SFGate

AMN Could you use some extra pantry space? If this is near the kitchen, converting it might be an option.

If you want to treat the area as the mudroom, look at mudroom pictures on Houzz and pay special attention to how different cubbies/shelves/cabinets/hooks/rods are configured. Apply what you find as inspirational to your skinny closet. An option might be to install closed cabinetry toward the top of the skinny closet and leave the bottom part for hanging coats, storing boots, et cetera.

Another Idea is to install some cabinetry, shelving, --something with a countertop. There you can drop off keys and or a bag but still have longer-term storage.

It's too bad houses do not have land lines as much anymore. This would be a perfect place for a cute telephone nook!

Start with this link. http://www.houzz.com/Mudroom/ls=5

olldbobbi A pantry is a good idea, or a linen closet with pull out shelves. What room is it near? I saw a Sarah Richardson design show where she used a closet like this to hide audio/video equipment, it was right next to the living room.

rinqreation Pull out shelves was my first thought too! Two large vertical drawers for storage?

Jean Tuck It is small so add a rubber boot tray to keep floor from deterioration,instal coat bar for hanging coats, with a shelf above to hold hats etc. maybe squeze in an umbrella stand in corner next to it , using vertical blind allowing air to rotate for drying clothes after rain/snow.

pivoines I would look at "Lee Valley Tools " site and install sliding shelving and use it for storage, also installing a door to hide the contents.

creeser A friend of mine pinned this closet idea the other day that would work well in your space. Makes a great coat closet.

pivoines Don't forget it is 16 .5 inches, the clothes would be back to back and you would not be able to reach the back hooks .

feeny I would put in shelves from top to bottom and then buy deep rectangular baskets to pull out. We've done this with a deep closet in our bathroom and the baskets have pretty close to tripled the usable storage space and made it so much easier to have access to everything and keep it looking tidy.

pivoines Great idea Feeny, and much cheaper than mine , plus the stuff is hidden so no door needed. way to go .

chrisknox Thanks everyone for the comments. I'm starting to like the basket idea for this area. It is the back door entrance which is used 99% of the time. Immediately to the left are stairs down and to the right stairs up. @AMN - I liked the idea for a shelf to put keys and stuff. It is funny you mention old homes with phone jacks. At the top of the stairs is a small shelf just like this with the jack. I ordered a retro old touch tone phone but done in chrome to look more modern. Thank you again everyone for the ideas.