home pantry.

You could even install some extra lighting, along with fitted drawers and removable storage boxes to keep kitchen utensils, smaller food items and even herbs and spices.

Outdoor decking

If you want a big project and have space beneath your decking, you could fit a retractable section and install a hot tub underneath.

The Sliding Door Wardrobe Company adds: "This idea is also great in terms of space-saving – you don’t have to sacrifice your outdoor decking space for a permanently visible hot tub.

"Simply hide the hot tub underneath the decking and uncover when you fancy a dip!" 

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Blank wall

A blank wall could be a great space for floating shelves, which could be a nice decorative addition.

You could even add a hidden drawer or compartment to your floating shelf for even more storage space.

The space under the bed

If you're not doing this already, then adding a pull-out drawer or boxes under your bed can be a useful storage solution.

Attic

The attic is often a space to store random items, but it could be utilised into a really homely spot if you clear it out.

The Sliding Door Wardrobe Company adds: "Keep one attic wall blank, add some comfy seating, a few blankets and a portable projector. Congratulations, you have your very own cinema room!

An attic can be converted into another type of room (Image: Getty Images)

"Subtle strings of fairy lights, a mini-fridge containing drinks and snacks, and spare pillows for guests are the perfect finishing touches."

Hollow floorboards

If you’re lucky enough to have an open area beneath your floorboards, then you can use it as a small storage space.

"Get creative with the DIY and install a trapdoor to help with ease of access to your new storage space," The Sliding Door Wardrobe Company says.

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A tall, thin cupboard

Washing machines, dryers and piles of clothes could all fit within some tall, thin cupboards if you're not using them.

The Sliding Door Wardrobe Company adds: "Stack your washing machine and tumble dryer on top of one another, ensuring both fit within an otherwise awkward space.

"Plus, when you close the doors, you can easily forget about all the washing you have to do!"