When I first moved into my home I had no idea what I was going to do with this odd space in my home aka an Alcove, Niche, Nook etc. It was all the way in the corner and on a slanted cornered slope. It definitely created a awkward living room layout even with the most creative room arrangements I could imagine. I accepted the challenge for this odd space living room design and began searching for wall alcoves ideas and how to make them work, but found nothing like this one.
The photo below is how the previous tenants arranged it. This layout wasn’t going to work for me. Putting a television there is weird being the space is too far away from the seating area, versus facing it, this would put a strain on my eyes. I got creative and figured it out!
Continue to read more on how you can jump start your creativity with that awkward space in your home: Nooks, Niches, Alcoves, Corner Spaces And How I Made Mine Work For Me.
I decided to place the television above the fireplace. Then get even more creative on how I was going to hide the wiring, since I despise the site of electrical cords.
Installing the Television and Components
I had my television installed professionally as shown below amongst the clutter. I had the tech include longer cords to connect my cable box, modem, power cords and additional HDMI which I could later use for a DVD player. He also connected the sound bar shown below the television. So in the photo below, you can kinda tell where the cords go in behind the tv and come out about 8 inches above the floor.
All I needed to do was connect my Firestick which attaches on the side of the tv via HDMI and the power cord was already ran from the wall. All power cords were plugged into a surge protector that also has USB ports.
If you look closer in the awkward space below, you’ll my fur-baby Jujube already claimed that space as her own LOL.
Defining My Vision For My Slanted Nook
The first step in designing your odd space at home is defining your purpose and vision for the space keeping the measurements in mind.
Since my dog (Jujube) in the photo above already had claimed her space in our new place, I obliged to her wishes. So I began a search for a Doggy Dorm and small wall furniture such as a small accent cabinet that would fit in this space. The accent cabinet would have to be thrifted or inexpensive so that I’d feel good about drilling a hole in the back of it for the cords. Inside I would keep the cable modem, surge protector, DVD’s etc. You can probably fit more depending on what you find.
I found an expandable Doggy Dorm with a divider so both Jujube and Chico would have their own space. They are both senior dogs and get grumpy after while, so they require their own living quarters. This Expandable Dog Crate by Richell in size small, actually expands all the way out to take up almost the entire space, but I have small dogs, so didn’t need to. It has two doors and the divider is sold separately.
I later found this small champage color Alameda Accent Cabinet on Wayfair for $130 after using a coupon. In the photo below I’m virtually seeing how it looks in my room before purchasing it. It looks almost real, right! Accent cabinets are inexpensive and small in size. You can also check Marketplace or Offer Up for a preowned accent cabinet. You’ll find several for close to $100 on Wayfair, Overstock, and Amazon.
Wayfair no longer sell this Alameda brand. However, I have seen the exact accent cabinet being sold under other brands for almost triple what I paid…so that’s why there is no link. Arlo Interiors makes same model for almost twice as much.
While waiting for the delivery of my accent cabinet, I painted the Doggy Dorm with Champagne Spray paint to match the champagne accent cabinet. I used this same paint on a filing cabinet also posted here.
I removed the dark block shelf in the photo above. After researching home corner decoration ideas, I purchased two glass shelves from Amazon to compliment the slanted wall.
Once the accent cabinet arrived I drilled a medium size hole in the bottom right for the power cords using the 2 1/8 hole saw drill bit in the photo below. This can easily be repaired with paint and the cut out circle later but…it’s already hidden so just block it with something cute if you ever decided to use the accent cable for another purpose.
I purchased a metal basket to place on the wall behind the accent cabinet near where the cords were coming out of the wall. The cords and equipment are hidden inside the accent cabinet and in the basket. This basket was under $15 and is strong enough to hold multiple devices and helps me seamlessly hide the cords. If my modem was smaller, I could fit it inside the accent cabinet. This option of concealing it inside the cabinet may or may not block the signal of your modem.
Final look of my Odd Space
This space could also serve as an office nook, or a place to showcase your plants, photography or photo tiles. Consider adding floating shelves or even have a bar built with custom shelving, cabinet and lighting. Low on storage? Add a armoire, chest or have storage designed and built. If you don’t have a fireplace, take measurements of your space and get a fancy portable fireplace. The possibilities are truly endless.
My space also becomes a nice space for my Christmas tree and decor. My dogs actually have two doggy dorms. The other is on the opposite side of the room, so this is a nice space to decorate based on the seasons too which is why I refer to it as the Odd Space In…it is definitely IN and has become one of my favorite versatile spaces in my home.
Other Ideas for similar Nooks
Styling a nook can be as simple as you choose to make it. Most importantly have fun tapping into your creativity even if it means starting one piece at a time and styling around your statement piece while sticking to your purpose or even multi-purpose for the space.
If you have a space underneath your stairs, there are so many creative ideas. A friend of mine created a fabulous feline den for her cat. Turning it into a entire library is ideal as well such as this photo below. Hire a professional to build custom shelving for a conveniently located library. Find professionals on Angi’s list, Thumbtack or TaskRabbit. TaskRabbit and Thumbtack guarantee the work.
This simplistic bar nook below is one of my favorite and very easy to do. Have a shallow opening in a wall? Just add some paint, beautiful lighting, and your styled bar cart. The design of the lighting on the dark paint is definitely a vibe which won’t go unnoticed.
This corner reading space above has all the essentials and style for a perfect reading spot. The variety of textures, patterns and pops of color is very inviting. I can see myself sitting in this chair, scrolling my Pinterest feed, while overlooking my sunny backyard.
Credit: Estat Envy
Finding the right furniture for this family room above, may seem challenging, but like the sectional in the photo above, the sections can be typically be purchased by the piece to make it work in just about any shaped room while accommodating the entire family.
The foyer of our homes are often expected to serve as a welcome area. I’ve seen several left empty because some people just choose to do so and others don’t know where to start. The photo above is literally 5 pieces and offers everything a foyer could offer which is a stylish showcase, welcome area, socializing space, quiet space away from others or reading space.
Final Tips For Transforming Odd Spaces In Your Home
Transform alcoves, under stairs, and those peculiar corners into modern, eye-catching spots. Play with creativity with:
Alcoves: Utilize alcoves as mini galleries or cozy reading nooks. Install floating shelves to display art, plants, or books. Experiment with lighting to highlight these spaces, creating a snug retreat.
Under Stairs: Turn that space under the stairs into a functional area. Consider a small home office, a mini bar, or built-in storage solutions. Maximizing this often overlooked spot adds depth and purpose to your home.
Odd Corners: Don’t neglect those odd corners! Add statement pieces like tall plants, stylish floor lamps, or a unique accent chair. Create an intimate setting with a small side table or a decorative mirror to add depth and style.
These odd spaces in our homes hold potential for charm and functionality in your home. With a touch of modern design and a dash of personality, you’ll transform these spaces into inviting, chic zones that complement your home’s aesthetic
That is all folks! Now it’s time to kickstart your creativity with some of these ideas, so I hope you’ve been Inspired!
