Monday, July 23, 2012

Customize Closets

Make any closet more functional by adding racks and shelving.


Having a closet that fits all of your needs is a dream for most homeowners. With the wide array of closet kits available today, accomplishing that goal is within reach for most of us. The first step is to plan how you'd like your closet to look. Make a list of everything you'd like to have in a closet. Then grab a tape measure and pencil and begin making your custom closet a reality. Does this Spark an idea?


Instructions


1. Take an inventory of your clothing and accessories. Now is the perfect time to rid yourself of worn-out clothing or items you never use. Categorize the clothes, dividing them into work clothing; play and exercise wear; seasonal clothing; and by how often you wear the item. Give items that you wear frequently the most accessible placement.


2. Measure the walls on which you can hang a closet system. This may be only one wall if you have a reach-in closet, or two or three walls if the closet is a walk-in. If there's room at the end of the walk-in closet, consider adding a wall of shelving or putting in a freestanding dresser.


3. Visit one of the many websites that offer an interactive closet design tool. Select the type of hardware you want, usually chrome, nickel or bronze. Select the shelving finish you want, either white or a wood finish.


4. Enter the measurements of your closet. The computer program will develop a standard design based on your measurements and the types of finishes you want, but you can switch out components if you require more shelf space or don't need much long hanging space. Customize the design to match your needs, based on how you'll use the space and the type of storage you need.


5. Paint or paper the walls before installing your new closet unit.


6. Buy and install the closet kit.

Tags: your closet, your needs