Clever Storage Ideas to Build In While You Renovate

If you’re already pulling up floorboards, knocking through walls, or installing a new kitchen, now’s the time to sneak in storage you’ll thank yourself for later. Built-in solutions not only look sleeker than freestanding units, they make the most of those awkward nooks you’d otherwise ignore.

Here’s how to bake storage into your renovation plans - without blowing your budget or style credentials.

1. Staircase Drawers & Cupboards

The space under your stairs is basically prime real estate. Think pull-out drawers for shoes, cupboard doors for coats, or even a reading nook with hidden storage underneath.

Spruce Tip: If you’re on a budget, keep the carcasses simple and invest in beautiful handles or paint for a polished finish.

2. Built-In Window Seats

A cosy perch with storage inside? Yes please. Perfect for bay windows in living rooms, kitchens, or bedrooms.

Spruce Tip: Use lift-up lids rather than drawers to keep costs (and fiddly hardware) down. Great for blankets, board games, or the good cushions.

3. Alcove Shelving

Chimney breast either side? Awkward corner in the hallway? Custom alcove shelves make these spaces look intentional and give you somewhere to style your favourite bits.

Spruce Tip: MDF shelves painted the same colour as your walls look high-end without the joinery price tag.

4. Headboard Storage

If your bedroom’s on the smaller side, build storage into the headboard - from slim shelves for books to hidden cupboards for seasonal bedding.

Spruce Tip: Combine with integrated bedside lighting to keep surfaces clutter-free.

5. Kickboard Drawers in Kitchens

That dead space under your lower cabinets? It’s crying out to hide baking trays, spare chopping boards, or even pet bowls.

Spruce Tip: Ask your kitchen fitter about adding runners to the kickboard area - it’s usually much cheaper than you’d think.

6. Ceiling-Height Wardrobes

If you’re getting wardrobes fitted, take them all the way up. Not only does it look smarter, it stops dust collecting and gives you bonus space for luggage and out-of-season clothes.

Spruce Tip: Use the top cupboards for things you only need once in a blue moon.

🎁 Planning a big renovation?
We’re giving one lucky winner £10,000 to makeover their home - the perfect excuse to add all the clever storage you can dream up.
Enter here before 30 September and make 2025 the year your home gets organised and beautiful.

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