Open staircase decorating ideas: 10 tips to make the most of this space
Do you have an open staircase (without risers, with open-tread steps) and are wondering what to do with the space underneath? We understand. This space under an open staircase is both an opportunity and a challenge: you can see through it, so you can't simply turn it into a closed cupboard.
But that's exactly what makes it so charming! An open staircase is modern and bright, and lets light through... And the space underneath can become a real decorative asset rather than a dead corner you don't know how to use.
The key is to understand that decor under an open staircase needs to be visible, polished and attractive since you can see through the steps. There's no hiding boxes or clutter like you would under a traditional closed staircase.
L’space beneath an open staircase is an opportunity to create something really stylish: a cozy reading nook, a bright office, a designer storage area, or even a decorative feature that catches the eye. In short, an element that contributes to the overall ambiance of your room.
We've put together 10 decorating ideas specifically designed for open staircases, where each solution makes the most of their transparency rather than working against it.
Here's an overview of the best ideas for the space under an open staircase:
| Decorating idea | Space saved | Budget | Difficulty | Style |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cozy reading nook | Medium | 200-800 € | Easy | All styles |
| Mini office | Medium | 300-1200 € | Medium | Modern, practical |
| Designer open shelving | High | 150-600 € | Easy to moderate | Modern, minimalist |
| Bench with storage | Medium | 200-600 € | Medium | Scandinavian, entryway |
| Plant/jungle area | Low | 100-400 € | Easy | Bohemian, natural |
| Bar/wine cellar | Medium | 400-2000 € | Medium | Contemporary, welcoming |
| Children's play area | Medium | 150-500 € | Easy | Family-friendly, playful |
| Art installation | Low | Variable | Easy | Contemporary, minimalist |
| Open bookcase | High | 200-1000 € | Medium | Classic, modern |
| Relaxation/meditation corner | Medium | 150-500 € | Easy | Zen, cozy |
1. Create a cozy, bright reading nook
Turning the space beneath your open staircase into a reading nook is the ultimate cozy option. The advantage of an open staircase is that light passes through the steps, so your reading nook will naturally be bright.
How to set it up?
Add a comfortable armchair (a bergère armchair, an egg chair, an XXL beanbag...), a small side table for your cup of tea and your book, a reading lamp, a soft throw and a few cushions.
If space allows, add a small low shelf to store the books you're currently reading. L's idea is to create a little cozy nook where you want to settle in with a good book.
Decorating tip: Visually define this space with a soft rug that creates a "room within a room." It gives the space structure and makes it more comfortable underfoot.
This solution works especially well if your open staircase is in the living room. The reading nook becomes a natural extension of the living space.
2. Set up a functional mini desk
A small desk under an open staircase is THE solution for creating a workspace without sacrificing an entire room. With remote work, we're all looking for places to get work done, and the space under the stairs is perfect for that.
How to set it up?
Install a desk suited to the available height (custom-made or a compact off-the-shelf desk). Add an ergonomic chair, desk lighting (an adjustable lamp), and organize storage with boxes and wall shelves above.
L's advantage with an open staircase is that you don't feel enclosed like you would under a closed staircase. Light passes through, and you can see the space around you, making it much more pleasant to work.
Warning: Check the available height. You need at least 1.40-1.50 m of height to sit comfortably. If it's lower, make better use of the tallest part of the space under the stairs.
This solution is perfect if you live in an apartment or small house and are desperately looking for a place to work.
3. Create stylish open shelving
Open shelving under an open staircase is the option that fully embraces transparency. You create storage and display space while keeping that airy, bright feel.
How should you arrange them?
Install shelves that follow the slope of the staircase, creating an interesting graphic arrangement. Vary the heights to display books, decorative objects, plants, decorative tableware, vinyl records...
The thing is, these shelves are visible from everywhere (through the stair treads and from the room), so everything you put on them needs to be neat and attractive. No clutter!
Composition tip: Alternate tall and short objects, filled and empty spaces. Leave room to breathe; don’t overcrowd. The effect should remain light and airy to respect the open staircase’s style.
This solution works with any style: black metal shelves for an industrial look, light wood for a Scandinavian style, and dark wood for a modern classic look.
4. Install a bench with hidden storage
A bench with built-in storage under the open staircase is a practical AND attractive option. The bench provides a seat (for putting on your shoes if the staircase is in the entryway, or simply for sitting down), while the storage underneath keeps essentials out of sight.
How to set it up?
Choose a custom-made bench or one that fits the space, with storage compartments inside for shoes, bags, and accessories. Add comfortable cushions on top and a few decorative cushions against the wall.
Above the bench, hang stylish hooks for coats or picture frames for decoration. L'ensemble creates a small, functional area that feels cohesive.
This solution is particularly well suited if your open staircase starts at the entrance. The bench naturally creates a drop-off zone where you arrive and leave.
5. Create an urban jungle with plants
Turn the space under your open staircase into a plant jungle. This green, natural option brings the area to life and makes the most of the light filtering through the open steps.
How to set it up?
Arrange plants at different heights on a variety of stands: tall plants on the floor in beautiful planters, medium-sized plants on stools or plant stands, and hanging plants attached to the staircase structure.
Mix different species to create varied textures: monstera for a tropical feel, cacti for a graphic look, ferns for volume, trailing pothos for a cascade of green...
Important: This option only works if your open staircase gets natural light (with a window nearby). Plants need light to thrive.
It's the perfect option for plant lovers who have run out of space on their shelves and windowsills!
6. Set up a stylish bar or wine cellar
A mini bar or wine cellar under the open staircase is a welcoming and sophisticated option. You create a dedicated space for drinks and good bottles of wine.
How to set it up?
Install a wine rack suited to the space (custom-made or modular), add a small console table or shelf for preparing drinks, set up ambient lighting (LEDs, a wall light), and display your best bottles and glasses.
If space allows, add a few tall bar stools to create a proper drinks corner. It's sociable and always surprises guests.
Temperature warning: Avoid this option if your staircase is in direct sunlight or near a radiator. Wine doesn't like heat or temperature fluctuations.
This solution is perfect for homes where people enjoy entertaining and the open staircase is in the living room or main living area.
7. Create a play area for children
Turning the space under the open staircase into a little play area for children is a smart idea. Children love slightly hidden spaces, and you can keep toys in a dedicated area without letting them take over the whole living room.
How to set it up?
Put in colorful storage bins for toys and a small, soft rug on the floor, perhaps with a little coffee table for drawing or playing. Keep the space open and accessible.
Above, hang framed children's drawings or playful posters. L's the idea: create a space that belongs to them while keeping it attractive from the outside.
Safety: If your children are young, check that the open staircase has steps with gaps that meet safety standards (less than 10 cm apart to prevent them from putting their heads through).
This solution is temporary: as the children grow up, you can easily turn the space into a home office or reading nook.
8. Display a work of art or sculpture
Rather than filling the space under the open staircase, turn it into a showcase for a striking piece of art: a large sculpture, a light installation, a spectacular work of art...
How can you style it?
Choose a piece with enough presence to “hold” the space. Add dedicated lighting (an adjustable spotlight, LED lighting) to highlight it. Keep everything else minimal.
L’space beneath the staircase then becomes a personal kind of art gallery. It’s particularly well suited to minimalist contemporary interiors.
This approach works well if you collect art or have a statement piece you really want to showcase. The budget varies enormously depending on your choices (from €100 to several thousand).
9. Create a sophisticated open bookcase
A low bookcase that follows the staircase's decreasing height is a classic, but remarkably effective. You can use the entire space to store your books while preserving the airy feel of the open staircase.
How to set it up?
Install custom-made or modular shelves that make use of all the available height. Arrange your books by color for a stunning visual effect, or by theme if you prefer practicality.
Add a few decorative items among the books to create a lighter look: plants, photo frames, candles, travel souvenirs... This avoids an overly serious "public library" feel.
Tip: In the lowest section (where there's no longer enough height to store books upright), lay them flat and stack them. This creates an interesting visual variation.
This solution is perfect for book lovers who are desperately short on space for their collection.
10. Create a relaxing zen meditation corner
Turn this space into a little zen retreat where you can sit down to meditate, do yoga, or simply recharge for 5 minutes during the day.
How to set it up?
Lay down a yoga or meditation mat and add a few comfortable floor cushions (a zafu for meditation) and a small coffee table for a candle or incense. Keep the decor minimalist and soothing.
Add a plant (bamboo, a small bonsai), perhaps a small indoor fountain for the sound of water, and soft lighting (LED string lights, a candle).
L's the space under the stairs becomes your own little sanctuary. It's especially suitable if the staircase is in a quiet part of the house, away from the main thoroughfare.
This option requires little investment (€150-300) but delivers a lot in terms of well-being.
Designing the space under an open staircase means turning a constraint into an asset. Whether you choose a cozy reading nook, a functional mini office, designer shelves, a practical bench, or a jungle of plants, the key is to preserve the airy, bright feel that makes open staircases so charming. Add thoughtful decor, organize the space, and install good lighting, and this area will become a real asset to your home.
Layout of the space beneath an open staircase transforms an often-neglected area into a decorative asset, but don't forget to enhance the adjoining walls as well by exploring our staircase wall decorating ideas, which will enhance this vertical circulation space. A holistic approach that considers the staircase as a complete architectural feature.
Frequently asked questions about making use of the space beneath an open staircase
Still unsure? Here are the answers to the questions we're asked most often about making use of the space beneath an open staircase.
Can you close off the space beneath an open staircase?
Technically, yes, but that would be a shame! The whole appeal of an open staircase is its lightness and transparency, which let light through. Closing off the space underneath would completely ruin this effect and turn your beautiful open staircase into a conventional one. If you really need closed storage, opt for a cabinet with doors (such as a storage bench) that retains a certain elegance, rather than putting up a full partition that would make the whole space feel heavy.
What is the minimum height needed beneath a staircase for a desk?
To set up a comfortable desk beneath an open staircase, you need at least 1.40-1.50 m of clearance where you sit. With less space, you may feel cramped and risk bumping your head when you stand up. Carefully measure the available height before buying your desk and chair. If there isn't enough room in the lower section, use the highest part of the space beneath the staircase instead, where you have more headroom. Or choose another use for the space (low storage, plants, a bench).
How can you childproof an open staircase?
An open staircase must comply with safety standards: the gap between the steps must not exceed 10 cm to prevent a child from getting their head or body through. If your staircase does not meet this standard (for example, an older staircase), you can temporarily install transparent plexiglass panels on the sides or beneath the steps to provide protection without spoiling the visual effect. Special safety nets are also available. As for the space beneath the staircase, avoid storing heavy or dangerous objects there where children can reach them, and opt for a playful setup (play area, cushions) that will attract them in a positive way.
