Understanding Closet Design Basics

Designing a closet is more than just choosing where to hang your clothes. It’s about maximizing your space, meeting your storage needs, and creating a functional, stylish environment. Let’s break down the basics.

Space Evaluation

Before you start dreaming about shelves and drawers, measure your closet space. Use a tape measure to record the height, length, and depth of your closet. Note any windows, doors, and how they open. This will help you understand what closet systems will fit and what won’t.

Pro Tip: Mark utilities and access panels. Knowing where these are can save you headaches later.

Storage Needs

Think about how you use your closet. Do you hang more clothes or fold them? If you have lots of dresses, skirts, and pants, you’ll need more hanging rods. If you fold more, focus on shelving.

Example: If you like to get dressed in your closet, consider creating enough space for a small dressing area.

Walk-In vs. Reach-In

Walk-In Closets: These are like small rooms dedicated to clothes storage. They usually have their own lighting and can be shared by two people. Walk-ins are great for those who want to create a luxurious dressing area.

Reach-In Closets: These are smaller, functional spaces. When the doors are open, you can easily reach everything. They are perfect for those who need a quick grab-and-go solution.

Lighting

Good lighting is crucial. It helps you see your clothes and accessories clearly. Consider installing task lighting or under-cabinet lights to brighten your workspace.

Fact: Proper lighting can make even a small closet feel more spacious and inviting.

Building Materials

Choosing the right materials can make a big difference in both the look and durability of your closet.

Wire Closet Organizers: These are less expensive and easy to install. They are perfect for those on a budget and offer flexibility with continuous sliding rods.

Wood Closet Organizers: These are sturdy and attractive but require a bit more effort to install. They offer a more polished look and are great for those who want a high-end finish.

Consideration: Custom units are available by the linear foot, while prepackaged kits come by the wall size (e.g., 5-foot-by-8-foot).

By understanding these basics, you can start to envision a closet that not only meets your needs but also enhances your daily routine. Next, we’ll dive into some popular closet design styles and their benefits.

Popular Closet Design Styles and Their Benefits

Modern Closet Designs

Modern closet designs are all about sleek lines and minimalist aesthetics. These designs focus on functionality while maintaining a clean and uncluttered look.

Example: The Everyday Collection™ is a great representation of this style. Featuring 3/4-inch straight-edge panels, adjustable shelves, and half-overlay flat face doors, it balances form and function perfectly. Plus, it’s budget-friendly, making it accessible for many homeowners.

Classic Closet Designs

If you lean towards a more traditional look, classic closet designs might be your go-to. These designs often feature soft edges and timeless elements that can fit into any home decor.

Example: The Classic Collection™ utilizes exclusive soft edge treatments and flat-face, half-overlay doors and drawers. Available in various materials and colors, this collection offers a versatile solution that honors traditional aesthetics while providing ample storage.

Regency Closet Designs

For those who appreciate a touch of luxury, Regency closet designs are sophisticated and elegant. These designs often incorporate high-end materials and exquisite craftsmanship.

Example: The Regency Collection™ is designed to be as stunning as your wardrobe. It is perfect for those who want their closet to make a statement while providing superior storage solutions.

Brio Collection

The Brio Collection™ is ideal for those who want the look and feel of natural woods without the hefty price tag. This collection is becoming increasingly popular due to its affordability and stylish appearance.

Example: The Brio Collection celebrates the natural beauty of woods like cypress and fir. It provides a cost-effective alternative to real wood, making it a smart choice for budget-conscious homeowners who don’t want to compromise on style.

Each of these closet design styles offers unique benefits, whether you’re looking for modern simplicity, classic charm, sophisticated elegance, or affordable natural beauty. Up next, we’ll explore key considerations in choosing the right closet system for your space.

Key Considerations in Choosing Your Closet System

Choosing the right closet system is essential for maximizing your space and matching your personal style. Let’s explore the key options: DIY closet systems, custom solutions, and prepackaged kits.

DIY Closet Systems

DIY closet systems are perfect for those on a tight budget or who enjoy personalizing their space. With a DIY approach, you can purchase basic materials like shelves and rods from your local hardware store and assemble them yourself. This method allows you to create a functional and unique closet without breaking the bank.

Example: Phillip, a DIY enthusiast, used a simple shelf and a closet rod to revamp his small closet. He added an unassuming dresser and some bins, creating a beautiful and budget-friendly solution.

Custom Closet Solutions

For those seeking a tailored fit, custom closet solutions are the way to go. KBF Design Center offers personalized designs that fit your specific needs. These solutions are more expensive but provide professional measuring, custom millwork, and installation.

Example: Sarah worked with KBF Design Center to create a custom walk-in closet. The design included specialized storage for her shoes, bags, and accessories, making her mornings more efficient and enjoyable.

Prepackaged Closet Kits

Prepackaged closet kits offer convenience and ease of installation. These kits come in standard sizes and include everything you need for a quick setup. They are available in both wood and wire options, catering to different aesthetic preferences and budgets.

Example: John purchased a 5-foot-by-8-foot wire closet kit from his local home improvement store. The kit included horizontal shelving rails, vertical uprights, and closet rods, making installation a breeze.

Each option has its pros and cons, so consider your budget, style, and needs when deciding on the best closet system for your home. Up next, we’ll delve into how to enhance your closet’s functionality and style.

Closet Design: Enhancing Functionality and Style

Customizing Your Closet Layout

When it comes to closet design, customization is key. Think about what you need most. Do you have a lot of folded clothes? Consider adding closet towers. These towers offer extra shelf storage for items like sweaters, jeans, hats, and bags. Some towers are even compatible with drawer units, giving you the option for concealed storage.

Hanging rods are another essential feature. Double-hang rods can double your storage space. Place the top rod about 84 inches above the floor and the bottom rod around 42 inches high. For items like dresses and coats, single-hang rods at 70 inches high work best.

Shelves can also be customized. If you have high ceilings, install a shelf that runs the entire perimeter of your closet at 85-1/2 inches high. For folded clothes, place shelves 12 inches apart vertically.

Integrating Effective Storage Solutions

Effective storage solutions can transform your closet into a highly functional space. Drawers are great for socks, belts, and other small items. Baskets can be used for bulkier items like sweaters, while cubbies are perfect for shoes and purses.

Many closet kits are adjustable, so you can mix and match to fit your needs. For example, use shorter shelves at various heights to create more storage space. Just make sure to place the shelves at least 12 inches apart vertically for stacked clothes.

Selecting the Right Accessories

Accessories can make a big difference in your closet’s functionality and style. Tie racks, hampers, and valet rods are small additions that can have a big impact.

• Tie racks keep your ties organized and easily accessible.
• Hampers can be integrated into your closet for a seamless look.
• Valet rods are perfect for planning outfits or hanging freshly ironed clothes.

You can also add shoe storage, belt and tie organizers, and hooks to tailor your closet to your needs. With wood closet kits, you can even add doors to conceal items on the shelves, giving your closet a clean, streamlined look.

Up next, we’ll answer some frequently asked questions about closet design.

Frequently Asked Questions about Closet Design

What is the average cost to design a closet?

The cost to design a closet can vary widely based on several factors. Basic costs for a simple DIY setup might be as low as $200 to $500. This includes basic shelving and rods from your local home improvement store.

For more complex systems, like those offered by Closets by Design, you might be looking at $1,500 to $3,000 on average. Custom solutions designed with high-end materials and professional installation can go up to $5,000 or more.

Additional features such as drawers, specialized racks, and integrated lighting will add to the cost. For example, adding a set of drawers could increase the total cost by $200 to $500.

How can I design my own closet?

Designing your own closet can be both fun and rewarding. Here are some DIY tips to get you started:

• Measure Your Space: Start by measuring the height, length, and depth of your closet. Note any obstacles like doors and windows.
• Rod Placement: Determine where you’ll place your hanging rods. If you have many long garments like dresses, ensure you have enough vertical space. For shorter items like shirts and pants, you can use double rods to maximize hanging space.

• Drawer Use: Incorporate drawers for items you prefer to keep out of sight. Drawers are great for socks, underwear, and accessories.

• Shelving Options: Use adjustable shelves for flexibility. Shelves can be used for folded clothes, shoes, and storage bins.

Style choices can range from sleek and modern to classic and traditional. Think about the look you want and choose materials that fit your style.

Is it cheaper to build your own closet system?

Building your own closet system can indeed be cost-effective, especially if you opt for stock systems from stores like Home Depot or IKEA. These prepackaged kits are designed for easy installation and typically cost between $100 and $500.

However, if you want a more personalized touch, custom design benefits are worth considering. Custom closets allow you to tailor every aspect of your storage, from the dimensions to the finishes. While more expensive upfront, a custom solution can maximize space and functionality, potentially saving money in the long run by avoiding the need for future upgrades.

Stock systems are great for budget-conscious projects and offer a wide range of configurations. On the other hand, custom designs provide a perfect fit and a cohesive look, making them a worthwhile investment for those seeking a high-end finish.

Next, we’ll dive deeper into the details of designing your own closet, from rod placement to shelving options.

Conclusion

At KBF Design Center, we believe that a well-designed closet can transform your home and simplify your life. Our client-focused service ensures that every project is tailored to your unique needs and preferences.

Innovative design is at the heart of what we do. We use the latest trends and technologies to create closet solutions that are both stylish and functional. Whether you’re looking for a sleek, modern design or a classic, timeless look, our expert team is here to help.

Our approach starts with understanding your space and storage needs. From there, we work with you to choose the right materials, layout, and accessories to create a closet that fits your lifestyle. We offer a range of options, from DIY systems to fully custom solutions, ensuring that you get the best value for your budget.

Ready to revamp your space? Visit our Closet Remodeling Services page to book a free consultation and start your journey towards a more organized and beautiful home.

Thank you for reading! We hope this guide has provided you with valuable insights into closet design. If you have any questions or need further assistance, don’t hesitate to reach out to us at KBF Design Center.