Considering the visibility of items may help to improve a closet's design.
Most homeowners will tell you that their home simply does not have enough closet space. Closets are usually the main source of storage in a house, and their design directly affects how much space they offer. If you remodel or build a new closet, several factors can help make the most of your space and provide effective organization. Does this Spark an idea?
Space
When designing a closet, your No. 1 priority should be maximizing available space. Use both vertical and horizontal space by installing shelves above the closet rod and roll-out boxes or built-in cabinets on the floor. You may install additional closet rods for upper and lower racks of clothing as well. In addition, you may use closet doors for additional storage by adding a shoe rack, pocket organizer or belt hanger. When shopping for bins, drawers and other storage containers for the closet, keep the closet's dimensions in mind so you know which storage solutions will fit the space.
Depth
Consider the closet's depth when planning its design. Depending on the types of items that you plan to store in the closet, you may need to increase the depth. For example, a closet used for heavy winter coats should measure at least 30 inches deep in order to fit coats and jackets when they hang. Closet plans are typically based on measurements taken prior to the installation of drywall. Because drywall is typically 1/2-inch thick, it reduces the closet's overall width and depth. Remeasuring the closet's dimensions after it is framed ensures that its size is adequate for the items you plan to store.
Visibility
Being able to see the items in your closet will help you keep the space neat and organized. When designing your closet, keep the idea of visibility in mind. Use see-through storage containers, such as glass-front drawers, plastic bins and wire baskets. Shelves are also an effective option because they allow you to see items directly in front of you. Using adjustable storage containers allows you to rearrange them to make large or oddly shaped items visible.
Lighting
When designing a closet, many homeowners overlook lighting. Lighting, however, is instrumental in allowing you to see the items that are stored in a closet. If you have a large walk-in closet with windows, then the natural light from those windows can help. Artificial lighting is necessary, though, at night and in closets without windows. Lighting options for closets are somewhat limited because the heat generated by many lights can be dangerous near clothing and other flammable materials. Fluorescent lighting is typically the best option. You can mount a row of overhead fluorescent lights or place a series of them on closet walls for more concentrated light.
Tags: storage containers, When designing, closet dimensions, closet keep, designing closet, items that