Every home has one: that awkward little corner or oddly shaped alcove that never seems to serve a purpose. Maybe it collects dust, becomes a makeshift storage pile, or simply sits there unused because you’re not quite sure what to do with it. At Montana Home Services, we love these kinds of challenges. They give us the opportunity to take something underutilized and turn it into a functional, attractive part of the home—all without the cost or hassle of major renovations.
Recently, we completed a small but transformative project for a homeowner in Bozeman who had exactly this kind of dilemma. Inside her bedroom was a small nook—too narrow for furniture, too noticeable to ignore, and essentially wasted space. She wanted to get better use out of it, especially for storage and craft work, but needed a solution that was affordable, practical, and visually appealing.
What we created was a custom floating desk paired with a built-in bookcase, turning that once-forgotten nook into a calm, organized, and truly useful sewing and reading space. It’s a great example of how a simple and relatively small project can make a huge difference in everyday living.
Seeing the Potential in a Small Space
When we first met with the homeowner, she explained that she needed an area where she could keep her sewing machine set up without monopolizing the kitchen table or rearranging half the house. She also mentioned wanting a spot for her books and crafting supplies, things that were scattered around the room simply because there wasn’t a designated place for them.
The nook in her bedroom offered the perfect footprint for a compact work area, but it needed some creativity to make it functional. Traditional furniture wouldn’t fit well in the narrow space, and anything bulky would overwhelm the room. So we sketched out a custom solution that would maximize vertical and horizontal space without adding unnecessary weight or clutter.
A Floating Butcher Block Desk
The centerpiece of the transformation is a floating butcher block desk. Floating desks are a great option in small spaces because they create an open, airy look—no legs to crowd the walkway, no bulky understructure, and plenty of room underneath for additional storage if needed.
We selected a butcher block top because it offers both beauty and durability. The warm wood tone adds character to the room, while the solid construction provides a stable, long-lasting work surface that can easily handle the vibration of a sewing machine.
Mounted directly into the wall studs, the desk is incredibly sturdy, giving the homeowner a workspace she can depend on for years to come. Plus, because it’s a custom cut, it fits the nook perfectly from wall to wall. No wasted inches, no gaps, just a clean, seamless installation.
Custom Wall-Mounted Bookcase for Vertical Storage
To make full use of the space above the desk, we built a wall-mounted bookcase designed specifically for the nook’s measurements. Each shelf is spaced to accommodate a mix of books, craft supplies, and decorative items. Since the homeowner wanted to keep the project affordable, we kept the design clean and functional rather than overly ornate—but the final product still feels polished and built-in.
This bookcase not only adds tons of practical storage, but it also visually frames the desk below it, creating a defined workstation that looks intentional and cohesive within the bedroom. Everything she needs for sewing, reading, or small craft projects is now right at her fingertips.
A Small Project With Big Impact
While this wasn’t a large renovation, the impact was incredible. What was once an awkward, unused corner is now one of the homeowner’s favorite spots in the house. She has a dedicated space for her sewing machine that doesn’t need to be packed up or moved. Her books, which were previously scattered on nightstands and stacked in bins, are now neatly organized. And perhaps most importantly, she feels like the room finally makes sense—no more dead space, no more clutter, just functional design that blends seamlessly with the rest of the home.
At Montana Home Services, these are the projects we love most. They prove that you don’t always need a complete remodel or a large budget to make your home more comfortable and efficient. Sometimes, all it takes is a fresh idea and a custom solution.
Why Small Custom Projects Are Worth the Investment
Many homeowners hesitate to call a handyman for a small project, thinking it may not be worth the effort. But in reality, projects like this one often deliver some of the biggest returns in terms of comfort, usability, and satisfaction.
Here’s why:
1. Custom solutions fit your lifestyle—not the other way around.
Off-the-shelf furniture rarely fits perfectly, especially in oddly shaped spaces. Custom builds maximize every inch.
2. Small improvements reduce clutter and create calm.
A designated nook for work or hobbies keeps the rest of the home tidier and more functional.
3. Quality craftsmanship holds up better over time.
A floating desk or custom shelving built into studs is far sturdier than anything purchased pre-made.
4. Small upgrades make your home feel more like your home.
When every space has purpose, your home becomes more enjoyable to live in.
Looking to Transform a Space in Your Home?
Whether you have a tricky corner, an empty alcove, or an entire room that needs a fresh idea, Montana Home Services is here to help. From custom shelving and built-ins to small carpentry projects and creative storage solutions, we bring experience, craftsmanship, and Montana practicality to every job.
We serve homeowners throughout Bozeman, Big Sky, and the surrounding areas, and we’d be happy to talk about your next project—big or small.
If you have a space that’s going unused, let’s turn it into something you’ll love. Reach out today and let’s bring your idea to life.