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An image of a lush green hanging plant.

Overview

We all have an awkward corner in our house – one that looks drab and empty, and we have no idea what to do with it.

The dimensions and right angle in the corner can be hard to work with, but there is so much space and potential in those areas for storage or decoration. We’re sharing some tips on how to get the most out of those unused corners.

Safety tip: Always wear the appropriate safety equipment (safety glasses, gloves, ear muffs and a mask, for example) and always follow the instructions for the product or equipment.

Steps

1Add a hanging plant

Adding plants to your home has many benefits, from improving air quality to boosting productivity to elevating your mood. Corners spaces are the perfect places to add hanging plants, introducing colour and life to the space.

Start with the pot – purchase a new one or upcycle an old one by giving it a coat of paint. Next, add some potting mix and your choice of plant. Suspend the pot from the ceiling using a macramé hanger, a stylish and popular way of hanging indoor plants.

Green Bunnings hammer
Tip: We recommend getting an indoor plant that cascades, like Devil’s Ivy or String of Pearls. This helps fill the space with a beautiful pop of green.
A woman holding a healthy hanging plant with her hands.

2Create D.I.Y. shelves

Corners can also be great spots to add extra shelf storage. It’s easy to build your own D.I.Y. shelves to house books or trinkets.

Tip: If you opt for books, place a comfy reading chair in the corner, as well, to create a snug book nook.

Start by stencilling out shapes onto MDF, and then cut them out using a jigsaw.

A person cutting a MDF board using a circular saw.

Next, use wood glue to secure the pieces together. Screw them together for extra support. Allow the glue dry completely before painting with your chosen colour and ensure you apply two coats.

Tip: You can either paint the shelves one colour or alternate with contrasting colours for a feature look.

Once the paint is dry, put a small picture triangle on the back side of the shelf. Screw wallmates into the wall in your chosen spot and hang the shelf. Repeat this for as many shelves as you want.

A person painting a wooden shelf using a paint brush.

3Display personal touches

Personal touches always warm up a home, and corners are ideal places to hang family photos or a piece of art, or to tuck a side table into displaying precious items. You can even get creative and paint a feature section in the corner.

A person adding finishing touches to a new painted shelf.

4Dress up the floor area

Dress up the floor area by putting down a colourful rug, adding a lamp and a comfortable stool for extra seating. This makes for a cosy space to relax and unwind.

A person positioning a comfortable stool in the corner of the room. 

5Watch the full episode

For more renovation inspiration, watch Episode 6: Teen bedroom, study and main bathroom renovation in our Make It Happen: The House Project series.

Suggested products

Health & Safety

Asbestos, lead-based paints and copper chromium arsenic (CCA) treated timber are health hazards you need to look out for when renovating older homes. These substances can easily be disturbed when renovating and exposure to them can cause a range of life-threatening diseases and conditions including cancer. For information on the dangers of asbestos, lead-based paint and CCA treated timber and tips for dealing with these materials contact your local council's Environmental Health Officer or visit our Health & Safety page.

When following our advice in our D.I.Y. videos, make sure you use all equipment, including PPE, safely by following the manufacturer’s instructions. Check that the equipment is suitable for the task and that PPE fits properly. If you are unsure, hire an expert to do the job or talk to a Bunnings Team Member.