When you’re hunting for extra space in your house, every square meter counts. Often overlooked, the area under the staircase can provide a wealth of storage opportunities. It’s time to take advantage of this hidden gem and transform it into a functional, aesthetically pleasing space. This article will guide you on how to design a space-saving under-stairs indoor garden in the UK townhouse you call home.
Assessing the Under Stairs Space
Before you start your design process, it’s crucial to assess the space under your stairs. The shape and size of your staircase will determine the type of garden you can create.
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Start by measuring the height, width, and depth of the space. Remember to take note of any wall sockets, pipes, or other obstructions. This information will guide you in choosing appropriate plants and deciding on the best layout for your garden.
Next, consider the light exposure. Most indoor gardens require a fair amount of natural light. If your staircase isn’t located near a window, you may need to install artificial lighting.
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Finally, think about access. If your staircase is high-traffic, your garden needs to be designed in a way that it won’t be easily damaged, yet still visually appealing.
Choosing the Right Plants
The types of plants you choose for your under-stairs garden will depend on the conditions of the space and your personal preferences.
If your area has plenty of natural light, consider low-maintenance, light-loving plants like Peace Lilies or Spider Plants. For darker spaces, opt for shade-tolerant species like Snake Plants or ZZ plants.
Remember, different plants require different care. Some need more watering and attention than others. Choose plants that you’re confident you can look after properly.
Lastly, bear in mind that some plants can grow quite large. Make sure you’re aware of the expected growth size before making your decision.
Designing Your Under Stairs Garden
Now that you have an understanding of your space and have selected your plants, it’s time to start designing.
First, decide whether you want a built-in or freestanding garden. A built-in design will require more work but will offer a more seamless look. Alternatively, a freestanding design allows for flexibility and easy changes.
Next, create a layout. Consider how you’ll arrange your plants and what kind of containers you’ll use. Would you prefer a symmetrical design or something more organic and free-flowing?
Once you’ve decided on a layout, it’s time to choose your storage. A simple shelf can work well for small pots, while a custom-built planter may be needed for larger plants or a built-in design.
Building Your Indoor Garden
With your design complete, it’s now time to build your garden.
If you’ve chosen a freestanding design, you can start by installing shelves or buying ready-made planters. For a built-in design, you may need to engage a professional, unless you’re confident in your DIY skills.
Remember to account for drainage. Many indoor plants don’t like to sit in water, so make sure your planters have holes at the bottom, and consider adding a layer of pebbles or charcoal to help with this. You’ll also need a drip tray or similar to catch any excess water.
Once your storage is in place, you can begin adding your plants. Start with the largest ones first, then fill in the gaps with your smaller plants.
Caring for Your Under Stairs Garden
The key to a successful under stairs garden is regular care. This includes watering, feeding, and pruning your plants.
Plants in small pots will dry out quicker than those in larger pots, so check the soil regularly. If it feels dry to the touch, it’s time to water. Overwatering can be just as harmful as underwatering, so be careful not to drench the soil.
Pruning is also essential to keep your plants looking their best. Regularly remove dead leaves and branches, and trim back any growth that’s becoming too large for the space.
In conclusion, an under stairs garden can be a beautiful and functional addition to your UK townhome. With careful planning, the right plants, and regular care, you can transform this often overlooked space into a beautiful indoor garden oasis.
Maximising Space: Practical Tips for Under Stairs Garden Design
Making the most of your under stairs space in a clever and functional way can create a striking focal point in your home. However, designing a small garden in such a unique area requires careful planning and creativity.
Firstly, ensure your design is practical and convenient for daily use. If your under stair area is near your living room or kitchen, consider your garden’s impact on these spaces. Plants should not obstruct walking paths or take up extra room.
For a seamless look, think about the colour scheme and aesthetic of your existing décor. An earthy, minimalist theme can work well for a small garden, with neutral tones and natural materials to complement your plants.
Storage can make or break your under stairs garden design. It’s not just about the aesthetic appeal, but also about its functionality. Using the right type of stairs storage solutions like built-in shelving or custom planters can make your daily gardening tasks easier.
Remember to utilise vertical space. Hanging plants or installing floating shelves can create an illusion of a bigger garden while keeping the floor area clear.
Lastly, consider your garden’s visibility. Do you want it to be the main feature in your home, or would you prefer it tucked away? This can influence the type of plants you choose and the overall design of your garden.
Final Thoughts: The Beauty of an Under Stairs Indoor Garden
Creating a small garden under your staircase can transform an otherwise overlooked area into a beautiful green oasis. Not only does it add a touch of nature to your home, but it also utilises space that might otherwise go to waste.
Remember, designing an under stairs indoor garden in a UK townhome doesn’t have to be a daunting task. It’s all about knowing your space, choosing the right plants, and creating a design that aligns with your personal style and the overall aesthetic of your home.
Working on this exciting project could even inspire you to explore more creative interior design ideas. Who knows, your next project could be transforming an unused closet into a wine cellar, or turning a spare bedroom into a home office.
So, go ahead and start planning your under stairs garden. Happy gardening!
Image credit: Future plc
Note: This post originally appeared on our UK site and has been updated for our global audience. All rights and image credits are reserved to Future plc.
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Build Under Stairs Storage Solutions: A Step-by-step Guide
Looking for more clever ways to use the space under your stairs? Check out our guide on how to build under stairs storage solutions. Whether it’s a bookshelf, a shoe rack, or a wine cellar, we’ve got you covered. Continue reading on our website.
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