Lots of home remodeling projects are inspired by the need for more storage and better functioning space. Many involve “an addition”. If that’s true for you, you’re likely planning to “blow out a wall” or takeover some attic space and make it more usable.
Often this can be for a master bedroom suite or that much needed storage.
The challenge with going into attic spaces is often the angled walls. Most people aren’t sure what to do with them and frequently think they can get much better function from them than is realistic.
Since we’ve worked on lots of projects with angles, we’ve got some “tried and true” approaches to making the most of any wall that’s challenging your design.
Expert top tips:
1. Custom-fitting cabinetry into angled, back wall space requires a significant financial investment. Angles have to be measured and taken into account for accessibility. This often requires creating templates so the cabinetry fits. That adds to the cost of the project as well. So don’t overplan and don’t over expect. Keep in mind that it’s likely you have larger storage bins that can be slid into those spaces, a much more effective option.
2. If you’re working with a solid substrate (like wood or melamine), those materials need to be able to be attached to walls and/or floors. Yes, we do work with “Hanging systems” where the panels are shorter. However, we’re able to attach those to the wall and secure them into studs. In situations where we’re working with angles, we have to use walls and floors for structural rigidity
Lots of home remodeling projects are inspired by the need for more storage and better functioning space. Many involve “an addition”. If that’s true for you, you’re likely planning to “blow out a wall” or takeover some attic space and make it more usable.
Often this can be for a master bedroom suite or that much needed storage.
The challenge with going into attic spaces is often the angled walls. Most people aren’t sure what to do with them and frequently think they can get much better function from them than is realistic.
Since we’ve worked on lots of projects with angles, we’ve got some “tried and true” approaches to making the most of any wall that’s challenging your design.
Expert top tips:
1. Custom-fitting cabinetry into angled, back wall space requires a significant financial investment. Angles have to be measured and taken into account for accessibility. This often requires creating templates so the cabinetry fits. That adds to the cost of the project as well. So don’t overplan and don’t over expect. Keep in mind that it’s likely you have larger storage bins that can be slid into those spaces, a much more effective option.
2. If you’re working with a solid substrate (like wood or melamine), those materials need to be able to be attached to walls and/or floors. Yes, we do work with “Hanging systems” where the panels are shorter. However, we’re able to attach those to the wall and secure them into studs. In situations where we’re working with angles, we have to use walls and floors for structural rigidity
3. Keep in mind what you’re trying to store in the space and make sure it will fit. For short hanging garments, the rod should be approximately 40 – 42” from the floor and at least 11” from the back wall. This allows enough space for the garments themselves to fit.
4. If you’re thinking about shelving as a solution – don’t go super deep. You’re just adding structure to the same problem you currently have. And shelves should have backing (or be built as cabinets) so items don’t fall behind the open shelves.
5. Less structure often nets the best solutions. If you need hanging space, add rods and leave the back area open. Slide your bins and big boxes there.
And if you think you need help getting the most from your space, give us a call. We can help get the most function from it and would be delighted to work with you on your project.