15 Nifty Ways To Transform An Unused Closet

And you thought Lighter Side was all fun ‘n games, huh? Nope, gotta toss you some fun tips, tricks, and “home hacks” from time to time, too. 🙂 There’s some nifty ideas in this one.

Many of us suffer from lack of closet space in our homes. However, some folks are living with the exact opposite “problem” — an over-abundance of dead space (aka, unused closets). If so, here are 14 potential closet hacks to maximize your space.

1. Make a hip “homework haven”

Apply a coat of chalkboard paint, and if your child needs help with their homework, use the wallspace as a chalkboard. Get the tutorial here.

2. Design a hideout for your kid

Cut out a foam mattress pad to fit the the closet floor. Throw in some cushy pillows, line shelves with books, and create soft lighting. Find the full tutorial here.

3. Create a canopy bed

Remove closet doors and simply nudge crib against the inside wall. Perfect for kids who share a room.

4. Set up a mini-workshop

Create a permanent home for your bulky sewing machine or other household tools. Learn how to make a DIY pegboard here.

5. Design a hideaway office

Interior designer Killy Scheer created a hip, space-saving office that disappears with the tug of a curtain.

6. Make extra seating

To maximize playroom space, transform the closet into a seating nook for kids. Get the full tutorial here.

7. Create a changing station

Save space in the nursery by placing bulky furniture inside the closet. Get the full tutorial here.

8. Create a bright & open (yet out-of-the-way) workspace

Set up shop in the sunniest room in the house, and save space in the process by opening the closet doors and positioning a small desk that fits perfectly into the allotted space.

9. Design a double-duty reading nook on the fly

For a quick home project, place pillows and a furry rug (like this one from Ikea) on the closet floor. Draw the curtain back and create a cozy reading space for kids. Keep clothes hanging. Get the full tutorial here.

10. Display your artwork

Lacking wall space? Utilize the closet as to showcase your artwork. Roll a coat of paint to create an accent wall, and use the rear wall to display framed photos and other art.

11. Create a sleeping nook

Move your bed into the closet (or purchase a smaller one if it doesn’t fit). If necissary, ditch the headboard and snag some bed legs (like these from Ikea; $20).

12. Turn it into a bar

Either install countertops or use a marble-topped desk in an irregularly-shaped closet for a modern wet bar. Add two stools so guests can pour, sit, and chat.

13. Transform it into a wine cellar

Install a wine refrigerator or simply stack a few wine racks (like these from Walmart; $65 each) to store your vino.

14. Create a mini laundromat

Remove closet doors for extra space that can accommodate a washer, dryer, and shelves. You’ll likely need to hire a plumber to install the necessary water lines, and an electrician to upgrade your wiring.