What to Do With Awkward Spaces. Simple ways to turn overlooked areas into intentional design

There’s a moment in nearly every home where something feels just slightly… unresolved. A wall that’s too short. A corner that doesn’t quite belong. A space that isn’t large enough to be a room, but too visible to ignore.These are the areas that often get dismissed as awkward. But in reality, they’re simply waiting for clarity.

Because an awkward space isn’t a flaw—it’s an opportunity that hasn’t been defined yet.

The most common mistake with awkward spaces is trying to fill them without first deciding what they are meant to be. Before adding furniture or décor, pause and ask a simple question: what is the purpose of this space? When a space has a clear role, even the smallest footprint begins to feel intentional. A narrow wall can become a quiet entry moment with a slim console and a mirror. A pass-through area can feel grounded with a single, well-placed piece. The goal is not to decorate—it’s to define.

Empty corners often feel unfinished simply because they’ve been left without direction. When given even the slightest intention, they can become some of the most inviting areas in a home. A comfortable chair paired with a soft throw and a warm light source creates a natural place to pause. It doesn’t require much—just enough to suggest a moment of comfort.

What once felt like unused space becomes something quietly welcoming.

Spaces beneath stairs, recessed niches, and unexpected cut-outs are often treated as afterthoughts. But these are the details that can give a home character when approached with restraint. Rather than hiding them, allow them to stand on their own with minimal styling. A few well-chosen objects, open shelving, or a small functional use like a compact desk can transform these areas into something purposeful. The key is to resist the urge to overfill. When handled simply, these features feel designed rather than leftover. Hallways and in-between areas often lack identity, which can make them feel disconnected from the rest of the home. By introducing a sense of structure, these spaces begin to feel cohesive. A narrow console, a thoughtfully placed runner, or a simple, symmetrical arrangement of artwork can guide the eye and create flow. The intention is not to crowd the space, but to give it a quiet sense of direction.

Hallways and in-between areas often lack identity, which can make them feel disconnected from the rest of the home. By introducing a sense of structure, these spaces begin to feel cohesive. A narrow console, a thoughtfully placed runner, or a simple, symmetrical arrangement of artwork can guide the eye and create flow. The intention is not to crowd the space, but to give it a quiet sense of direction. When preparing your home for sale, awkward spaces can feel like something to minimize. The instinct is often to disguise them or leave them empty altogether. But buyers notice when a space feels unresolved. Instead of hiding these areas, the goal is to gently suggest their potential. A single chair and lamp can define a corner without overwhelming it. A clean console can anchor a wall without adding visual weight. The approach should remain minimal, neutral, and intentional. You are not fully designing the space—you are offering a sense of possibility. A well-staged awkward space doesn’t tell a buyer exactly what it is. It quietly shows them what it could become.

Awkward spaces don’t need to be solved. They need to be understood. When given purpose, even the smallest or most unusual areas begin to feel natural within the home. And often, these are the spaces that leave a lasting impression—because they feel thoughtful, considered, and complete.

And as always, it would be my pleasure to help you find the home of your dreams. If you’re considering a move or simply exploring your options, feel free to reach out. I’m always happy to offer guidance, share what I’m seeing in the market, and help you find a place that truly feels like home.