When we lived in OK, we built a new home. We expanded a house plan to make a bigger kitchen and ½ bath and in the process ended up with a 3X8 unused space. It was enclosed by walls for the kitchen, ½ bath, den and on the 4th side by the alcove in the garage for the water heater. I had three decorative panels built for the wall in the den. The center panel disconnected from the wall and you stepped over a threshold into the 3X8 storage area. Cozy but effective.