Custom closet systems can boost functionality, add space and improve closet organization.
Spending money to build your dream closet may sound frivolous, but those who have made the switch say custom closet systems are life altering.
Think about how much time you spend in the morning hunting through your closet for clothes to wear to work. You’re probably in such a hurry that it adds even more stress to your already busy morning. But it doesn’t have to be that way.
Closet storage designs are plentiful, whether you choose to have a custom closet or organize it all by yourself.
Homeowners and contractors alike agree that remodeling your closet so it works for you can eliminate stress, and help you find that pair of shoes that always seems to disappear.
How much do closet organizers cost?
If you’re DIY minded, you can purchase a closet organizer from a home design store for less than $500. There are some nice options which include racks, drawers and shelving, but you would be responsible for installation. Of course consulting with a professional closet designer and installer will cost more, but he or she will handle the details and provide you the closet of your dreams.
“We’ve gotten used to having a lot of shelves in our closet,” says Ocean City, Maryland, Angie’s List member Kathleen Lambros. “There’s no turning back. It makes it so easy because you can see everything right in front of you. You don’t have to root around in drawers. It’s all right in front of you.”
Lambros is such a fan of her custom closet that she plans to pay extra to add one in the new home she’s building.
“If you start your day bad, your whole day’s bad,” says Noel Sweeney, owner of highly rated Eco-Nize Closets of Clifton, Virginia. “Think of all the time you save when you’re not having to look for stuff. It’s good value. Not only are you improving your lifestyle; you’re actually adding value to your house.”
Custom closets typically cost $2,000 to $5,000, with most people spending around $3,500. Sweeney says he often completes the closet construction in a day.
What makes a good closet?
What makes a closet great depends on personal needs. Sweeney starts with a free consultation and takes inventory of shoes, long-hang, medium-hang or single-hang items. He asks men whether they hang their pants long or prefer to fold them in half, whether the homeowners have a lot of jewelry and if they want to store the pieces in velvet-lined drawers.
Robert Morse, owner of Premiere Closets of Odessa, Florida, says problems with wire shelves and a lack of shoe storage and space are common reasons why homeowners want to upgrade their closets. Morse says customers’ wants often include adding drawers, tie and belt racks and a place to store shoes and long-hanging items.
Redington Beach, Florida, member Christine Edwards upgraded her closet after the wire shelving, installed by the previous owner, began to fall.
“You pretty much see everything that’s in there,” Edwards says. “I even have extra shelving space I put in for our linen. It’s a huge convenience. We’ve moved a lot in our married lives, like every couple of years, so we’re always looking for resale [value]. I’m sure this is going to be a huge selling point.”
Editor’s Note: This is an updated version of an article originally posted on Nov. 14, 2014. This article was originally published at Angie’s List.