In many homes, whether in the living room, hallways, or bedrooms, empty corners are a common sight. These are often overlooked and left bare, with some people having no idea what to do with them. However, with a bit of creativity and thought, you might be surprised at the potential that these unused spaces hold.
When you transform an empty corner, it does more than just fill space—it also lets you add style and functionality to your home. From enhancing storage options to creating a cosy nook, making the most of these corners can help you maximise every inch of your home. Best of all, these small changes can bring a sense of balance and harmony.
With that in mind, consider these ideas to help you turn those empty corners into practical and stylish parts of your home:
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Create a Gallery Wall
A gallery wall is an ideal solution for a corner that needs a touch of character. You can fill the space with a carefully curated selection of artwork, photographs, or art prints, turning a blank wall into an eye-catching display. To achieve a cohesive look, choose a unifying element. It can be a particular colour scheme, frame style, or theme like travel or nature.
When planning your gallery wall, start with a central piece and build outwards. Consider using a mixture of picture frame sizes and shapes to add visual interest. It’s also a good idea to balance framed prints with other types of artwork, such as small sculptures or wall hangings, to bring a more dynamic feel to the arrangement.
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Add Storage Solutions
An empty corner can also be the perfect spot to incorporate much-needed storage. You can install built-in or floating corner shelves and use them to display items like books, decorative objects, or mementos. Alternatively, a corner cabinet or storage unit can provide a discreet yet stylish way to keep clutter at bay.
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Install a Bookshelf
Another way to utilise an empty corner is to install bookshelves. These can be a practical solution, particularly if you love reading or want to display your collection of decorative objects. While corner bookshelves are designed specifically to fit snugly into the space, you can also opt for tall, ladder-style shelves to make use of vertical space.
As a recommendation, arrange your books by colour or size to create a more organised and visually appealing display. Beyond books, consider mixing in other items like candles or photo frames to break up the visual flow and prevent the shelf from looking too heavy.
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Design a Cosy Reading Nook
Speaking of bookshelves, if you’re looking for a quiet corner to escape to, transforming an empty space into a cosy reading nook is a perfect option. Start with a comfortable armchair or a soft, cushioned bench to anchor the space. Then, add a few plush cushions and a throw blanket for extra warmth and comfort. If there’s still some room, you can add a small side table where you can place your current book or a hot cup of tea. You can also consider adding a small rug under the chair to define the area and make it feel more like its own separate, cosy retreat.
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Custom-Fit a Workstation
If you have a work-from-home job or have a flexible working arrangement, having a dedicated work space is important. In this case, an empty corner can easily be converted into a home office or study area. Start by selecting a compact desk that fits neatly into the corner. Also, look for multifunctional furniture, such as desks with built-in storage, to keep your workspace tidy. A comfortable chair is just as essential, especially for long hours of work. Additionally, you can install floating shelves above the desk to store office supplies or display inspiring items.
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Incorporate Plants or Greenery
Bringing nature into your home is always a good idea, and corners are a great place to display live indoor plants that can soften the space and add a fresh, natural element to your decor. Consider adding tall plants like fiddle leaf figs or monstera plants to fill empty corners or a group of smaller plants on corner shelves. When arranging this little spot of green in your home, try grouping plants of different heights and sizes together for an eye-catching display. You can also use plant stands of varying heights to add dimension and create a layered effect with your plants.
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Add a Decorative Mirror
Another thing you can do with empty corners in your home is to add a mirror. It’s an easy way to bounce light around the room, which creates the illusion of more space. When choosing a mirror, consider a large floor mirror and use it as a statement piece that enhances the room’s sense of depth. In contrast, smaller, decorative mirrors can add charm and elegance. Either way, adding a reflective element to an empty corner can make any room feel larger and brighter.
The empty corners in your home don’t have to be wasted space. With a little creativity, they can become some of the most practical and beautiful areas of your home. Try any of these suggestions and transform a space. When you make the most of these often-overlooked spaces, you can enhance your home’s style while adding value and personalisation.