We recently finished building a home, and the most fun (and difficult) part of the whole process was in designing the closets. We had a long list of requirements: separate his and hers closets, plugs for our phones, iPads, and laptops, windows for natural lighting, seating, jewelry drawers, watch cases, open display for pretty shoes, hidden display for running shoes, the list goes on and on.
Anyway, if you’ve been dreaming about a new closet, you’re not alone. Closets are now the most important rooms in high-end homes, since many of us can’t cook, but who doesn’t love shoes? So we went straight to the top and here’s what we learned:
1) Turn your closet into a sitting room by adding plush seating and a fabulous crystal chandelier.
2) Add pull-out telescoping bars or valet hooks so you can easily preview your outfits.
3) Build your closets to the ceiling; store out-of-season items and suitcases high up.
4) Floor-to-length mirrors are key: the more, the better.
5) Properly lit and displayed, everything can look like an art gallery. And while you’re at it, an espresso machine wouldn’t hurt.
6) Organize everything by type, and then by color. And all those shoe boxes you’ve been saving? Get rid of them … they are taking up too much space.
7) Add clear shelves so you can see all your accessories at a glance: sunglasses, jewelry, watches.
8) Good lighting is key: LED hanging rods and backlit displays for a modern feel …
… or picture lights for a classic look. And while you’re staring at Nate’s closet below, do you see how inviting that yellow ottoman looks?
9) Layer in your favorite accessories: these could be fashion books, pictures of your family, or vintage hats. And how cool is the helmet in this closet?
10) Keep a pair of laundry baskets handy: one for dark clothes, one for light. And if you have room, also keep a bag for items to be donated or repaired.
11) Borrow a tip from the pros: keep a locked safe for jewels, cash, and important documents. You can hide this behind a mirror.
12) Place gowns and special clothes behind glass doors.
13) Add a vase of fresh flowers, fragrance, and a tray for keys, wallet, and phones.
14) Replace all your old hangers with slim, velvet-colored hangers. You’ll fit more items, and they’ll all hang at the same height. And while you’re at it, remove all dry cleaning bags.
15) Edit, edit, edit. If you haven’t worn it in five years, donate it. If you haven’t worn it in one year, try it on to make sure it fits. Trust us: you need to clear space so you can go shopping again!
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