5 Dreamy Attic Remodels That Take Cozy Style All the Way to the Top

Attics are inherently challenging—they’re often dark, cramped, and, well, far from everything else in the house. Plus, they often have odd and awkwardly shaped spaces to work with. It’s no surprise that so many become a dumping ground for all sorts of odds and ends. But that doesn’t have to be the case. These renovation projects prove that, when properly configured, attic spaces can add some seriously useful—and attractive—square footage to your home. 

Beth Bryan transformed an unused attic space into a home office worthy of a spot in any design magazine. After installing drywall, she added shiplap detail to the ceiling and walls, turned the crawl space into built-in storage, and painted the rest of the room a light, fresh shade. Built-ins take full advantage of the awkward nooks and crannies in this attic space.

To create another usable bedroom for her family (three kids were sharing one bedroom!), Clarita, the blogger behind Skies of Parchment, turned a neglected and very rough attic space into a light and airy bedroom for her two daughters. The dark-stained beams on the ceiling turn the peaked shape into a centerpiece, and the high center point creates enough room for a statement-making chandelier, too.

Lindsay Ostrom and her husband Bjork of Pinch of Yum removed an abandoned brick chimney and framed out a previously uninhabitable attic to create a modern and comfortable bedroom, bathroom, and walk-in closet on the third story of their home. The monochromatic look helps the space look extra airy and inviting.

Rather than finish her basement, Deborah, the blogger behind B Vintage Style, added windows to a dark, but vast attic space to create a room that was much more conducive to family gatherings. She then added shiplap to the ceiling and walls and installed a gorgeous reclaimed wood floor. The result is a space anyone would want to curl up in.

Have a much smaller attic space? (Or maybe you don’t want to sacrifice all of your storage space?) This smaller scale renovation by This House of Dreams shows that finishing even a small attic can yield a worthy hangout spot or playroom. A floor cushion is a practical way to add seating—great for low ceilings!—and baskets make for quick and easy storage.