---
title: "8 Other Uses for Closet Space"
date: "2015-01-06"
modified: "2015-08-18"
authors:
  - name: "Cody Calamaio"
    job_title: "Contributing Writer"
    link: "https://www.bobvila.com/authors/cody-calamaio.md"
url: "https://www.bobvila.com/slideshow/8-other-uses-for-closet-space-48347/"
categories:
  - "DIY"
tags:
  - "closets"
  - "decor"
  - "kids"
  - "Mudrooms"
  - "storage"
---

# 8 Other Uses for Closet Space

![](<https://www.bobvila.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/closet.jpeg>)

### Reading Oasis

![](<https://www.bobvila.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/cf78e9496ec81dc166b6dca318a2533c.jpg>)
*thriftydecorchick.blogspot.com*

What's one of the coolest things you can make from a spare closet? A reading nook, of course. Take a gander at this undeniably charming nook from [Thrifty Decor Chick](<https://thriftydecorchick.blogspot.com/2011/05/closet-turned-book-nook.html>). Perfect for kids, this small getaway incorporates plenty of bookshelves on the wall and offers additional storage space underneath the built-in bench.

### Out-of-Sight Office

![](<https://www.bobvila.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/e28f1da50a8d21f7dd86e21849802906.jpg>)
*gregoryhan.com*

Those who work at home know the importance of keeping the [living space separate from the office](<https://www.bobvila.com/slideshow/11-ideas-for-working-remotely-when-you-don-t-have-a-home-office-48561.md>). But if you're wary of devoting an entire bedroom to office space, tucking your desk into a closet makes for an efficient alternative. With the door removed from the hinges, even claustrophobics can work in a pint-size office.

### Sleeping Quarters

![](<https://www.bobvila.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/9a27177df7ac63b10b2486d696c7b65b.jpg>)
*thefykes.blog spot.com*

If your closet is big enough to fit a twin mattress, you have the makings for a cozy bedtime retreat. And if you decide to bunk two beds—as [this family did](<https://thefykes.blogspot.com/2008/08/one-house-outside-tennessee.html>)—you'll not only create a cool, fort-like kids' room, but you'll also leave the rest of the bedroom open for play, storage, or a homework station.

### Hidden Mudroom

![](<https://www.bobvila.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/9c2acd800f7924664560d5532ab305a6.jpg>)
*thediligentone.blog spot.com*

Mudrooms provide a barrier between the dirty outside world and your clean house. But not every home comes equipped with such a dedicated area. That's what prompted [The Diligent One](<https://thediligentone.blog%20spot.com/2012/12/mini-mudroom-reveal.html>) to clean out a hall closet and transform it into a place to hang coats, kick off shoes, and deposit backpacks and bags, creating the perfect low-budget alternative.

### Art Exhibit

![](<https://www.bobvila.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/c814a67bd2b999d4567228aa37e31fca.jpeg>)
*apartmenttherapy.com*

What do you do with an awkward closet that junks up your living room? Why not convert it into a stunning gallery! Instead of cramming who-knows-what behind closed doors, you can show off your favorite photos, prints, or coffee table books in a [decidedly uncluttered display](<https://www.bobvila.com/slideshow/dos-and-don-ts-of-arranging-a-bookshelf-47771.md>).

### Room for a Drink

![](<https://www.bobvila.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/10f00ccb70fe79cb48dc23f43374d058.jpg>)
*sweeten.com*

A closet [space under the stairs](<https://www.bobvila.com/articles/under-stairs-storage.md>) provides the ideal nook for a classy at-home bar, complete with well-stocked shelves, a countertop, and wine chiller. Opt for an open-bar policy by taking the closet door off the hinges, or keep the door intact so you can lock up the bar to keep the kids out.

### No Grownups Allowed

![](<https://www.bobvila.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/2201d2eb4293c2fc197d9efb8e1f65f3.jpg>)
*themomcreative.com*

A cozy walk-in closet is just the right size for a tiny tot's playroom and reading nook. Brightly colored walls lined with narrow bookshelves infuse the space with joy, while a [chalkboard](<https://www.bobvila.com/articles/how-to-use-chalk-paint.md>) wall allows creativity to bloom.

### Indoor Toolshed

![](<https://www.bobvila.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/3f39690daaa3e34acf6695df6087957b.jpg>)
*dirkdenisonarchitects.com*

Tools don’t have to be [exiled to the garage](<https://www.bobvila.com/articles/best-garage-storage-systems.md>). Instead, transform a closet into an organized toolshed, any handy homeowner's dream. Your favorite tools will be easily accessible for quick household fixes, and easily stored afterward.

## Author
With a background in newspaper reporting, and with editorial stints at [This Old House](<https://www.thisoldhouse.com>) and [Contract](<https://www.contractdesign.com>) magazines, [Cody Calamaio](<https://www.codycalamaio.com>) now freelances as a designer and writer, in addition to working as a marketing professional.

### Author social links  
[LinkedIn](<https://www.linkedin.com/in/codycalamaio/>)