You’ve got closet space, right? But not really the way you want it, not really enough and definitely not in the places you need it. We are all too familiar with the “make do”situations of storage space. Whether we live in a Victorian house, a raised ranch or a high-rise apartment, we share the same predicaments. Who decided to design a closet like this? Whose standards are they anyway?! For instance, think about that narrow linen closet that’s too deep and leaves a foot and a half of empty space just inside the door.
Or, how about the “walk-in closet” that isn’t. It has one row of hanging space and not enough room for a mirror on the opposite wall. And what’s with the standard 6 x 8 double sliding doors? They make it impossible to use the two feet of space on the top shelf.
We have all seen it, and we all live with it. But we don’t HAVE to. There are ways to improve these situations. Through minor surgical re-dos or a complete and total gutting of your closets, reconfiguring your closet is a must.
That linen closet that’s too deep and butts into a bedroom can easily be modified. Bring the shelves to the front, make them 18- to 20-inches deep instead of 28- to 30-inches. That will leave you enough space to create an open bookshelf in the adjacent bedroom.
Short closet doors can be replaced with full-size doors. Two doors on a track can become three, making the reach easier. You can also hang a Dupioni silk curtain. Now you can get to ALL your clothes in a breeze. Open shelves can be better utilized with decorative baskets or boxes, or you can cover your open shelves with doors. This makes a great space for tucking away seasonal stuff and suitcases.
The so-called “walk-in“ can be converted to a long reach-in that has full doors and uses half the space. Once converted, you have a choice. Do you want two closets back-to-back? Or would you prefer to gain two feet of space in either a bathroom or bedroom? All this space can be reorganized and used more efficiently.
As for the inside of your closet: standard shelves and rods must go. There are lots of hardware options for every budget. Perhaps you want inexpensive wire-shelving systems by Container Store. Or maybe you have sophisticated custom designs in mind. If that’s the case, sites including GotransFORM, and CaliClosets. com can be of help. Whatever you want, there is a design and configuration for every budget.
Make sure to mix various types of storage to meet your specific needs. For instance, shoe storage should not be at the bottom of the closet, but at eye-level. You need cubbies and hooks for hats, belts, ties and bags. Get shelf dividers, if you like to fold and stack your t-shirts and sweaters. The hanging space must be tailored in height and length to your shirts, skirts, pants, jackets and coats. Customize your organizational elements to fit your lifestyle. If you don’t have a shoe fetish, but love miniskirts, you’ll need fewer shoe racks and more hanging rods.
Closet organization companies offer plenty of help. Use their questionnaires, configurations and suggestions to create the perfect closet for you that leaves no space unutilized.