DIY Network

Under Stairs Closet Learn how to convert wasted space under your stairs into valuable extra storage. From "Wasted Spaces" episode DWSP-101

(Continued from page 1)

	The white lines indicate where the wall will be cut out...
	and this Wasted Spaces animation reveals the layout of the project, which includes cutting down the air vent, creating a hinged bench with an alcove and a pullout drawer.

Materials:

metal cutting blade
2 x 4 lumber
3/4" birch plywood
screws
paint
paintbrush
paint trays
storage bins
door pull
air register cover
foil duct tape

Tools:

chalk line
hammer
safety glasses
reciprocating saw
metal cutting blade
screw gun
wood glue
jig saw
leather gloves
pencils
miter saw

Paint Colors:

Benjamin Moore # 1322 Ladybug Red 1 gallon semi-gloss

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	Figure A
	Figure B

Designing the Bench

The first thing you must do is determine the use of the bench. For the Eddins family, the primary need was storage, as well as a place for the kids to sit to put on/remove shoes. Therefore, Karl Champley made a large storage bin and a bench (figure A) large enough for one adult or two small children. You may want to build a bigger bench and smaller bin, or have just the bench. You must also decide whether you want to leave any room behind the bench for storage like we did. Once you have a design in place, you can begin demolition.

Tearing Out the Wall

1. Measure the area where the built-in closet will go.

2. Before removing the wall, protect your floor by laying down carpet protectors. They will save on the clean up time and will help prevent damage to your floor.

3. Use a chalk line to mark the area you are cutting.

4. Using a utility knife, score the drywall, and the through the first sheet of drywall.

5. Hammer the drywall in between the studs.

6. After hammering, just peel off the drywall (figure B) in the area you are removing.

Tips:

• Most closets are off square, which means they may be wider in some areas than other even if they look "square" to the naked eye. It's a good idea to take multiple measurements.

• Before you demolish the wall, use a stud finder to check for wires or pipes. If you are unsure about the wiring behind a wall, or if there is duct work, consult a HVAC professional or an electrician.

Hints:

Most staircases are supported at the top and the bottom, so taking out part of the middle wall won't damage the stairs.

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RELATED PROJECTS: Organize a Closet Organization and Productivity Building a Storage Chest Table and Storage Bin

ALSO IN THIS EPISODE:
	Under Stairs Closet