Built-In Storage and Closets
Maximize your attic's potential with custom built-in storage. Transform awkward knee wall spaces into functional closets, shelving, and hidden storage.
Why Built-In Storage Matters in Attic Conversions
Attics present unique storage challenges with their sloped ceilings and knee walls. Standard furniture often doesn't fit properly, and freestanding pieces waste valuable floor space. Built-in storage transforms these awkward spaces into functional assets, turning unusable triangular areas behind knee walls into accessible closets, drawers, and shelving. Custom built-ins also add significant value to your home and give the space a polished, intentional feel that freestanding furniture simply cannot match.
Popular Built-In Storage Ideas
Knee Wall Drawers
Pull-out drawers built into the knee wall provide easily accessible storage for clothing, linens, or seasonal items.
- • Deep drawers on full-extension slides
- • Perfect for bedroom storage
- • Keeps items dust-free
Eave Access Doors
Hinged doors in the knee wall provide access to deep storage for holiday decorations, luggage, and rarely used items.
- • Simple to build and install
- • Good for bulk storage
- • Can add lighting inside
Built-In Wardrobe
A full closet system built against the tallest wall with hanging rods, shelves, and drawers.
- • Maximizes vertical space
- • Sliding or bi-fold doors save space
- • Can include mirror on doors
Window Seat Storage
A built-in bench under a dormer window with storage below creates seating and organization.
- • Creates cozy reading nook
- • Hinged lid or drawer access
- • Add cushions for comfort
Tools & Materials Needed
Step-by-Step Building Guide
Plan Your Storage Layout
Careful planning ensures your built-ins fit perfectly and function well:
- •Measure all available wall space, including knee wall depth and ceiling slope angle
- •Sketch your design with dimensions - include drawer depths and shelf heights
- •Consider how doors will swing and drawers will extend
- •Identify stud and joist locations for secure anchoring
- •Create a cut list and materials list before purchasing supplies
Build the Frame
A solid frame is the foundation of durable built-ins:
- •Build face frame from 2x4s or 1x4s to define the opening
- •Secure frame to wall studs with 3" screws
- •Anchor base to floor joists to prevent movement
- •Ensure everything is level and square before proceeding
- •For wardrobes, add top rail and center support as needed
Important: Always use a stud finder and verify framing locations before attaching anything heavy to walls.
Install Shelving
Add shelves for organized storage:
- •Fixed shelves: Use 1x2 cleats screwed to sides, set shelf on top
- •Adjustable shelves: Drill shelf pin holes or install standards/tracks
- •Use 3/4" plywood for shelves spanning over 24" to prevent sagging
- •Add edge banding to exposed plywood edges for a finished look
- •Standard shelf spacing: 10-12" for books, 12-16" for clothes
Add Doors or Drawers
Doors and drawers complete the functionality:
- •Cabinet doors: Use overlay hinges for easiest installation
- •Drawer boxes: Build from 1/2" plywood with 1/4" plywood bottoms
- •Install full-extension drawer slides for complete access
- •Use soft-close hinges and slides for quiet operation
- •Consider push-to-open mechanisms for hardware-free fronts
Alternative: Fabric curtains on tension rods offer a quick, low-cost option for closing off open shelving.
Finish and Trim
Finishing details make built-ins look professional:
- •Fill all screw holes and seams with wood filler
- •Sand surfaces smooth (120-grit, then 220-grit)
- •Apply primer and two coats of paint for durability
- •Add trim to cover gaps between built-in and walls/ceiling
- •Install LED strip lights inside closets for visibility
Pro Tips
- ✓Build units in sections in a workshop, then assemble and install in the attic for easier construction
- ✓Use pocket holes and screws for strong, invisible joints in face frames and cabinet boxes
- ✓Install blocking between studs before drywall if you plan built-ins - makes mounting much easier
- ✓Consider adding an electrical outlet inside closets for charging devices or powering lights
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I utilize knee wall space for storage?▼
Knee wall space is perfect for built-in storage. Build low cabinets, drawers, or access doors into the knee wall to use the otherwise wasted triangular space behind it. Install pull-out drawers on heavy-duty slides for easy access, or create hinged access panels for seasonal storage. This approach can add significant storage without reducing usable floor space.
What type of closet works best in an attic bedroom?▼
Wardrobe-style closets or built-in alcove closets work best in attic bedrooms. Position closets against the tallest walls to maximize hanging height. For sloped ceiling areas, use lower sections for folded items, shoes, or drawers, and taller sections for hanging clothes. Consider sliding or bi-fold doors to save floor space.
Should I build custom or use modular closet systems?▼
Both options work well. Custom built-ins allow you to maximize every inch of irregular attic spaces and can be designed around slopes and angles. Modular systems (IKEA PAX, ClosetMaid, etc.) are faster to install and easier to reconfigure but may leave awkward gaps in non-standard spaces. A hybrid approach often works best.
How do I ensure built-ins are secure in an attic?▼
Anchor built-ins to structural elements: wall studs, floor joists, and rafters. Use a stud finder to locate framing, and secure heavy units with lag screws or structural screws. For tall units, add anti-tip brackets to wall studs. Distribute weight evenly across multiple floor joists to prevent concentrated loads.