DIY bookshelves made from 2 stepladders and planks of wood In some posts about creative uses of old ladders, we’ve touched on the idea of using the space between the treads as bookshelves, or similar storage areas.  It’s such a popular idea that almost every interior design show visits the concept at some point.

This idea, of using the space around treads, is what inspired designer Robert Heal to develop the modular Ladderax system of storage in 1964.  Instead of using the space between the treads or the treads themselves, as the storage space, Heal had an idea. He decided to create a system that could be expanded easily, based around a series of upright ladders, horizontal connectors and storage units which fit into the gaps between the treads. Steel connecting rods run horizontally between the rungs, and cabinets sit on top of these, resting on grooves in the underneath of each module.

Advantages of the Ladderax System over Refurbed Ladders

The system is self-supporting, unlike most real ladders which need to be leant against something and it is so flexible, it can be set up in the space under stairs; a small system can be built to start with and expanded as more space is needed, without a huge initial investment.  The different modules that can be added are extensive, there’s even a desk addition which folds away when not in use!

The storage system has recently undergone a revival, mainly due to the sharp, sleek lines and the ease with which the whole unit can be reconfigured and taken apart. It’s ideal for A modern ladderax storage systemsmall spaces, because it can make a whole wall into a storage space without looking cluttered. It can be moved around really easily, so if you decide the desk is in the wrong place, it’s just a matter of switching two things rather than moving a lot of furniture about.  The best news for people with original Ladderax systems though, is that the new versions will be compatible with the old, allowing people to update, mix and match and take advantage of old Ladderax units that might have been forgotten. Who would have thought that good old ladders would lead to such an innovative product?