A walk-in closet should have space for formal and informal clothes.
Creating room in a walk-in closet for grouping clothing and accessories requires a detailed plan. Using the space for maximum benefit requires hanging rods, shelving and storage bins or baskets arranged to work well over time. If two people will use the closet, it's important to define separate areas for both. Investing in a pre-made system is often a good idea, but the planning stages should take into consideration how the individuals will use the space. Many people need both formal and informal storage areas, for example. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
1. Measure the space and transfer dimensions to graph paper. Use one square to represent 4 inches of real space. Define the floor layout and each wall facade. Leave openings for one or more doors leading to a bedroom or hallway. Define any overhead light fixtures or electrical outlets that will be placed in the closet. Sketch areas for recessed lighting before drawing any shelf or hanging space.
2. Decide on the depth of hanging space or shelving areas. Draw the rod space first, if the closet will have several hanging spaces for coats vs. blouses or dress shirts vs. tee shirts. Plan everything else around the hanging rods. Figure out if any hanging spaces will have closable sliding doors as well. Build one section of the closet cedar-lined to store winter coats -- allow extra depth for incorporating doors in this space.
3. Choose a shelving system. Review options at a local home improvement store. Figure out if a pre-made system works for your needs, because these are typically easier to install. Don't purchase any shelving until you decide on storage cabinets or drawers, however. Hiring someone to construct a system from scratch as another option. Look at walk-in closets of friends or family members up close to get more ideas.
4. Build the closet sections for visual appeal. Use neutral-colored woods, laminates, baskets and bins that blend well in the closet space. Get a much neater look by using shelves or drawer space in a light oak, color, for example. Avoid mixing too many different finishes, as this can give the closet a cluttered look. Consider using slide curtains in white or beige to hide sections of clothing or shoes, as well, depending on how much space you have to work with.
5. Create a dressing area. Be sure to leave room for a chest of drawers, full-length mirror or three-way mirror if there is room. Install a sitting bench for putting on trousers or shoes in the closet area. Build a vanity dressing area with a counter space and mirror above it as another option. Use carpet on the floor to make the walk-in closet cozy and neat-looking.
Tags: walk-in closet, another option, dressing area, formal informal, hanging rods, hanging space, hanging spaces
