Cost-Saving Built-In Storage Ideas

A small alcove previously considered dead space is now a storage-packed focal point, thanks to a clever use of ready-made wooden cabinets, floating shelves and integrated LED lighting. Follow these tips to create your own budget-friendly built-in storage area.

Unfinished, ready-made wooden cabinets are an excellent choice for low-budget built-in storage solutions. Readily available in standard sizes, they can be customized with paint or stain and dressed up with hardware. To ensure a smooth finish, lightly sand the wood prior to priming or painting. For a seamless look, use the same shade of paint found on any existing trim, cabinet doors or drawer fronts.

Floating shelves installed directly above painted ready-made cabinets can instantly turn dead space into a streamlined architectural focal point. Available in a range of lengths and thicknesses, floating shelves are attached directly to the wall with cleats fastened into the studs. Once the cleats are sturdy, a three-sided box is slid onto them, then secured in place with screws drilled up through fascia and into the cleat.

When styling floating shelves, don’t be afraid to mix shapes, heights, textures and materials to turn disparate objects into a well-curated collection.