Everybody dreams of the perfect closet design — one where you can see all of your clothing and shoes without digging through boxes, bags, or clothes hung too close together. If you’re thinking it’s time for a closet redo, or if you’re planning to add a walk-in closet to your Dallas-area home, here are some tips to create the closet of your dreams.

Bigger Isn’t Always Better

Most homeowners dream of a giant walk-in closet, but bigger isn’t always better if the closet is poorly designed. Today, even smaller closets can be customized with much more than a couple of racks and shelves: With options like drawers, cubbies, and shoe storage, you don’t need a huge space to achieve organizational nirvana.

But if you do go big, don’t just pack the closet with stuff. If you’ve got the space, create a dressing area with a mirror and a chair or bench where you can sit to put on your shoes — you could even put in a vanity.

When Space Is at a Premium

Older homes simply don’t have the closet space that you’ll find in new construction. But with a little planning, even a small 1970s-era closet can be incredibly functional. For example, Dallas-based Modern Craft Construction added elegant mirrors with trim to bifold closet doors. Not only are the mirrors functional, they also make the room look larger.

Beyond Built-Ins

Although everybody would love closets with built-in storage, it’s not always feasible, depending on the limitations of the home’s design or the remodel budget. Still, you can create the feel of built-ins in your closet design with chests of drawers, wooden cubbies, and shelving.

Want to make over your entire closet yourself? With a trip to the Container Store or Ikea, you can come home with shelving, drawers, bins, and more. Before you shop, take measurements and consider what you’re going to put in the closet — make sure there’s enough space for shoes, longer-hanging items, and shelves or drawers for sweaters and T-shirts.

Don’t Forget the Lighting

There’s no point to redesigning closet space if you can’t see what’s in it. Be sure to add adequate lighting. Most walk-in closets have a simple bare bulb, but you can dress it up with a simple light fixture placed close to the ceiling. For bigger closet spaces, consider recessed lighting or a dramatic pendant fixture.

With a little planning, you can create a great closet with the right storage and style to complement your home.

Image Source: Flickr/Dan Budiac

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