Cover a closet with an alternative door option such as fabric or screens.
Closets are utilitarian home storage options, but the simplicity of traditional closet doors may leave some homeowners feeling uninspired. Instead of the standard closet door, get creative with alternative options for covering up closets. A number of options, ranging in style from traditional to contemporary, provide homeowners with an array of choices for customizing a closet space. Does this Spark an idea?
Sliding Doors
If you like the simplicity and functionality of traditional closet doors, consider sliding closet doors as an equally utilitarian option that adds a bit of style. A pocket door slides into a compartment cut out from a wall. Pocket doors are space-saving options that offer several design variations. For an uninterrupted flow around the room, a flat-front pocket door painted in the same color as the wall is so subtle it is almost disguised. Pocket doors with panel fronts and a light wood stain mimic the look of a traditional door, while pocket doors painted in a bold, high gloss finish offer a contemporary contrast. Barn-style doors on closets offer a more dramatic door option. Like pocket doors, barn doors open and close by sliding along a track, but barn doors do not necessarily slide into a compartment. Barn closet doors are often made from wide, rough-edged planks and secured by large wrought iron hardware; they are ideal for large closets in rustic-style rooms or contemporary bedrooms to add an element of recycled materials.
Fabric
Fabric is an inexpensive and versatile option for covering closets. Choose a fabric that matches your window treatments to create a disguised closet; for a full treatment, include matching tie-backs and swag on the closet. Contemporary fabric treatments are an option to add color to the space. Select a heavy fabric made from cotton or wool in bold colors such as black and white or lime and gray. For a more substantial closet cover, add fabric to a standard or pocket door. Upholster individual door panels or wrap the entire door in a fabric that matches or complements the other fabrics in the room. Folding fabric screens serve double duty as a closet cover and a visual focal point or piece of artwork in a room.
Disguised Doors
Disguised doors are both playful and practical option for covering closets. If you already have a door on your closet that you would like to include in the design, convert your existing door into a disguise piece. Replace distracting hardware with small and understated pieces painted in the wall color; forgo door knobs for doors with a magnetic catch mechanism that doesn't require visible hardware. A large framed mirror or series of paintings on the front of the door distracts from the closet it covers and appears to be a piece of room decor. For an even more covert cover, install a sliding floor-to-ceiling bookcase; the shelves offer storage as well as a clever option for a disguised closet door.
Tags: closet doors, covering closets, pocket door, barn doors, closet cover, closet door
