A Great Closet Remodel Starts with a Plan

It’s not just a place to hang your shirts and display your shoe collection. A well-planned and beautifully designed closet can literally make your day.  It can save you time and reduce the stress that comes from hunting for the day’s wardrobe. Plus, a great closet will certainly add value to your home when you are ready to sell.

The key to creating this ideal environment, of course, is planning. And, what better season for this kind of reflection and evaluation than fall, when the fall/winter wardrobe replaces the casual clothes of summer, and life comes into sharper focus.

As with any remodeling undertaking, it starts with a needs assessment. A closet is as much a “living space” as any other room in your home. As such, it should reflect and enhance your life and life style.
If x + y x L (lifestyle) = dream closet, find the answers by identifying the unknowns in the equation.

• Take an inventory of your current wardrobe, and future storage requirements.
• Assess the space you have to work with.
• Define the role of the closet in your day. (Do you want a dressing room or clothes preparation area? Is it important to have all elements of the right outfit ready to go at a moment’s notice? Are shoes and accessories a priority?)

The next step is to explore your options and match your “wish list” with appropriate closet components.

• Keep clothes within easy reach with pull-down hangers or pole hangers.
• Use pullout scarf and tie organizers or shoe shelves to make accessorizing a breeze.
• Protect fine clothing with storage boxes, softly shaped wide hangers and snag-free drawer dividers.
• You can be sure slacks and trousers look sharp by installing flat or cascading pant racks.

Turn a larger walk-in closet into a dressing room, adding a seating area, pullout mirror or even an island to provide additional storage and a convenient surface for laying out the day’s wardrobe.

Don’t forget lighting needs. Fluorescents are often preferred because incandescent bulbs can pose a fire hazard. Avoid natural light as a primary light source since it can damage or fade clothing. Make sure lighting is positioned between the clothing and the closet user to minimize shadows.

When every item in your closet has a definite place, and your clothing and accessories are arranged for optimal convenience and ease of use, you have just created the ideal closet.