Closets can hold a lot more clothes and accsessories if it's designed well.
Builders usually skimp on the closets, simply installing a single rod around the perimeters. This is a very inefficient way to design a closet. Adding cubbyholes and multiple layers of rods can greatly increase the storage capacity of your closet. Does this Spark an idea?
Needs
Consider your need for a lot of hanging space, drawer space, shoe storage, a full-length mirror, an ironing board or a place to sit to put on shoes. Decide which of these are most important to you.
Measurements
Measure the available length of wall space. If there is room in the center, figure out how much hanging or folding space is available there, too (provide at least 4 feet from the wall to the edge of the folding area). Draw the outline of the closet on graph paper, then an island if there is room. Now, draw an elevation of each of the walls (a picture of the wall as seen head-on). Start with drawing the identical floor line next to the floor plan, then draw vertical lines equal to the wall height, then draw the "ceiling" or a horizontal line. You will measure and fill in these as you place your elements on the floor plan.
Chest Storage
If you want a chest for underwear and other folded items, draw that in first. If you will be using it every day, place it in an easily accessible spot, such as near the door or next to your everyday tops and bottoms.
Long-Hanging Space
Calculate how much long-hanging space you need for such items as long dresses, robes or pants. Figure out where this space would best be placed--usually at the end of the closet wall. The minimum height for the pole would be 60 inches.
Short-Hanging Space
Calculate how much short-hanging space you need. Before you decide to put in double rods, however, be aware that the most efficient arrangement provides that you do not bend over to retrieve anything. Therefore, put cubbyholes/shelves on the upper level, with short-hanging space underneath. Your shoes, sweaters, purses and anything else you want to place in these spaces goes above. Balance out the two areas so that you have enough space for both hanging and storage. The bottom hanging pole should be 40 inches from the floor.
Accessories
If you want a pull-down ironing board, a full-length mirror or a seat, determine where those will fit. Perhaps the mirror goes on the back of the door. The ironing board might fit above a low chest if you leave the top of the chest clear. A seat might fit in the center area. Looking at the elevations, which should have the ceiling height measured correctly, finish off with shelves above the hanging and cubbyhole areas to store suitcases and anything else that you don't need on a regular basis.
Tags: ironing board, anything else, Calculate much, floor plan, full-length mirror