Last Updated on June 19, 2025 by teamobn
Your closet is a reflection of your personal style. It is also a functional area in your day-to-day life and an area of comfort. You may be starting from scratch or reworking an existing closet area. Whatever it is, your ideal closet requires more than just installing some hangers. It is about combining the elements of planning, style, and practical applications based on your daily living. Here are seven design recommendations that will help you create a closet that not only looks good but is also functional.
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Let Your Lifestyle Inform the Layout
Before deciding on finishes or color palettes, take some time to think about how you use your wardrobe. Ask the following important questions:
- Do you wear formal clothes every day?
- Do you live in activewear and athleisure every day?
- Do you have a bunch of shoes or accessories?
- Are you someone who travels often that would have to pack and unpack your bags all the time?
Designing a plan that reflects your lifestyle helps make your closet visually pleasing and functional. You may need hanging rods for dresses and coats, short double rods for shirts and pants, and shelves or drawers for folded clothing. If you are sharing the closet with a partner, you may need to make a separate section to minimize clutter and confusion.
Take Advantage of Vertical Space
Most people underutilize the height of their closets. One of the best design moves you can make is going high and maximizing vertical space. This doesn’t only double your available space but it also hides less used items while still allowing you access when needed.
Install shelving on different levels with multiple rods at different heights for clothing. You can also take advantage of adjustable shelving above and around the rods. Use them for your bags, shoes, and accessories. Use your ceiling height for seasonal items, luggage or keepsakes. You can even use the back of the closet door for hooks or narrow racks to hold belts, scarves, or ties. Using height allows you to arrange your closet by function while keeping everything out of sight.
Think About Custom Cabinetry and Built-Ins
Built-in organizers can impact both the functionality and aesthetic of your closet. You don’t need a high-end home to create a custom closet design. Many homeowners are using semi-custom or modular closet systems that provide beauty and flexibility.
For example, a bank of drawers is a great way to store items such as underwear and socks or even jewelry, and create some visible space on your shelves. If you have shoes or purses you would like to showcase, glass-front cabinet doors can prevent dust while showing off a few of your favorites.
If you have sufficient space in large walk-in closets, a central island with drawers or a counter can provide additional storage and space to lay out your outfits. You can also use it as a place to pack your suitcase. Even one custom element, like a pull-out pant rack or valet rod, can give your space a high-end feel.
Pay Attention to Lighting for Function and Ambience
Lighting is one of the least considered aspects of closet design, yet it is a key component for both functional use and ambience. Without proper lighting it can be difficult to see color or find things. The right lighting can give you a boutique experience in your closet beyond providing proper function.
Start with bright, overhead lighting that illuminates the entire closet- preferably bright, white LEDs for energy efficiency and color accuracy. Consider accent lighting like LED strips under shelves or inside drawers. They help create a level of sophistication and make it easier to find small items.
In a large space, a chandelier or pendant light can also be a statement piece to set the mood. Consider installing motion sensors so the lights can automatically turn-on as you enter the closet.
Create a Cozy Dressing Area
If you have enough space, make a small dressing area in your closet to help improve its functionality. You don’t need a fancy dressing area because even a small bench or vanity bench can help.
A dressing area could include a mirror to view outfits, a stool or ottoman for seating, and a surface to drop accessories or plan for your day’s outfit. If you also include makeup or advanced grooming in your getting ready routine, include a lit vanity mirror and a few drawers to store makeup and grooming supplies.
Add your personal touch with framed artwork, wallpaper, or a soft area rug to make the space feel more like a cozy dressing area.
Select Finishes that Match Your Style
The finishes and materials you select will change the look and feel of your closet significantly. Look for a happy balance between function and personal expression.
High gloss surfaces, mirrored surfaces and glass doors make small closets look open and stylish. Wood tones create warmth and richness, and neutral palettes like white or grey keep it fresh and timeless. If you feel adventurous, introduce a pop of color in end panels or drawer fronts.
Use the Right Storage Accessories
The only difference between a good closet and a great closet is organization! When you purchase the right storage accessories, you will have a place for everything, and everything is easy to access.
If you want to utilize space properly, use dividers and bins that separate and categorize everything as opposed to piling them onto a shelf. Drawer organizers are great for separating jewelry, ties, watches, or lingerie.
Velvet hangers make your closet look uniform, prevent clothing from slipping off, and take up less space in your closet. Clear containers and labeled boxes allow you to store off-season items while still seeing inside.
Endnote
Designing your dream closet doesn’t require a complete overhaul or a big budget. With some solid planning and a few tweaks, any closet can become a beautiful, highly functional space that works for you and improves your home. Think about what you need and design a closet that is functional and pretty.
