Whilst ensuring the steps were functional for access between the two levels, we maximised the use of the space by integrating a bench area which also concealed a storage area within. Great attention to detail was required to ensure the oak cladding matched up with the existing flooring and that the grain of the timber continued across the lids of the storage compartment. These lids feature a minimal routered handle detail to enable them to be lifted out for access to the storage below.