When we design a closet, we consider a variety of factors that contribute to functionality, efficiency, and aesthetics.
Design and Accessibility
A well-designed closet in a primary bedroom should allow for easy access to every item. The layout should make it simple to find what you need and put things away without any hassle. Efficiency is key, enabling you to quickly assemble outfits, with everything having a designated space. The closet should support every step of garment care: storing clean clothes, creating outfits, and sorting laundry for home washing, professional laundering, or dry cleaning.
Storage Layout
- Open storage is the most efficient, providing visibility of all items without the need to open drawers or doors.
- Calculate the linear length required for shelves dedicated to shoes, folded clothing, and accessories such as bags and hats.
- Determine the necessary space for short hanging garments, including jackets and shirts.
- Allocate sufficient hanging space for long garments like pants and dresses.
We recently designed a custom closet for a style-driven teen in Sherborn, MA, where maximizing vertical space and carefully planning hanging zones allowed an extensive wardrobe to fit comfortably within a limited footprint.
User Considerations
Dressing circles will be designed for one or two users, with careful consideration of each individual’s height and reach to ensure full accessibility throughout the closet. Pull-down rods enable efficient use of every available square inch.
Essential Closet Features
- Include a full-length dressing mirror for convenience.
- Provide dedicated accessory storage for items such as jewelry, watches, and sunglasses.
- Choose drawer sizes based on the items being stored, with shallower drawers for socks or gloves, and deeper drawers for pajamas or sportswear.
- Incorporate racks for belts, ties, and scarves to keep these items organized.
- Add valet bars to assist with outfit planning and packing.
Lighting and Noise
Thoughtful consideration should be given to lighting needs and noise created to ensure comfort and usability in all scenarios. The sound of the hangers sliding on the rods or the click of the door latches can all be avoided.
Layered lighting is essential to support different points of use within the space. Proper task lighting allows for accurate wardrobe selection and ensures colors and patterns are clearly visible. Lower-level lighting or a subtle night light provides enough illumination to retrieve or put away items without disturbing someone sleeping in the adjacent space.
Upgraded Elements
Possible upgrades to enhance the closet include:
- An iron and ironing board
- A handheld steamer
- A steam closet
- A safe for storing valuables
Ventilation and Pest Prevention
Ensuring proper ventilation helps maintain a fresh environment within the closet. Additionally, steps should be taken to deter moths and other pests to protect garments and accessories. Store off-season clothing in dust covers or a separate cedar-lined closet.
Additional Storage Needs
Consider space for storing extra bedding and luggage, as these items may also need to be accommodated within the closet. Dedicated zones help keep infrequently used items organized and out of the way.
Ready to Build the Custom Closet You Deserve? Schedule your consultation today and take the first step toward a more organized, efficient, and beautiful dream closet with JM Construction.
