10 Austin Built-Ins That Make A Small House Feel Bigger
Living in a small Austin home doesn’t mean you have to feel cramped. Smart built-ins can transform your space, making it feel open and organized without sacrificing style.
Austin homeowners are embracing custom storage solutions that blend Texas charm with practical design, maximizing every square inch while keeping the laid-back Austin vibe.
1. Window Seat Storage Benches
Cozy window nooks double as secret storage compartments throughout Austin homes. Tuck away seasonal items, extra blankets, or rarely used kitchen gadgets underneath cushioned seating.
Many Austin homeowners customize these with locally sourced fabrics featuring Hill Country motifs or music themes that reflect the city’s creative spirit.
2. Floating Staircase Shelving
Stairways transform into stunning book displays and storage centers in Austin’s compact homes. Each step becomes a chance to showcase treasured novels, vinyl records, or local artwork.
The open design keeps sight lines clear while providing serious storage muscle. Austin designers often incorporate reclaimed wood from local sources for an authentic touch.
3. Kitchen Banquette Corner Booths
Corner dining nooks save precious floor space while creating charming gathering spots. Hidden storage beneath bench seating swallows up table linens, special occasion dishes, or bulky kitchen appliances.
Austin families love these cozy eating areas that combine the casual feel of a food truck picnic with the comfort of home. Many feature charging stations for devices too!
4. Murphy Bed Office Combos
Working from home gets a space-saving upgrade with these ingenious wall beds. During the day, enjoy a full-sized desk and shelving system. At night, the desk folds away as the bed pulls down.
Austin remote workers particularly appreciate these flexible solutions that don’t require dedicating an entire room to occasional guests. Some even include built-in charging stations and task lighting.
5. Hallway Library Walls
Narrow passages between rooms become impressive book collections with floor-to-ceiling shelving. What was once dead space transforms into a literary showcase that adds character and functionality.
Austin bookworms particularly love this solution that displays their treasured collections. Some homeowners add library ladders for reaching upper shelves, creating a dramatic focal point in compact homes.
6. Under-Stair Pet Retreats
The awkward space beneath staircases becomes a cozy pet haven with custom built-ins. Austin’s pet-loving homeowners transform this often-wasted area into dog beds, cat climbing walls, or feeding stations.
These pet nooks keep animal supplies organized and out of sight while giving furry friends their own special spot. Some even include sound-dampening features for thunderstorm-phobic pets!
7. Bedroom Headboard Storage Systems
Storage-packed headboards eliminate the need for bulky nightstands and dressers in Austin’s compact bedrooms. Integrated shelving, hidden compartments, and even pull-out trays maximize function without sacrificing style.
Local woodworkers craft these statement pieces using Texas pecan or reclaimed barn wood. Many include clever lighting solutions and cable management for charging phones overnight.
8. Living Room Media Walls
Entertainment centers evolve into stunning architectural features that house TVs, sound systems, and display collections. Austin homeowners love how these walls combine technology with artistic display space.
Many incorporate sliding panels to hide electronics when not in use. The result feels less like a tech shrine and more like a curated gallery wall that showcases local art alongside functional storage.
9. Bathroom Tower Storage
Slim vertical cabinets maximize awkward bathroom corners, creating storage where none existed. These towers often fit between fixtures or in narrow wall spaces that would otherwise go unused.
Austin’s vintage homes benefit tremendously from these space-savers. Many homeowners add reclaimed hardware or sliding barn-style doors as nods to Texas heritage while keeping toiletries organized and accessible.
10. Mudroom Drop Zones
Entryway organization gets the Austin treatment with built-in cubbies, hooks, and benches that corral outdoor gear. Even the tiniest entry halls can accommodate these functional stations that prevent clutter from spreading.
Local homes often feature boot storage for rainy days at Barton Springs or dusty hikes. Many include charging stations for electric bikes and scooters, reflecting Austin’s eco-friendly transportation preferences.
