12 Genius Solutions for Awkward Spaces in Your Design

Transform the smallest, strangest places in your home into stunning spaces with these 12 tips. Discover how to turn awkward areas into eye-catching attractions.

Home design isn’t a mathematical equation—it’s much closer to a form of creative expression. And that means every empty space is an opportunity to create something unique that reflects the personalities and lifestyles of the people who occupy it.

So, what do you do with all those awkward spaces begging to be given a purpose? Here are twelve genius ideas to get you started.

1.    Incorporate plants

Adding beautiful plants is one of the easiest and most immediately transformative ways to use dead space in a home interior. There are so many unique and vibrant houseplants that can introduce life and freshness to awkward spots around the home.

Fiddle-leaf figs, delicious monsters, money plants, and potted strelitzias are all big, space-occupying, low-maintenance indoor plants that are easy to obtain worldwide.

2.    Create a cozy reading nook

Book-lovers unite—this is a fantastic way to make awkward spaces more functional if you spend a lot of time at home unwinding with a book (or even a tablet) on cozy days.

Reading nooks work best in corner spaces or underneath large window sills that can accommodate a person's (or two's!) length. Jazz it up with comfy textured cushions, plush throws, and beautiful soft fabrics, and you’ve got a spot that everyone in the house will be fighting for throughout every season of the year.

3.    Use an ornate room divider

For several centuries, room dividers have been used to add detail, drama, and functionality to large interior spaces. Ornate varieties are a clever way to make your living room, study, or bedroom feel more artistic while separating the room into more than one area.

The great thing about these strategic forms of decor is that they are equal parts practical and beautiful. Depending on how you choose to place them, they can create more space or take up space. 

4.    Invest in fine art

On the topic of detail and drama, there’s nothing like a great work of art to elevate home design to the next level. There’s always room for fine art in a home, but those with an abundance of empty or awkward spaces can particularly benefit from it.

There are also countless art genres, styles, sizes, and aesthetics to choose from, allowing you to personalize your space in a way that regular decor simply cannot achieve.

5.    Build a mini home office

Now that remote working has become such a big part of society, home offices are something that almost every home can use to its advantage. If you’ve got an empty-looking area in your home that needs a fresh purpose, consider installing a small home office for writing emails, taking video calls, or even simply working on your own creative projects.

6.    Amp up aesthetics with vintage decor

Vintage decor is quintessentially original and tends to be more detailed than popular modern home features. This makes it the perfect vehicle to incorporate into dull spaces that lack the unique je nais se quois that vintage aesthetics bring to the table.

Think: ornate lampshades, antique chairs, kitsch glass vases, and unconventional ceramicware. They all have the potential to fill up awkward spaces with their character.

7.    Curate a creative bookshelf

If your walls feel drab and lackluster, it might be time to install a creative-looking bookshelf to start your own little private library. Not only does this make a great home feature, especially for families or the literary inclined, but it also looks beautiful.

Bookshelves can also be used to position more than just books on them. You can add your favorite trinkets and treasures for a unique twist on the classic piece of furniture.

8.    Make a meditation corner

A little bit of Zen energy might be exactly what that awkward corner at the back of your bedroom or living room needs. Invest in a stylish meditation chair, jute rug, incense holder, or aromatherapy burner for an instant lift to your space while encouraging yourself to foster a more peaceful way of life.

9.    Slide in stylish storage units

When in doubt about an empty space in your home, install some stylish storage units. As common as awkward home spaces are, many would love to have the problem of “too much space,” so take advantage of it where you can.

Shelving, boxes, cabinets, and drawers all make great storage units that are easy to make beautiful with the right materials and finishings. Goodbye clutter.

10. Add a wine rack

If you’re part of a wine club or want to display a selection of your favorite wines, why not install a beautiful wine rack? These racks can be wonderfully tasteful and are available in a variety of different materials and styling. They’re the ideal solution for an empty wall you’re unsure what to do with.

11. Hang unusual mirrors

A well-placed mirror can make all the difference to a small, awkward space struggling to find its identity within the home. Mirrors not only make indoor spaces appear more luxuriously spacious but also add more light and create a comfortable home flow for tighter areas.

12. Slide in some statement furniture

Statement furniture can always add more depth, dimension, and intrigue to your home. Plus, when chosen well, it can also be very functional.

Consider investing in an avant-garde armchair or bespoke sculpture to fill those awkward nooks so that no part of your home feels (or looks) disregarded.

Conclusion

Finding ways to augment your home space with unique takes on awkward zones is a fun way to make your home more interesting while increasing its practicality. These twelve creative ideas for using up those empty spaces can help you transform your home into a place that feels comfortable, functional, and original.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How can I make a small, awkward space look bigger?

Hang a mirror that reflects as much of the room as possible. This creates a feeling of space and depth.

2. What are easy ways to fill strange spaces?

Using plants, bookcases, plants, or eclectic statement decor helps to fill all size and shape spaces.

3. How can I make an awkward space usable?

Create a small reading nook or create a home office using furniture that fits the space and is multi-functional.

4. What types of furniture are best for an awkward space?

Choose between a statement piece that draws attention to the area and subtle pieces that blend in seamlessly and don’t attract the eye.

5. How can I personalize an awkward space?

Add photographs or artwork that hold special meaning for you.

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