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Everyone collects something, whether it’s trinkets, cards, rocks, antiques, or something all your own. Shoes are a common collector’s item. Some days, the perfect pair completes your outfit; they’re how you show the world who you are. But when they start taking over your home, it’s time to get organized. Keeping your shoes tidy without a plan can be draining, but no worries! There are loads of clever ideas out there to get your space in order. The coolest option? DIY a hidden shoe drawer under your cabinets.
From secret rooms to hidden appliances, tucked-away storage is all the rage. Maximizing space and efficiency is the ultimate luxury. A toe-kick drawer to stash your shoes is perfect for making the most of your home. Plus, it eliminates tripping hazards, making your place safer too. This could be the start of your DIY journey!
Adding your hidden shoe drawer
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At the bottom of your cabinet is a kickboard – that little lip that gives your feet some space so you don’t kick the cabinet while you’re working. It also hides support frames and keeps dust from collecting underneath. For this hack, you’ll remove the kickboard to utilize the space below your cabinets. It’ll serve as the front of your drawer since it already matches.
Her shoe basket was waaay too far away from the door and I’m too lazy to walk over and put my shoes in them. So, I had the idea to create a secret shoe drawer. By raising the hallway cabinets and removing the kick plate, I was able to build a 62″ long drawer that is just big enough for 6 pairs of shoes; and we all know what that means… she gets to put 5 pairs of her shoes in there and I get to put one pair 😉
Measuring is crucial when it comes to DIY projects. Check the depth behind the kickboard to figure out the max length for your drawer. The height and width should be a bit smaller than the kickboard itself. Cut some wood planks to those measurements and use a nail gun to attach the back and sides. Add a plywood bottom, center and glue the drawer onto the kickboard, then install the drawer slides. Sometimes it’s easier to line them up with the bottom instead of the center to make sure everything’s level.
If building your own drawer isn’t your thing, but you love this idea, you could always order pre-sized, ready-to-go drawers and start from there. Remodel your home your way to make the most of every inch!
