Tips for designing your closet space

With most of us spending more time at home these days, we want to make the most of our living spaces, and our closets are no exception. We start our days choosing what to wear so having a space where everything has its place to make getting dressed easy and fun is so important.  

Whether you are doing a mini makeover, turning a spare room into a dream closet or designing from scratch, here are a few things to keep in mind.

Reflect

Before you do anything, take a moment to stop and think. 

Think about what improvements you can make with your space that support your life today.  What makes it easiest for you to get dressed?  Do you like open concepts so you can see everything at once?  Or would you prefer some things “hidden” behind cabinets and in drawers?  Design and organization go hand in hand - what layout will help you stay organized?

Edit

The last thing you want to do is put time and energy into creating a space for items you no longer use or love. Space is precious regardless of the size of your closet. Take the time to go through everything, yes, everything, and let go of what you no longer use, love or need.

Your new space should be filled with things that you love and fit who you are today. 

Categorize

Think beyond your basic groupings of tops, pants, shoes and make a list of the unique categories and collections based on how you live today.  “Yoga zone,” “Work from Home zone,” “Going out zone.” 

What will help you see what you have and make getting dressed easier?  

Hang or Fold

Most of us prefer one or the other… Which one is easiest for you?   If you are going to hang, allow 1/2 - 1” for per item so your clothes can breathe.  If you love drawers and have figured out how to file fold like a pro, plan for shallow drawers, so your clothes don’t get “lost” in deep drawers. 

Make it you

Make your space unique to you. What things can you include that simplify and make you feel good when you start your day? Maybe it’s a built in dresser where you can put some fresh flowers and personal frames, a bench or stool to sit on when you put on your shoes, a valet rod or two so you can hang options when deciding what to wear. 

It doesn’t matter if your closet is small or spacious.  With thoughtful planning, you can create a space that is functional and beautiful.