Creative Closets

If there’s one thing every homeowner wishes for, it’s more closet space – well, female homeowners, anyway.  You’d think with this topping everyone’s list, builders would get the hint and add more closet space, but they never do.   How can you add to your closet space without a complete home renovation?

Clothing Storage Racks

Hang them up and move them out – strong, sturdy metal rolling racks are a quick fix for closet space.  Go for quality metal that won’t bend or break under the weight of heavy winter clothing.  Even better are the racks with canvas covers to keep clothing from getting dusty, damaged or faded.

The racks can go anywhere, a large laundry room, a basement or a guest room.  Expect to pay in the range of $60 or more for a sturdy rack, much less than adding a closet.

Guest Rooms

No guest can use a whole closet for themselves, and if they can, then maybe they’re overstaying their welcome!  Takeover the guest room closet to store out of season clothing.  Better yet, make your spouse use the guest room closet instead.  Just leave a little room in case the guest does show up!

Dedicated Closets

This won’t be your most budget-friendly option, but it sure does work.  Take the tiny guestroom that’s never used, or the little office down the hall that no one has been in for the last year, and turn in to a mega closet.  Outfit it with all the tricks - bars, shelving and drawers.  You’ll thank yourself.  You can do it yourself for under $500 for the supplies. 

I have to admit, this was my luxury expense when we purchased a Victorian home with no closets.  A small office off the master bath was transformed into walk-in heaven.  I’m usually a do-it-yourselfer for almost any project not involving electricity, but this had me stumped with radiators, doors and windows covering almost all the wall space.  We actually hired a closet designer who came up with a great solution of a ‘peninsula’ within the room.  It’s the one splurge I’ve never regretted.  We paid $3,000 for this transformation, but to me, it was a necessity. 

If you’re sorely lacking in closet space, it could be a detracting factor from your home’s value, and may be worth the expense.  At least that’s how I justified it.