Hidden Storage: Under-the-Stairs Bookcase

Until now, this triangular area under the stairs has just been wasted space. But today I am going to turn this spot under the stairs into a beautiful and useful recessed bookshelf.

The first step for doing any project where you are recessing something into the wall is to find the studs. Trace out the stud pattern, and then you can use that framework to design the bookshelf.

Basically what I am going to do is to create boxes that fit between the studs, and attach those to the studs with screws. Then I can put trim around the outside edge to hide those seams.

The first step is to cut out the drywall for our boxes, and I will do that with a drywall saw like this one.

So now we have our openings and can take measurements to draw up the plans for my boxes. I am making 3 boxes with adjustable shelving, which will get smaller as they go, to match my descending staircase.

You can build your boxes out of plywood, and attach them together with screws or nails.

Make sure to test fit as you go. You want a decently snug fit, but not too tight. You can always add some shims to make it fit better when you screw things together later.

Now that the boxes are built, I can drill holes for the adjustable shelving. I have these shelf pins from Lowe's, and that shows me what size drill bit I need to use. Use a piece of pegboard as a guide to draw the holes for your shelf pins, and then drill only a quarter-inch into your side pieces.

These boxes need some shelves. Measure your boxes and cut your shelves to the right size, and test fit with the shelf pins to make sure they fit correctly.

Now is a good time to paint the boxes and shelves. I'm going to paint the sides of my bookshelf white, and the back panel to match the rest of the wall.

The way you paint and decorate this bookshelf will really change the look of the room, so explore some paint and wallpaper options that fit your space.

Put the boxes into place, make sure they are level, and attach them with screws into the studs.

Finish it up by adding trim around the outside edges, and you are done!

If you enjoyed building this project with me, please check out Lowes.com/HowTo for more great project ideas.

Subscribe to Lowe's YouTube for great how to videos and home improvement tips: http://www.youtube.com/subscription_c...

Or head to our channel:    / lowes