If you’re like us, you’d love nothing more than a spacious walk-in closet, complete with perfectly arranged hangers, shelves, and storage boxes to keep everything neat and easy to find.
But in reality, closets are prone to clutter. Most aren’t built to keep up with an expanding wardrobe, and before you know it, you’re squeezing clothes into every available inch.
A messy closet can be a nightmare to deal with. If you’re starting your days rummaging through a pile of wrinkled shirts, it may be time to build a closet that fits your style and lets you plan outfits hassle-free.
Ready to make it happen? Here are eight tried-and-true ideas to help you build the custom closet of your dreams.
Step 1: Define Your Needs and Space
Before jumping into the closet design process, assess your needs.
- Define Your Wardrobe Needs: Do you have a large collection of shoes? Need more hanging space for formal wear? Love accessories? Think about how you use your closet and what kind of storage would make your life easier.
- Measure Your Closet Space: Grab a measuring tape and note the height, width, and depth of your closet. If you’re planning a walk-in closet, factor in space for movement.
- Consider Future Needs: Make sure your closet storage can accommodate future wardrobe expansions. Planning for space now will save you from needing another renovation later.
Step 2: Set a Budget and Define Your Style
Custom closets can range from budget-friendly DIY solutions to high-end luxury builds. Be clear about your budget so you can prioritize where to spend.
Determine how much you’re willing to invest. High-quality materials and custom features come at a cost, but they also add long-term value.
If you’re on a tighter budget, focus on the must-haves first-like shelving and hanging space-before splurging on extras like lighting or decorative elements.
Step 3: Choose Your Closet Style and Design
The first decision you’ll need to make is whether to go for a walk-in closet or a reach-in closet. The choice depends on the amount of space you have and how much storage you need.
A walk-in closet allows for the most storage and flexibility. You can have separate zones for clothing, shoes, and accessories, plus an island or seating area. Walk-ins also offer more customization options, so you can create a boutique-style experience right at home.
Reach-in closets, on the other hand, can also be highly functional with the right closet organization tips. Consider adding built-in drawers and open shelving to maximize every inch.
Next, personalize your closet with custom built-ins, lighting, and different material/finish choices. Remember to make the most of vertical space with:
- Stacked shelving
- Overhead storage
- Pull-down closet rods
Just because your closet is practical doesn’t mean it has to be boring. Add personality with built-ins, stylish lighting, and finishes that match your vibe. Invest in:
- A full-length mirror with built-in lighting for trying on outfits.
- Glass display shelves with LED lighting to show off designer bags or sneakers.
- Statement lighting (like a chic pendant or LED strips) to give it a polished, high-end look.
Step 4: Plan the Layout and Closet Storage Solutions
Although decluttering is key to an organized closet, you can only part with so many outfits. Not to mention, your closet may still be packed to the brim after an intense decluttering episode.
Instead of trying to downsize endlessly, focus on better storage solutions that maximize your space and keep everything in order.
1. Hanging Space
Hanging rods are a must in any closet, but it’s all about using them wisely. Instead of a single rod running across the entire space, consider double-hanging rods to separate shorter items like shirts and skirts from longer pieces like dresses and coats.
If you have delicate or formalwear that needs extra care, a designated tall hanging section will help keep it wrinkle-free.
2. Shelving and Cubbies
You can use shelves to stow away a lot more than clothes- think handbags, hats, and decorative storage boxes. Adjustable closet shelving gives you the flexibility to rearrange things as your wardrobe changes.
For smaller items (purses, hats, and folded clothes) that need structure, use open cubbies to keep everything visible and within reach.
3. Drawers and Baskets
Not everything needs to be on display. Drawers are perfect for underwear, socks, pajamas, and anything else you’d rather keep tucked away. To keep things extra organized, use drawer dividers so smaller items don’t turn into a jumbled mess.
You can also use baskets as an alternative to drawers. They’re great for scarves, workout clothes, and laundry.
4. Shoe Storage
Shoes have a way of taking over a closet if they don’t have a designated home. A shoe rack, cubbies, or clear stackable boxes can help keep them in check. If you own delicate shoes like suede heels or leather boots, use dust bags or individual compartments to protect them from damage.
5. Accessory Organization
Jewelry, belts, watches, and sunglasses deserve their own space, too. A mix of hooks, trays, and velvet-lined compartments will keep them from getting tangled or lost.
Step 5: Choose the Right Materials and Finishes
The materials and finishes you choose for your closet will set the tone for both functionality and style.
1. Solid Wood
Wood closets can last for decades and offer a premium feel, but they come with a higher price tag and may require more maintenance to prevent warping or scratches.
2. Medium-Density Fiberboard (MDF)
MDF is a smooth, budget-friendly option that mimics the look of wood. While it’s resistant to cracking and peeling, it’s not as strong as real wood.
3. Laminate
Laminate can replicate the look of wood or other finishes without the upkeep. It also resists stains, moisture, and wear.
For custom closet finishes, think about how much maintenance you’re willing to commit to. Matte surfaces and textured designs, for instance, minimize fingerprints and smudges. If you don’t mind committing to a bit of cleaning, you can go with glossy finishes.
Also, if you’re leaning toward an eco-conscious upgrade, look for sustainably sourced wood, recycled materials, or non-toxic finishes.
Step 6: Maximize Space with Smart Closet Organization Hacks
The smaller the closet, the harder it is to control. Fortunately, you can utilize every inch of available closet space with a few storage solutions, styling hacks, and patience.
- Pull-Out Racks: A pull-out rack for pants, scarves, or ties keeps them neatly stored but easily accessible. If you have a lot of accessories or shoes, use a rotating organizer to fit them into your closet.
- Island or Bench: If you have the space, add an island or bench. A small island with drawers gives you extra storage for jewelry, sunglasses, or folded clothes. Likewise, a bench provides a cozy spot to put on shoes or lay out outfits.
Step 7: Personalize with Decor and Finishing Touches
A luxury closet design should be an indulgence- not just another place to stow away items. Personalize yours with:
1. Full-Length Mirror
We’ve said this before, but it’s worth repeating: a full-length mirror makes getting dressed easier. On the practical front, it reflects light and makes the space feel bigger than it is. If you’re in the mood for something high-end, opt for a mirror with pre-fitted LED lights.
2. Seating Area
Anyone who’s ever spent too much time standing in front of their closet will appreciate having a comfortable seating area. A bench, ottoman, or cushioned stool gives you a place to sit while putting on shoes, adjusting accessories, or simply taking a moment to plan your look.
3. Luxury Knick-Knacks
To elevate your closet space further, consider adding artwork, framed prints, or a statement chandelier. It doesn’t have to break the bank-there are plenty of budget-friendly decor options that can give your closet a high-end feel without a hefty price tag. Look for affordable lighting fixtures, thrifted art, or DIY decor projects to add those finishing touches without overspending.
Step 8: Installation and Final Touches
The final step is to bring everything together. If you’re handy with tools, you may be able to install pre-made closet systems yourself. However, if you’ve opted for a fully customized design, it’s best to hire a professional to make sure everything is installed correctly and securely.
After the installation, organize your closet in a way that makes sense for your daily routine.
- Keep similar items together-shirts in one section, pants in another, and accessories in dedicated drawers or bins.
- Uniform hangers create a clean, streamlined look and prevent clothes from slipping off.
- Organizing by color makes it easier to put outfits together, while seasonal rotation keeps frequently worn items accessible.
The Bottom Line
That wraps up our eight-step guide to designing your dream closet! Creating a well-organized, stylish closet is just like designing a personal dressing room-every detail matters. If you need further assistance, the experts at Holland’s Custom Cabinets are here to help!
Holland’s custom closet storage solutions bring organization and style to the busiest parts of your day. Thoughtfully designed to match your taste, our closets turn everyday storage into something exceptional.
Contact us for a consultation today.
