8 sneaky ways to add storage to your home

Whether you live in a small studio flat, or a four bedroom house, we’re all looking for creative ways to add more storage to our homes. But adding more storage to your home doesn’t mean stuffing things into every nook and cranny—it’s all about working smarter, not harder.

Thankfully, there are plenty of clever ways to maximise the space that you have, and squeeze in some extra storage without sacrificing on style. (Because no one wants to feel like they’re living inside a furniture store).

A coffee table with drawers

Instead of a standard coffee table, opt for one with built-in drawers or compartments. This way, you can stash away remotes, coasters and board games to keep your living room clutter-free. Multi-purpose furniture is a big yes from us.

→ 70 objects to store in a coffee table with drawers

An ottoman footstool

A footstool is already a perfect addition to an armchair or loveseat, but when that footstool doubles up as storage? That’s a winner right there. Whether you choose a round or bench design, use it as a place to keep blankets, books or the kids’ toys when unexpected guests drop by and you need to tidy up the living room in a flash. 

→ 5 reasons why you should have a storage ottoman

An ottoman as a vanity stool

Need a way to keep your bedroom or dressing area clutter-free? Swap out a traditional vanity stool for a storage ottoman! It’s the perfect perch while you get ready, and it secretly stows away makeup, hair tools or accessories. Especially in smaller spaces where every inch counts, this little trick can make a big difference.

A console table at the back of your sofa

Ever noticed that awkward empty space behind your sofa? That’s prime real estate for extra storage. Place a slim console table at the back of your sofa to store baskets and bins filled with essentials like extra blankets or candles. If you want even more hidden storage, opt for a console with built-in drawers to tuck away those small bits and bobs (e.g. matches and batteries) that you don’t want lying around.

Drawers in toe kicks

You know that toe-kick space beneath your kitchen and bathroom cabinets? It’s time to put it to work! Installing hidden drawers in these underutilised areas is a great way to store baking sheets, cutting boards, pet bowls or even mops and brushes. The best part? They blend seamlessly into your cabinets, so no one would even know they’re there. 

An ottoman bed

Unlike traditional bed frames, ottoman beds have a hydraulic lift mechanism, which allows you to effortlessly raise the mattress for a spacious compartment underneath. This hidden storage is ideal for keeping seasonal clothing, extra duvets, or bulky items that don’t fit elsewhere. Top tip: Use vacuum bags to reduce the amount of space your textiles take up, so you can squeeze as much space from your underbed storage as possible. 

Drawers in stairs

Instead of leaving the space under your stairs empty, install drawers within the steps themselves. These hidden compartments can store everything from shoes to Christmas decorations. Whether you go for a custom-built design or retro-fit your existing stairs, this storage hack is a total win for keeping all your stuff at bay while making the most of every square inch.

Cabinet storage-boosters

If you can see empty space above the plates and mugs in your cabinets, there’s a good chance you’re not making the best use of the room you have. Add some hanging baskets that easily hook onto the upper shelves to double up on storage. Or some stackable shelf racks to maximise vertical space. 

Need some more ideas for storage? Read our tips on storage solutions for small spaces.