13 decorating ideas for awkward empty spaces in the home

12 Oct.,2022

 

how to decorate an empty room

Transform an unused or awkward space in your home into something special.

Everyone has that spot in their home – under the stairs , in a corner, at the end of hallway – that they don't quite know what to do with. Leave it bare and it looks like something's missing or fill it with whatever spare furniture you have lying around and run the risk of a decorating disaster.

These tricky spaces require careful consideration or, in some cases, an expert's opinion, in order to make the most out this unused area and transform it into either a practical or decorative feature – or both, if you're lucky!

From bar carts to bench seats and smart study nooks , here are some clever ways to fill the void in your unfinished home.

1. Statement chair

A statement chair instantly creates a practical and stylish place for you to put shoes on or wait for your partner to get ready. Add a plant or lamp, if you like.

bouclé chair and vintage-inspired reading lamp create a homely corner in Cultiver's flagship store in Mosman.

2. Home library

When stuck for ideas don't forget a good built in but open bookcase can do wonders; creating a dynamic range of colourful spines and at the same time working extremely well as a sound absorber. A book-laden home always looks very appealing.

3. Home office

Make use of dead space and set up a home office . All you need is a comfy chair and desk that fits into your nook. Hang shelves above for extra storage.

Who says you need a spare room to create a home office? This new-build Newcastle home has turns an empty hallway into an ideal office. Photographer: The Palm Co, Candice Saville

4. Under the stairs

That awkward space under the stairs isn't just for Harry Potter. Make the most of this unassuming yet valuable real estate by transforming it into a study space or home library . Much more useful than a bedroom for an imaginary wizard, don't you think?

5. Indoor plants

Indoor plants are a godsend for filling voids in the home. You can pretty much squeeze a plant into any vacant spot – beside your bed, on top of bookshelves and, of course, in empty corners. And they won't just fill a space, indoor plants will bring any dead zone to life – trusting you can keep them alive.Being surrounded by her favourite plants and blooms is what brings this jet-setting owner of this Milan apartment down to earth. Photographer: Valentina Sommariva | Living Inside

6. Ornaments and artefacts

Another method that works well to fill empty corners are long thin objects that can be casually leaned into the corner. These may include vintage oars or artefacts such as statues, spears and masks. Not your style? How about a styled stack of magazines or books?

7. Striking vignette

Create a striking display or vignette on a shelving unit or narrow console using books and vessels or everyday items like books, vases and artwork.

A carefully considered display creates a warm welcome in the entryway of this Northern Beaches home in Sydney. Photographer: Kristina Soljo | Styling: Natalie Johnson

8. Lighting

Bare spaces are often the perfect location for a tall floor light or a substantial floor standing sculptural object. Consider some edgier ideas like a conceptual lighting piece made from a cluster of neon tubes.

9. High ceilings

A more challenging dead space is found in houses with very high ceilings. Often the space between the tops of furniture and the ceiling are so great that there is a great deal of empty space. Artwork can usually do the trick here; either a large scale work or a grouping of smaller works.

The soaring gable roof of this minimalist Sorrento home required hours of planning and "countless 3D models" to perfect it. Photographer: Rory Gardiner | Styling: Jess Kneebone

9. Bar cart

Bar carts are all the rage right now and can be easily tucked into a tight corner or along the blank wall beside your dining table. Not only will a beautifully-styled bar cart amplify your interior, it will also make entertaining a breeze! Did someone say "happy hour"?

10. Windows

Putting in a window where a blank wall would be is a smart design decision, assuming that it doesn't affect your privacy. Not only will you amplify the natural light in your home you may be lucky enough to create a beautiful outlook.

Rectilinear windows frame views of greenery, balanced by a vibrant abstract painting by Tessa Dodds. Photographer: Martina Gemmola

11. Bench seat

What to do with that blank wall or unused space under a window? We have two words for you: bench seat. Whether it's a custom built day bed or a stylish store-bought seat, adding an extra spot to retreat and relax in your home is not something you will regret.

13. Wall hooks

While bare walls can be brought to life with artwork, they can also be turned into a source of storage. Enter, wall hooks. Decorative designs like these timber dots are pretty and practical, providing a handy place to hang bags, coats or whatever you please. This is an especially good idea for entryways

A set of Muuto "Dots" wall hooks create the perfect grab-and-go storage at the front door of this coastal weatherboard home in Byron Bay. Photographer: Maree Homer | Styling: Kristin Rawson