Closet remodeling is a great way to improve the functionality, organization, and aesthetic appeal of your home. Whether you’re upgrading an outdated closet or transforming a small space into a custom walk-in closet, the process can be both exciting and rewarding. A well-designed closet not only adds value to your home but also makes it easier to stay organized and keep your belongings neatly stored.
In this blog, we will guide you through the process of remodeling a closet step by step, from design and planning to installation and finishing touches. Let’s get started!
Table of Contents
Why Remodel Your Closet?
Step 1: Planning and Defining Your Goals
Assess Your Needs
Set a Budget
Consider the Closet Size and Layout
Step 2: Design Your New Closet
Choosing the Right Closet Type
Storage Solutions and Features
Materials and Finishes
Step 3: Preparing for the Remodel
Clear the Space
Gather Tools and Materials
Hire a Pro or Do It Yourself
Step 4: Removal and Demolition
Step 5: New Closet System Installation
Shelves and Rod Installation – Installing
Installing Drawers and Cabinets
Step 6: Finishing Touches and Organizing
Painting and Touch Ups
Organizing Your Possessions
Step 7: Tips on Maintenance
Conclusion
- Why Remodel Your Closet?
A closet makeover can offer several benefits to your home. It allows you to maximize storage, achieve a functional and organized layout, and transform the area. Whether you’re planning to design a luxurious walk-in closet, renovate your existing reach-in closet, or simply increase storage in a small space, the benefits are clear:
Greater Storage Capacity: Closet makeover allows you to make the most of your available space.
Better Organization: Custom closet systems help maintain your belongings well-organized and easy to find.
Better Aesthetic Appeal: An organized closet adds aesthetic appeal to your home and gives you a more pleasant space to get dressed.
Better Home Value: An organized, modern closet can increase the value of your home during selling time.
- Step 1: Planning and Defining Your Goals
Before you start with any closet remodeling undertaking, planning must be done meticulously and there must be clear goals in mind for the makeover.
Assess Your Needs
Start by considering your closet condition today. Do you lack storage space? Is your closet disorganized and difficult to navigate? Do you need more hanging room, or do you want more drawer space for folded clothes?
Consider your requirements and set priorities. A closet renovation is an opportunity to create a space that is best suited to you.
Set a Budget
Renovations to closets can be as basic as upgrades or complete custom installations. Set a budget that will fit your plans. A minimal renovation could be new shelving and rods, while a more elaborate project may have custom cabinets, lighting, and high-tech storage solutions.
Be sure to put labor, materials, and any other potential unexpected costs in. It’s always a good idea to have a little buffer for any surprises.
Consider the Closet Size and Layout
Closet styles vary based on the space available. Ask yourself if your existing closet is a reach-in closet, walk-in closet, or perhaps a custom wardrobe. The design of your closet will determine storage capacity, how many items it will be able to hold, and overall convenience.
- Step 2: Design Your New Closet
This step is about taking your objectives and requirements and converting them into a functional and fashionable design.
There are several closet systems to select from, each suited for various spaces and functions:
Reach-In Closets: Less in length and typically with one rod, containing little shelf space. Reach-in closets are ideal for cramped spaces, but can be adapted by incorporating sliding doors, shelves, and multi-level rods.
Walk-In Closets: Larger closets that provide ample space for storage, typically having shelves, hanging rods, drawers, and even a seating area. Walk-ins are highly customizable, so you can create a luxurious, neat space.
Wardrobe Closets: For bedrooms that don’t have an existing closet space, wardrobe closets are self-supporting storage units that contain shelves, drawers, and rods.
Storage Solutions and Features
Consider what types of things you must store in your closet. Some of the most sought-after things to store are:
Shelving: Folded garments, shoes, and accessories should be stored on open or closed shelving. Adjustable shelving provides flexibility to storage.
Hanging Rods: Mount multiple hanging rods at differing heights to store dresses, pants, shirts, and jackets.
Drawers and Cabinets: Built-in drawers and cabinets help maintain small items well organized and dust-free. They are specifically useful for storing jewelry, belts, and scarves.
Shoe Racks: Built-in or separate shoe storage helps keep shoes well organized and easily accessible.
Pull-out Accessories: Pull-out baskets, hampers, and tie racks are excellent accessories for keeping small items or laundry in order.
Materials and Finishes
The materials and finishes you employ in your closet contribute significantly to its durability, beauty, and functionality. You can employ wood finishes, laminated panels, metal, and glass for doors and shelves. Light finishes open up space and create a clean, fresh atmosphere, and dark finishes impart an elegance and sophistication.
- Step 3: Preparing for the Remodel
Once you have your design finalized, it is time to clear the space to renovate.
Clear the Space
Remove all of your clothes, shoes, and accessories from your closet. This will give you a blank slate to start from and allow you to assess the state of the closet structure.
Gather Tools and Materials
Depending on whether you want to hire a professional or do it yourself, acquire tools and materials necessary for the job. These may encompass:
Measuring tape
Level
Drill and screws
Saw (for cutting shelves or rods)
Paint or wood finish (if customizing surfaces)
Hire a Professional or DIY
If you’re not up to the task of installing a new closet system yourself, then hiring someone is best. Complicated installations can be handled by contractors, carpenters, or closet designers. If you feel confident in your abilities, then you may want to go for a DIY method with pre-fabricated closet kits or custom systems from stores like IKEA or The Container Store.
- Step 4: Demolition and Removal
For a full remodel, you may need to remove installed shelves, rods, or outdated closet systems. Remove and recycle any old components with caution. If your current closet has wallpaper, peeling paint, or outdated carpeting, you may need to address these areas first before new installations. - Step 5: Installation of New Closet Systems
This is the excitement of the project: building your new closet. Start with putting in any of the bigger items, such as shelves or rods. Follow this:
Install the Framework: First, hang the frame of the closet onto the wall so everything is level.
Add Shelves and Rods: Hang shelving and hanging rods according to your design. Adjustable shelves are great for versatility.
Install Cabinets or Drawers: If your plan features built-in storage such as drawers, thoroughly read and follow the installation guide to make sure they are functional and properly installed.
- Step 6: Final Touches and Organization
Having installed your closet system, it’s now time to put the finishing touches and arrange your stuff.
Painting and Touch-Ups
If you’ve used raw wood or unfinished materials, apply a coat of paint or wood finish for a polished look. Choose a color that complements your bedroom or bathroom decor.
Organizing Your Belongings
Now comes the fun part: organizing your clothes, shoes, accessories, and other items. Use baskets, bins, or dividers to help sort like things. Place your most frequently used items in easy-to-reach places, and less-used items can be stored on higher shelves or in more out-of-the-way drawers.
- Step 7: Maintenance Tips
To keep your newly organized closet looking its best, follow these simple maintenance tips:
Keep it Clean: Organize and clean out your closet every few months to ensure that it remains useful and untidy.
Clean Regularly: Dust and clean shelves, rods, and drawers to keep all items fresh.
Use Proper Hangers: Use solid, proper hangers that will maintain the shape of your clothes without creating sagging.
Adjust Storage: As and when your needs change with time, adjust shelves and rods according to changing storage needs.
- Conclusion
Closet remodeling is a great means to increase functionality and beauty to your home. If you are creating a small storage area or a luxurious walk-in closet, utilizing a step-by-step procedure will guarantee that your project proceeds efficiently and meets your needs. By planning out your remodel cautiously, making the right design choice, and implementing effective storage features, you can enjoy a highly functional and very beautiful closet for many years.