Transforming Under Stairs Dead Space into an Epic Kids‘ Playroom

Got an unused cavity under your stairs? Don‘t let it go to waste! This awkward area can become the ultimate playroom for kids. As a home renovation pro, I‘ve helped dozens of families convert under stair cubbies into fully-customized play spaces. Read on as I walk you through how to plan, build, and design the playroom of your kid‘s dreams!

Size Up the Space

The first step is assessing what you‘re working with. Pop your head into the under stairs void and take some measurements:

• Width & depth – note angled walls and clearance around beams
• Height from floor to ceiling – watch for hanging beams and ductwork
• Total square footage – calculate usable layout space

Access is also key. If there‘s no existing doorway, you‘ll need to factor in installation. Standard doors are 30-32 inches wide. Measure thoroughly and create a detailed floorplan for planning.

Know Your Local Building Codes

Converting under stairs space requires permits in most cases. Building codes protect safety, so compliance is essential. Requirements vary by location, but often cover:

• Minimum ceiling height (typically 6.5 – 7 feet)
• Fire prevention like smoke detectors and fire-rated drywall
• Ventilation and humidity control standards
• Electric, water, and HVAC hookups

Work with your local permitting office early. We‘ve seen homeowners slapped with violations for skipping this step, so don‘t take shortcuts!

Structural Considerations

Under stair spaces support a lot of weight from above. You may need to reinforce:

• Flooring – Add 3/4 inch plywood over concrete for strength. The thicker the better.
• Walls – Frame out stud walls if finishing with drywall. Use metal studs for power.
• Ceiling – Sister or replace sagging joists and install blocking between beams.

Inspect for sagging, moisture damage or cracking. A structural engineer can advise on necessary fixes to bear weight. Load bearing walls in adjoining rooms can‘t be altered.

Flooring That Fits Play

Kid-friendly floors should be soft yet durable. Top choices include:

Carpet Tiles

• Low pile is safest for playrooms. Tiles limit damage if accidents occur.
• Cost: $1 – $5 per square foot installed.
• Consider moisture resistant tiles for below grade rooms.

Foam Floor Mats

• Interlocking, cushioned tiles limit injuries from falls.
• Noise reducing. Also help insulate cold concrete floors.
• Cost: $1 – $3 per square foot.

Vinyl Plank Flooring

• Affordable, waterproof and easy to clean. Withstands heavy activity.
• Sheet or plank style. Floats over uneven subfloors.
• Cost: $2 – $4 per square foot installed.

Laminate Flooring

• Mimics wood but resists scratches at a lower cost.
• Not moisture friendly. Avoid if below grade or in laundry rooms.
• Cost: $2 – $5 per square foot installed.

Pro tip: Area rugs add extra cushioning and warmth over tile or vinyl.

Lighting Sets the Mood

Imaginative play needs bright, cheery light. Combine:

Natural Light

• Windows or skylights keep things fresh and inviting if outdoor access allows.
• Savings from reduced artificial lighting needs.

General Lighting

• Recessed LED fixtures provide full room illumination safely.
• Space evenly at 10‘ intervals for uniform lighting.

Accent Lighting

• Use directional fixtures over reading nooks and activity spots.
• Wall sconces add playful glow for imaginary fun.
• Rope lights or lantern strands create a whimsical feel.

Emergency Lighting

• Night lights prevent dark walkways and panic.
• Motion sensor step lights prevent tripping on stairs.
• Glow-in-the-dark decals help guide exit routes.

Vents and Doors for Safety

Cover the basics of airflow and access:

Ventilation

• Prevent mold buildup with vents or fans. Dehumidifiers also help.
• Look for HVAC diffusers that prevent dust accumulation.

Doors

• Pocket, bi-fold and dutch doors provide compact access.
• Barn style doors slide open saving precious square footage.
• Use child proof locks and alarms for safety and privacy.

Emergency Exits

• Windows should be operable in case of fire. Security locks keep kids safe.
• If space allows, add a bilco egress door directly outside.
• Smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are legally required.

Childproofing Your Playroom

Make safety the #1 priority with these tips:

• Use rounded corners on built-ins and furniture. Foam guards prevent boo-boos.
• Check for lead paint – common in older homes. Test kits are available.
• Look for sharp points, edges or rusty nails anywhere little fingers may reach.
• Install tamper-resistant outlets with shutters that prevent poking.
• Mount TVs and shelves securely to studs to prevent tipping accidents.
• Beware of choking hazards from small toys and supervise play for little ones.
• Store art supplies or hobby chemicals up high in locked cabinets.

Creative Storage for Endless Play Options

Maximize every inch to corral toys, art supplies, costumes and gear:

Under Stair Storage

• Build cabinets or cubbies into side walls and risers.
• Optimize awkward angled spots under steps.
• Use rolling bins or baskets for easy access.

Wall Storage

• Mount shelving and cabinets at kids‘ height for independence.
• Floating shelves work on uneven walls.
• Add racks or hooks for hanging costumes, instruments or sports gear.

Furniture Storage

• Thrift store cabinets and dressers hold tons of stuff. Paint for charm.
• Benches and ottomans with lift-up seats double as storage.
• Bookcases with baskets keep books and toys organized.

Creative Playroom Decor

Add special touches to spark imagination and fun:

Paint

• Chalkboard paint for doodling on walls
• Vibrant colors like aqua, lime or orange
• Murals featuring jungles, galaxies or undersea worlds

Lighting

• Twinkle lights or lanterns for tent forts
• Star constellation projectors create magical ambiance
• Glow in the dark decals on walls and ceilings

Accessories

• Posters, maps and artwork of kid‘s interests
• Life-size cardboard fort, rocketship or princess castle
• Imaginative wall decals like clouds, trees or brick walls

Furnish Their Fantasy Space

Furnishings make the room complete. Prioritize comfort and durability:

Seating and Beds

• Durable microfiber or leather sofas
• Pile pillows and floor cushions for lounging
• Fold-out sofa beds for movie nights or sleepovers

Storage and Surfaces

• Plastic stacking storage bins organize legos, dolls, cars, etc.
• Activity table or desk surrounded by storage cubbies
• Low open shelving for easy access to toys

Floor Coverings

• Thick pile area rugs over tile or wood
• Foam mats for tumbling or building forts
• Faux fur rugs add luxurious texture

Under Stairs Playroom Inspiration

To spark additional ideas, here are some real-world examples of under stair playrooms I‘ve designed:

Nature Theme

• Forest mural and woven wood accents
• Tree branch coat hooks and root-shaped shelves
• Reading nook with faux fur rug and lantern lighting

Science Lab

• Chalkboard walls, dry erase desk
• Wall of floating shelving displays rocks, shells, science kits
• Telescope by space mural for moon observations

Creative Arts Studio

• Gallery style picture ledges display artwork
• Rainbow color scheme with painted piano
• Easel, art supplies, sculpting clay tools

Indoor Mountain Retreat

• Mountaineering mural with LED projected "fireplace"
• Rope hammock chair and LED string lights
• Faux leather recliner facing "mountain"

Make It Amazing on Any Budget

The cost to convert under stairs space runs $2,500 to $5,000 on average. Pricing depends on factors like:

• Scope of work – structural changes, finishes and built-ins add expense
• Quality of materials – budget vs premium flooring, lighting, etc
• DIY labor vs hiring contractors – pros charge $50-$100 per hour

Here‘s a sample midpoint budget:

Item	Cost
Building materials/supplies	$700
Drywall, mudding/taping	$350
Painting	$300
New door/doorway	$400
Lighting	$250
Flooring	$500
Decor (murals, accessories)	$500
Cabinetry/shelving	$1,000
Total	$4,000

Save where you can – check thrift stores and Facebook Marketplace for furniture scores. Prioritize classic toys and activities over trendy tech to extend use.

Maximize Play and Minimize Costs: DIY or Hire Out?

Securing permits, framing, drywall, flooring, lighting, doors and finishes can be manageable DIY projects if you‘re experienced. But know your limits:

Consider DIY for:

• Demolition of non load-bearing walls
• Basic framing and drywall
• Painting and decor
• Assembling ready-made furniture
• Cabinetry with pre-fab kits

Seeking pros is wise for:

• Structural changes like moving walls or ceilings
• Major electrical and plumbing work
• HVAC, ventilation and dehumidifying systems
• Complex built-in shelving or storage
• Custom cabinetry and carpentry work

Bottom line – safety first! Handling complex wiring, gas lines, or load-bearing changes yourself risks disaster.

Top Mistakes to Avoid

After completing dozens of playroom projects, a few key pitfalls stand out:

Rushing structural reinforcements – Don‘t underestimate needed framing and repairs.

Skipping ventilation – Prevent mold/mildew with fans or dehumidifiers.

No child locks – Toddlers will find every unsecured drawer and door.

Insufficient storage – No such thing as too much! Kids accumulate "stuff".

Dark lighting – The space needs to feel bright and airy, not like a dungeon.

Bad noise insulation – Cushion floors and use sound dampening drywall to reduce noise.

Ignoring safety issues – Address any lead paint or hazards thoroughly.

Not getting permits – Failure to comply with building codes can be costly.

Save yourself headaches and create a playroom that will provide years of joy for the whole family. Need a hand getting started? I‘m always available to consult on your under stairs playroom conversion!

The Takeaway: DIY Dream Playroom

What once was a cluttered storage space can become a beloved place for creativity and play. Whether you‘re working with a few square feet or a hundred, the under stairs playroom possibilities are endless. Apply the tips in this guide to craft a cozy kids‘ oasis customized to your family. Soon you‘ll be hosting hours of imaginations and adventures right at home!