Your bedroom closet can serve purposes other than storing your clothes.
Wasted space -- it just doesn't make sense in today's multitasking, moving quickly and frantically attempting to check off every item on overstuffed to-do lists. If you have an unused bedroom closet or alternative space for your clothing, seize the unclaimed space and make another purpose for it. Repurposing the space gives you an area that can better accommodate your life and save time with additional storage, an office or a laundry addition. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
Office Conversion
1. Remove all contents from the closet. Remove the curtain rod and any shelves that are placed in low locations or don't blend in with your desired design scheme.
2. Paint the interior of your closet. An in-home office closet needs to feel like a separate area, so pick a refreshing color that will motivate you to work. Paint the inside of the doors as well. Use wallpaper as an alternative if you prefer.
3. Place a desk inside the closet. Add an actual desk if it fits within the width of the closet. Attach a sturdy shelf between the closet walls for your desktop if a desk doesn't fit. A shelf on top of two filing cabinets provides a functional alternative.
4. Hire an electrician to add outlets to the closet. Your computer and electronics need a power source. If you live in an older home, your bedroom may not be wired well enough for all of the office equipment, so be prepared to shell out extra money for updating your wiring system.
5. Add shelving. Attach sturdy shelves to the wall to hold files and make your office space more personal with accessories. An over-the-door unit or pegboard adds an additional storage opportunity.
Laundry Room Conversion
6. Remove the contents from the closet. If your closet's ceiling is high enough, you may be able to keep it in its current position to hang clothes before placing them in the appropriate rooms.
7. Build a platform out of 4-inch by 4-inch lumber to prop up your washer and dryer if desired. Paint the platform the same color as your appliances. Place the platform inside the closet flush against the back wall.
8. Place your washer and dryer on top of the platform. Use a dolly to assist with the process.
9. Hire an electrician to install outlets that the plugs from your washer and dryer appropriately fit into. You may also need to have duct work or ventilation work done, depending on your home and appliances.
10. Add a piece of painted plywood on top of the washer and dryer for a folding station. A leftover countertop is an alternative material that serves the same purpose.
11. Install a sturdy shelf inside the closet. Place laundry detergent and other necessary supplies on the shelf.
Tags: washer dryer, inside closet, your washer, your washer dryer, additional storage
