How to Design a Custom Closet For Your New Home

Designing a custom closet is an exciting opportunity to create a space tailored to your specific needs and lifestyle. Whether you're planning for a dual his-and-hers setup or a single shared closet, there are several key factors to consider to ensure that your closet is not only functional but also a joy to use. This article will walk you through the essential aspects of custom closet design, from layout considerations to specialized storage solutions, helping you create a closet that meets all your organizational needs.

1. Deciding Between Shared and Separate Closets

One of the first decisions you'll need to make when designing a custom closet is whether you and your partner will share the space or have separate closets. Both options have their benefits, and the choice largely depends on your personal preferences, the size of your home, and your daily routines.

Shared Closets

Sharing a closet can be a great way to maximize space, especially if you live in a smaller home or apartment. A shared closet requires careful planning to ensure that both partners have adequate space and that the layout is intuitive and easy to navigate. When designing a shared closet, consider:

• Zoning: Divide the closet into zones for each person. This can be done by assigning different sections of hanging space, shelves, and drawers to each partner.
• Symmetry: Create a balanced design by mirroring storage solutions on both sides of the closet. This can help create a sense of balance and make the space more visually appealing.

Separate Closets

If space allows, having separate closets can be a luxurious option that offers more personalized storage solutions. Each person can have a closet tailored specifically to their wardrobe and preferences, leading to a more organized and efficient space. When designing separate closets, consider:

• Customization: Each closet can be customized to fit the specific needs of the individual, from hanging space to shelving and specialized storage.
• Privacy: Separate closets offer a sense of privacy and independence, allowing each person to organize their space in a way that suits them best.
• Space Allocation: Ensure that the space allocated to each closet is proportional to the amount of clothing and accessories each person owns.
  

The Vista House, Great Falls, Virginia, AV Architects + Builders, Photography by Maxwell Mackenzie

2. Understanding Your Wardrobe Needs

Before diving into the design process, it's crucial to conduct a thorough audit of your wardrobe. Understanding what you own and how you use your clothing and accessories will guide your design decisions and help you create a closet that meets all your needs.

Long Hanging vs. Short Hanging

Closet hanging space can be categorized into long hanging and short hanging, each serving different types of clothing:

• Long Hanging: This space is designed for items like dresses, coats, and gowns. If your wardrobe includes a significant number of these pieces, be sure to allocate enough long hanging space in your closet design.
• Short Hanging: This area is ideal for tops, skirts, pants, and jackets. Short hanging sections can be stacked to maximize vertical space, providing more room for additional storage options like drawers or shelves.

Shelving for Folded Items

Certain clothing items, such as sweaters, t-shirts, and casual wear, are better suited to shelving than hanging. Hanging these items can stretch them out, leading to misshapen garments over time. When planning your closet, consider the following:

• Adjustable Shelves: Incorporate adjustable shelves to accommodate different types of folded clothing. This flexibility allows you to change the configuration as your wardrobe evolves.
• Open Shelving vs. Closed Cabinets: Decide whether you prefer open shelving, which keeps items visible and easily accessible, or closed cabinets, which can create a cleaner, more streamlined look.

Drawers for Athleisure and Athletic Wear

Athleisure and athletic wear, such as leggings, sports bras, and workout tops, are best stored in drawers. These items are often made of stretchy fabrics that can lose their shape if hung. Drawers also help keep these items organized and easy to find. Consider adding:

• Shallow Drawers: Perfect for smaller items like socks, undergarments, and accessories.
• Deep Drawers: Ideal for bulkier items like sweatshirts, yoga pants, or gym bags.
  

The Astron House, Great Falls, Virginia, AV Architects + Builders

3. Designing a Closet for Women

Women's wardrobes often include a diverse range of clothing and accessories, each requiring specific storage solutions. When designing a custom closet for a woman, consider the following elements:

Long Hanging for Dresses and Gowns

A well-designed closet should include ample long hanging space for dresses and gowns. This area should be tall enough to accommodate even the longest garments without them dragging on the floor.

Shoe Storage

Shoes are a significant part of many women's wardrobes, and they require careful consideration in the closet design:

• Angled Pull-Out Shoe Racks: Ideal for displaying and organizing heels and flats. These racks not only keep shoes in place but also make it easy to see and access your collection.
• Tall Space for Boots: Boots require a taller storage space to prevent them from getting squished or damaged. Consider adding dedicated shelving or cubbies specifically for boots.
• Sneaker Storage: If you're a sneaker enthusiast, consider incorporating pull-out shelves or clear boxes to keep your sneakers organized and protected.

Purse Storage

Purses and handbags are another important consideration. To keep them organized and in good condition:

• Cubbies or Open Shelves: These are ideal for storing and displaying handbags. Ensure that the shelves are deep enough to accommodate larger bags.

Accessory Storage

Accessories like jewelry, scarves, and belts need their own storage solutions:

Jewelry Drawers: Incorporate velvet-lined drawers with compartments for organizing rings, necklaces, and bracelets.

Belt and Scarf Racks: Dedicated racks keep these items organized and easy to find.

The Astron House, Great Falls, Virginia, AV Architects + Builders

4. Designing a Closet for Men

Men's wardrobes typically require different storage solutions, focusing on items like suits, ties, and shoes. When designing a custom closet for a man, consider the following elements:

Hanging Space for Suits and Shirts

Men's closets often need a combination of long hanging space for suits and short hanging space for shirts and pants. Ensure that there is enough room to keep these garments wrinkle-free and easily accessible.

Shoe Storage

Just like in a woman's closet, shoe storage is essential in a man's closet. Consider:

• Shoe Racks or Shelves: Organize shoes neatly on racks or shelves. For dress shoes, consider incorporating a pull-out shoe rack that keeps them in place and easy to access.
• Boot Storage: If you have a collection of boots, include tall shelves or dedicated cubbies to store them upright and in good condition.

Tie and Belt Storage

Ties and belts are small but essential accessories that require their own storage solutions:

• Tie Racks: A pull-out tie rack or a motorized tie rack can keep ties organized and wrinkle-free.
• Belt Hooks: Install hooks or a dedicated belt rack to keep belts tidy and within reach.

Hat Storage

For men who wear hats, whether baseball caps or fedoras, a dedicated storage solution can help maintain their shape and keep them organized:

• Hat Hooks: Wall-mounted hooks or pegs can hold hats in place while keeping them easily accessible.

Designing a Custom Closet for Your Dream Home

Designing a custom closet is about more than just creating a space to store your clothes—it's about creating a functional, organized, and personalized environment that enhances your daily routine. By carefully considering factors like shared versus separate closets, wardrobe needs, and specific storage solutions for different types of clothing and accessories, you can create a closet that not only meets your needs but also adds value to your home.

Whether you're designing a closet for a woman, a man, or both, the key is to focus on customization and functionality. With thoughtful planning and attention to detail, your custom closet can become a beautiful and practical space that makes getting dressed each day a pleasure.