Thumbnail of DIY small space furniture ideas

10 DIY Small Space Furniture Ideas

by

Tight spaces call for smart solutions. Build your own furniture to match your needs. These projects use simple materials and tools. They add storage and style without crowding the room. Pick easy ones if you are just starting out.

Why Build DIY Furniture for Tight Spots

Custom pieces fit exactly where you need them. Ready-made items often do not suit small areas. These builds cost little and last long. They keep clutter in check. For more storage tips, see our closet organization ideas for small spaces.

Basic Tools and Supplies

Start with these items:

  • Tape measure
  • Drill or screwdriver
  • Handsaw or jigsaw
  • Sandpaper
  • Wood glue
  • Nails or screws
  • Optional: Paint or varnish

Get wood from a hardware store. Reuse scraps to cut costs. Measure each part before cutting.

Project 1: Wall-Mounted Floating Shelves

These shelves stick to the wall. They store books or dishes. No floor space used.

How to Make Them

  1. Measure and cut wood planks to size.
  2. Smooth with sandpaper.
  3. Fix brackets to studs in the wall.
  4. Slide planks onto brackets.
  5. Add finish if desired.

Time: 45 minutes. Cost: $15. This works well in kitchens or living rooms.

DIY wall-mounted floating shelves.
Wall shelves free up floor area.

Project 2: Slide-Out Under-Bed Drawers

Store linens or clothes under the bed. Wheels make them easy to reach.

How to Make Them

  1. Measure under-bed clearance.
  2. Cut plywood for sides and bottom.
  3. Attach casters to bases.
  4. Assemble with glue and screws.
  5. Add pulls for handles.

Time: 2 hours. Cost: $25. Great for bedrooms. Link to our time-saving organization systems for more ideas.

Project 3: Wall-Folding Desk

This desk drops down for use. Fold it up to save space.

How to Make It

  1. Cut a board for the top.
  2. Attach hinges to one edge.
  3. Screw the other edge to the wall.
  4. Add a support leg or strap.
  5. Finish the surface.

Time: 1 hour. Cost: $20. Use for work or meals. See this guide on transforming furniture for details.

Space-saving DIY folding desk.
Desk folds away when not needed.

Project 4: Pallet Side Table with Shelf

Use a pallet for a low table. Add a shelf for extras.

How to Make It

  1. Clean and sand a pallet.
  2. Cut to height if needed.
  3. Add short legs.
  4. Insert a middle shelf.
  5. Secure all parts.

Time: 2 hours. Cost: $10. Pallets are often free. Check our DIY pallet furniture ideas for variations.

Project 5: Over-Door Hanging Rack

Hang this over a door for coats or bags.

How to Make It

  1. Measure door top.
  2. Cut a board for the base.
  3. Drill holes for dowels.
  4. Insert dowels as hooks.
  5. Hang with tension rod.

Time: 30 minutes. Cost: $12. Fits entryways well.

Project 6: Mesh Pocket Organizer for Shower

Pocket organizer holds bath items. Hangs without drilling.

How to Make It

  1. Cut mesh fabric to size.
  2. Sew or glue pockets.
  3. Add loops for hanging.
  4. Attach to rod with hooks.

Time: 20 minutes. Cost: $8. Keeps bathrooms neat. Pair with our safe mold removal guide.

DIY mesh shower storage.
Mesh pockets organize bath supplies.

Project 7: Repurposed Wine Rack for Towels

Use a rack to hold rolled towels.

How to Make It

  1. Find a wooden wine rack.
  2. Sand rough spots.
  3. Mount to wall.
  4. Roll and place towels.

Time: 15 minutes. Cost: $10. Works in bathrooms or laundry.

Project 8: Pull-Out Under-Stair Drawers

Turn stair space into storage.

How to Make Them

  1. Measure the area.
  2. Build drawer frames from wood.
  3. Install drawer slides.
  4. Add fronts.
  5. Test for smooth pull.

Time: 3 hours. Cost: $35. Ideal for unused spots.

Project 9: Box Ottoman with Hidden Storage

Seat and store in one piece.

How to Make It

  1. Assemble a wood box.
  2. Cover top with foam and cloth.
  3. Hinge the lid.
  4. Add legs.
  5. Fill inside.

Time: 2 hours. Cost: $18.

DIY storage ottoman build.
Ottoman hides items inside.

Project 10: Simple Loft Bed Base

Raise the bed for under-space use.

How to Make It

  1. Check ceiling height.
  2. Build frame with posts and slats.
  3. Add side rails.
  4. Include a ladder.
  5. Secure mattress.

Time: 5 hours. Cost: $45. Creates room below. For plants under it, see low-light plants guide.

People often ask: How do I make storage in tiny kitchens? Use wall racks or pull-outs. What about beds in small rooms? Loft or fold-up styles work best. Related searches include under-stair ideas and multi-use tables. These projects cover that. All info checks out as of September 2025. For more, visit Better Homes & Gardens on small furniture.

Leave a Comment