Small Storage Loft Made of Openwork Wood Panels! 2026

Small Storage Loft Made of Openwork Wood Panels, was rescued from my grandparents' house when I built them a newer, more robust door.

The frame is all 2×4 construction, held in place with 3″ deck screws (because I had too much on hand). It was attached to the walls with 3″ deck screws and to the floor with concrete anchors.

The panels were used in my last apartment for storage and I moved them with me to my new place, but they fit the project perfectly.

Step 1: Padded walls and design

I start by filling in the existing exterior wall, so I have a flat surface where my new wall will be attached. I also place a stud directly into the wall, which is where my newly built wall will meet the existing wall.

I measured from the wall and marked on the floor where my new walls would go. A line is drawn on both new walls to align the threshold plate on the floor.

Step 2: Building and installing the 1st wall

I batch cut the wall studs to size. I determined the height of the wall by measuring the total height I wanted, then subtracted 3 1/2″ for the ceiling thickness and 3″ for the top and bottom plate to get the length. I measured on the top and bottom plate every 16″ for the studs, then marked both with my speed square.

Assembled the wall on the floor. I decided to screw the frame on because it makes it easier in the future if I want to take it apart and change the configuration in the future. Please note that the bottom plate is pressure treated because you want anything touching the slab to be protected from contaminants. When the wall is assembled, I lift it up against the stud I placed in the wall. I start attaching the wall by screwing it into the stud filler that is attached to the wall. I touch the wall by moving the bottom in or out from the existing wall using my 4′ level.

Once everything is in order, I secure the wall in place with a powder-actuated gun. This shoots a nail through the sill plate and into the concrete slab, holding it in place.

Step 3: Building and installing the loft

The roof frame is a little bigger, so I have to build it upright, but it's the same idea as the wall frame.

Once it's assembled, I lift it into place. Note the blocking I attached to the existing wall to hold the ceiling in place temporarily. This keeps it in place while I'm screwing the frame to the wall and I only have 2 hands. I use the ledger locking screws to give me a really secure connection to the existing wall.

Step 4: Installing the panels

The cove panels were originally built for storage in my last apartment. They were built with relocation in mind, so when we moved, this was the perfect new home for the panels. They are simply made of 3/4″ plywood with 3/4″ plywood dowels every 7″ or so.

AtoScrew the panels to the wall. The first panel goes full size and then I cut the other panel to fit the remaining space.

Step 5: Building and installing the 2nd wall

I measure for the studs in the infill wall. I do this by placing both plates on the floor and measuring the distance between them. All the posts are cut to a different length because concrete slabs are never flat and I want to make sure the loft stays level. I build the wall and then put it in place. This is going to be the wall to the right of the door and there will also be a small section to the left. I sized this wall to fit the rest of the panel, so I put it in place. The wall on the left is constructed to leave a section open the width of the door plus 1/2″ to allow for movement of the hinge and door.

Step 6: Door Installation

For a header over the door, I simply install a 2x4 on the floor. This doesn't really offer any structural support, but acts as a surface for the panels I'm going to place on the outside face of the wall. Then I use 3/4″ pine and install it around the perimeter of the door so it stops.

Step 7: Pallet installation

I cover the wall with rosin paper before placing the panels. I'm using pallet wood with some gaps, so this works to cover the entire surface to keep dust out of the room.

To make it more difficult for me, I decided to install the deck wood at a 45 degree angle. This was all the material I had processed before and it was flat on the back.

Step 8: Shelves

The main storage wall will contain clamps on top and equipment on the bottom. The metal equipment I used here was actually an old retail fixture acquired when a local store.

The shelves are the same ones I used previously with the panel wall. They are simple boxes made from 3/4″ plywood and screwed together. A clamp screws to the back to hold it in place on the wall.

Step 9: Completion

I hope you liked this project! Greetings!

Creative Home Decor Ideas to Transform Every Space

Refreshing your home starts with smart design choices that combine comfort, personality, and functionality. Whether you want to modernize a small apartment, upgrade outdoor areas, or create cozy rustic interiors, these trending ideas can completely change the atmosphere of your space.

Outdoor Spaces That Increase Style and Functionality

Outdoor living continues to dominate modern home trends. Homeowners are increasingly investing in practical entertainment zones inspired by these BBQ shed ideas, which create the perfect setup for gatherings and weekend cooking sessions.

First impressions also matter when designing exteriors. Elegant farm entrance gates design ideas help properties stand out while improving privacy and curb appeal.

Compact living solutions are also gaining popularity. These inspiring 16x40 shed house interior design ideas show how smaller spaces can still feel luxurious and functional.

To enhance patios and entryways, homeowners are adding stylish protection with these creative porch awning exterior DIY ideas that blend aesthetics with practicality.

Rustic and Cozy Interior Design Trends

Warm and natural interiors remain timeless. These charming rustic decor ideas combine wood textures, vintage accents, and earthy tones to create welcoming spaces.

Bedrooms are becoming more personalized with curated wall arrangements. Many homeowners use these stylish picture wall ideas for bedroom spaces to display memories and artwork creatively.

Textured wall treatments are another major trend. Installing a board and batten wall adds architectural character while keeping interiors elegant and modern.

Similarly, bold accent wall ideas can instantly transform plain rooms into eye-catching focal points without requiring a full renovation.

Smart Kitchen and Organization Inspiration

Functional kitchens are essential for modern homes. These practical kitchen wall cabinet ideas maximize storage while maintaining a clean and stylish appearance.

Organization also starts at the entrance. Well-designed mud room ideas help families keep shoes, coats, and daily essentials neatly arranged.

Colorful and Personalized Home Styling

Vibrant interiors are becoming increasingly popular thanks to playful dopamine decor ideas that use bright colors and joyful accessories to improve mood and energy.

Gallery walls also continue to evolve as a major decorative feature. These trendy gallery wall inspiration ideas offer creative ways to combine prints, photos, and statement art.

Young renters and new homeowners are especially embracing these stylish first apartment aesthetic ideas to create sophisticated interiors on a budget.

Finally, selecting the right shades can dramatically influence any room’s atmosphere. These modern trendy color ideas help homeowners choose palettes that feel fresh, elegant, and timeless.

Final Thoughts

From rustic charm and colorful interiors to outdoor entertaining areas and functional storage solutions, today’s home decor trends focus on creating spaces that feel both beautiful and livable. By combining smart layouts, modern textures, and personalized decorative elements, any home can become more stylish, comfortable, and inspiring.