Interior designers across India are championing a revolutionary approach to home design, transforming neglected nooks and forgotten corners into stylish, functional spaces that maximize every square foot. From under-stair storage solutions to cozy reading pods, these creative professionals are proving that even the most awkward spaces can become the most cherished areas of a home.
The space beneath staircases, known as the spandrel, has emerged as a particular focus for innovative design solutions. While many homeowners might envision Harry Potter's cramped cupboard under the Dursleys' stairs, contemporary designers see untapped potential for creating everything from sleek mini-offices to serene meditation nooks. "Every corner can tell a story if you let it," explains Keerthika Surenthar, co-founder of The Design Shop. "A curated display of travel memories, plants, or a softly lit art niche can make the under-stair space feel intimate and personal."
Design professionals are approaching these challenging spaces with both functional and emotional considerations in mind. Surenthar emphasizes that while spaces can be designed purely for utility, they also present opportunities to add personality and joy to homes. Her suggested uses include storage cupboards, toy racks, and peaceful meditation areas, all while maintaining a careful balance between practicality and emotional connection.
Swathi and Sharath Kumar, founders and chief architects of Reflection Matters, advocate for treating small spaces with intention and imagination rather than dismissing them as unused corners. In their recent projects, they transformed one under-stair area into a dual-purpose study and music corner for a child, complete with soft ambient lighting. Another project featured a showcase unit with integrated secret storage. "These spaces can be used for prayer nooks, mini libraries, pet zones, or reading pods – proof that the most successful designs are shaped by how homeowners truly live," Swathi notes.
While some designers favor subtle approaches, others lean heavily on efficiency and modular design principles. Mohammed Salman, co-founder of Tint Tone & Shade and interior design content creator, offers practical suggestions for under-stair transformations. "The under-stair space can be adapted in many ways: a compact study or workspace, a shoe rack or storage area, a crockery unit, or a cozy reading nook with throw pillows," he explains. "The key is to ensure sufficient headroom so it's both practical and comfortable."
Nivas R, Civil & Interior Engineer at Sperenza Interiors, complements this efficiency-focused approach by emphasizing the importance of maximizing every inch. His favorite solutions include open bookshelves and built-in storage with pull-out drawers for utilities. "Keeping things open and accessible makes the room look larger and more organized," he advises. He strongly cautions homeowners against cluttering spaces with oversized furniture or elaborate décor, warning that such choices can make even well-planned rooms feel cramped.
Material selection and color choices play crucial roles in how compact spaces feel and function. Surenthar recommends natural materials such as oak wood, ash wood, cane, linen, and muted lime finishes to evoke a sense of calmness. "Multi-functional furniture such as floating consoles or foldaway tables can make a space feel grounded yet flexible," she notes. Swathi emphasizes the importance of visual openness and layered lighting in small rooms. "I use task, ambient, and accent lights in layers to add depth. Combined with mirrors and pastel tones, they create a sense of openness and brightness," she explains, stressing that every element must justify its presence by being functional.
Salman reinforces the importance of multipurpose furniture, highlighting items like beds with drawers, wall-mounted desks, and storage ottomans. He maintains that function should always take precedence, with style enhancing rather than competing with practicality. Nivas adds another dimension by focusing on efficiency and safety considerations. "Opt for rounded-edge furniture to prevent bumps, choose washable, stain-resistant fabrics, and incorporate multifunctional storage to keep clutter minimal," he advises.
Lighting and ventilation emerge as common themes across all design philosophies. Uthresh M, co-founder of Studio Scripted Aesthetics, emphasizes the importance of natural light. "Allowing natural sunlight to come in makes a space feel connected to the environment. Even if you want privacy, clerestory windows can bring in light without compromising comfort," he explains.
Innovative real-world applications demonstrate the versatility of these design principles. Uthresh recalls transforming one under-stair space into a playful jumping pit for children, while another project featured a pet-friendly corner designed specifically for the homeowners' parrot, fish tanks, and cat. In yet another house, the mid-landing of a staircase became a functional breakfast counter, with the space beneath serving as storage for kitchen utilities. "Traditionally, people go for landscaping or just dump their inverter there, but you can also use it creatively," he observes.
For Salman, small-space efficiency remains paramount. He transforms awkward corners into charming feature spaces using pebbles, plants, and subtle lighting to create mini indoor landscapes, always ensuring careful planning prevents the space from feeling cramped. Surenthar adds emotional depth to these practical considerations: "A daybed can serve as a reading corner by day and an extra bed for guests by night. Thoughtful integration keeps a space stylish and emotionally connected."
Modular design concepts tie many of these innovative approaches together. Murphy beds, fold-out desks, and wall-mounted shelves have become essential components of small-space living. "Sliding walls, foldaway workstations, storage-integrated cots, and movable partitions let a single room serve multiple functions," Uthresh explains. Swathi takes this concept further with multi-purpose furniture that adapts throughout the day: "In one of our projects, a compact zone seamlessly functioned as a dressing unit, work table, and movable seating area. The best small-space furniture doesn't just save space; it transforms with the user's lifestyle."
The industry shows interesting divisions between high-tech solutions and traditional approaches. While some designers like Nivas and Uthresh embrace automation and modular systems for maximum efficiency, others prioritize emotional warmth and tactile experiences. "Lighting, fans, and curtains were fully automated using voice control. Hidden storage inside walls and under seating keeps the room clutter-free," Nivas explains. However, both approaches demonstrate that there's no single formula for successful small-space design – only infinite interpretations of creativity.
Current trends in small-space living increasingly blend sustainability with adaptability. Modular furniture, concealed storage, and open layouts continue gaining popularity among homeowners. Salman observes that contemporary styles incorporating traditional touches, along with tropical and coastal themes, are particularly trending. Both Surenthar and Uthresh stress the importance of sustainable materials like reclaimed wood, bamboo, and energy-efficient LEDs. Uthresh also employs structural techniques such as rat-trap brick bonds and infill slabs to enhance thermal comfort in small spaces.
Swathi reinforces the fundamental principle underlying all successful small-space design: "Small spaces work best when every decision is measured, intentional, and aligned with how the space will truly be used." The consensus among these design professionals remains that experimentation and creativity are essential keys to success.
Ultimately, these designers prove that a well-designed nook represents far more than leftover space – it becomes a reflection of imagination and thoughtful planning. Whether transformed into a reading pod, hidden bar, pet playground, or hybrid workspace, every under-stair spandrel and forgotten corner holds potential for becoming a charming, efficient retreat. As Surenthar eloquently states, "The smallest corners often carry the most soul." Swathi adds the perfect complement: "When practicality is thoughtfully resolved, style doesn't have to fight for space."
