Cubbies are becoming one of the most popular and versatile custom built-in applications in current design projects. Whether you are in need of storage and organization in your entry, mudroom, laundry room, basement, office, or kids' playroom, a custom-designed cubby unit can meet just about any need. Cubbies create vertical storage and organization by dividing up the available storage space into defined functional uses.
The design possibilities of built-in cubbies are numerous, but there are three main components to the standard entry room cubby and a few extra design features to consider.
The Three Main Components of a Storage Cubby
1. Lower Storage and Organization
The base of a three-part cubby design is typically a bench seat with shoe cubbies below for a place to store shoes, boots, and other items out of the walking path.
2. Middle Storage and Organization
The middle of the cubby is typically a tall locker-type design for coats and bags or backpacks to be hung and stored. Individual cubbies or one large space with multiple hooks can organize and store items that are used daily.
3. Upper Storage and Organization
The upper cubby can be designed as open (no door) or closed (door) storage. Depending on the ceiling height of your space and the desired height of the overall unit, you may have one or two upper cubbies. These are great for storing out-of-season hats, gloves, scarves, or outside toys and sports equipment that you don't need on a daily basis.
Miscellaneous & Extras
A charging station built into the cubbies is a great way to organize and keep all your electronics in one convenient place. Run a single outlet to the cubbies for a small charging station or possibly add an outlet to each cubby for individual charging stations. Small shelves or compartments help hold your electronic devices and keep them safe and close at hand as you are heading out the door.
Modify the Typical Entry Cubby for Use in Other Rooms
Laundry Room
To optimize your laundry room's organization, consider adding cubbies for storing detergent and creating taller spaces for hanging clothes. Smaller cubbies can also be utilized to keep sewing materials or stain-fighting agents within easy reach.
For a unique twist, you can transform your entire laundry room into a concealed cubby by incorporating slide-away doors.
Kitchen
If you're passionate about collecting cookbooks, create a dedicated space in your kitchen island for your favorite and frequently used ones.
For added convenience, you can choose to incorporate built-in cubbies on the sides of your kitchen island. These cubbies can serve as storage compartments for cooking essentials or spices.
Home Office
Cubbies are a practical alternative to file cabinets and bookshelves, especially when there are multiple people sharing office space.
By lining them up along one wall, individual organization spaces can be created. This allows each user to have their own designated cubby for conveniently storing paper, books, and other supplies.
Basement or Kids' Playroom
Even square cubbies can be great for holding storage bins or boxes (most home stores sell fabric or cardboard boxes with a label area on the front). Use them to store toys, games, books, DVDs, etc., all in one place along the wall and open up more floor space for playing and entertaining.
How to Decorate Storage Cubbies
There are many ways you can decorate or individualize your cubby design.
- Add decorative baskets or hooks instead of your basic pieces.
- Paint or stain in a two-tone design to add interest and depth, or for a fun kid’s room, paint the inside of each cubby a different color.
- Use bead board as the backing instead of smooth plywood.
- Label each individual cubby with the user’s name or the contents of the cubby.
However you design and use your cubbies, make them work the best for you by taking advantage of as much vertical storage and organization as possible! Don’t forget to have a little fun with the design as well!
Download the eBook "The Ultimate Step-by-Step Home Renovation Transformation Guide" to learn how to design a home renovation project that includes every type of storage solution you require.
