Alcoves are those charming little spaces that often get overlooked, but they have so much potential! Whether your home has period features with deep recesses or newer walls with unused niches, these spaces can be transformed into something both stylish and practical. In this blog, we’re sharing a range of alcove design ideas to help you maximise storage, add character, and create clever solutions for any room.
Looking for a tailored touch? Check out our bespoke joinery design service to create something truly made for your space.
Bespoke Alcove Storage: Smart, Tailored Solutions
image credit: Gcarr Joinery and Building
If you’re looking for ways to optimise space, alcoves can provide the perfect spot for custom-built storage that blends seamlessly with your interior.
- Fitted Alcove Shelving – Perfect for books, statement décor, and plants, bespoke shelving makes the most of awkward spaces.
image credit: Sophie Punshon
- Made-to-Measure Cupboards – Need hidden storage? Built-in alcove cupboards keep everything neat while enhancing the room’s aesthetic.
- Bespoke TV & Media Units – Tailored alcove media units provide a sleek way to organise your entertainment system.
💡 Our bespoke joinery design service starts from £250. Find out more about our custom furniture solutions.
Create a Cosy Alcove Seating Area
image credit: Kelly Wearstler
- A well-designed alcove can be the perfect snug retreat—a quiet escape from the rest of the home.
- Built-in Bench Seating – Add plush cushions and you’ve got a comfy little hideaway for reading or relaxing.
- Bay Window Seating – Transform that alcove under the window into a dreamy nook bathed in natural light.
- Storage Benches – Clever designs combine seating with under-seat storage for a practical, stylish solution.
Make Your Alcoves Stand Out with a Feature Wall
images sourced from Pinterest
- Alcoves offer the ideal space to play with bold colours, textures, and lighting to make them stand out—or blend in seamlessly.
- Accent Paint Colours – Highlight your alcove by painting it a different shade from the main wall.
- Wallpaper & Paneling – Whether you love classic wainscoting or a contemporary geometric design, your alcove can make a stylish statement.
- Integrated Lighting – Use LED strips or wall sconces to create a warm, inviting ambiance.
Home Office Alcove Design Idea: The Perfect Small Workstation
image credit: Interior Fox
More people than ever are working from home, and turning an alcove into a home office is a great space-saving solution.
- Fitted Desks – A custom-built desk keeps things streamlined and maximises workspace.
- Shelving Above the Desk – Take advantage of vertical space for books and office essentials.
- Fold-Away Options – If you want your workspace to disappear at the end of the day, opt for a pull-out or hidden desk.
Alcoves might be small, but they can make a big impact when styled with purpose. From clever storage and statement shelving to cosy reading spots and compact home offices, these spaces are just waiting to shine.
If you’re ready to transform your alcove into something functional and fabulous, our bespoke joinery design service starts from just £250. Whether you’ve got an idea in mind or need help developing a design concept, we’d love to hear from you.