DIY Walk-In Closet Ideas That Blend Style and Function
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No matter how small, walk-in closets are the epitome of luxury. They're a great place to store clothes, shoes and accessories, but also to showcase your personality and experiment with design. Think beautiful built-ins, trendy paint colors, statement lighting — plus walls of high heels, designer bags and color-coordinated clothing. Whether you're hunting for design inspiration or organizing hacks, we've rounded up walk-in closet ideas that prioritize style and function.
Treat your walk-in closet as an extension of your bedroom design, even if it's small, narrow or awkwardly shaped (like an attic). Here, explore thoughtfully-designed closet layouts, from modern setups complete with center islands to simple spaces and compact rooms with floor-to-ceiling storage. Before you get started, consider these tips for designing an organized closet, courtesy of Desiree Washington, owner of Designs by Des.
✔️ Declutter, declutter, declutter. Donate or recycle anything you do not use or can no longer fit.
✔️ Only store clothing in your closet for the current season. "It keeps the clutter down and allows for accountability to declutter every other season."
✔️ Categorize and color coordinate. "I follow the order of the color spectrum along with shades, so clothing is easy to find and looks visually pleasing."
✔️ Embrace micro-organizational systems, like dividers, storage boxes and specialized hangers to use space more intentionally.
✔️ Label storage boxes. Store boxes and bins on higher shelves, while keeping everyday items at eye level.
Use a Mix of Storage
To accommodate your entire wardrobe, include a mix of drawers, shelves and clothing racks at various heights. Here, LA Closet Design folds jeans and sweaters, then hangs blouses and dresses. As for the drawers, it's a great place for socks, belts or other accessories.
Bring in Decorative Elements
Treat your walk-in closet just as you would your bedroom, as K Interiors does here with gorgeous built-ins, sleek gold hardware and a stylish dresser. The space is finished with tabletop decor and wall art.
RELATED: Clever Bedroom Storage Ideas to Keep Your Space Organized, No Matter How Small
Reserve Room for a Vanity
Make your morning routine a breeze by designing a full dressing room, just as Designs by Des does in this spacious area. Nestled under the window, a white desk serves as the perfect makeup station.
Keep Everything Hidden
Install closed storage and reserve the right to be a little disorganized behind closed doors. Here, designer Regan Baker opts for a tall wardrobe in a striking teal shade and an oversized mirror to make getting ready easy.
Make the Most of Awkward Spaces
To maximize function, Rebel Builders turns a spare space with a pitched roof into a walk-in closet. Built-ins provide plenty of room for hanging clothes and shelves for folded clothes, hats and accessories.
Let Clothes Act as Decor
Jeans, sweaters and shirts — when neatly folded — can look stylish and organized on open shelving. If aesthetics are important to you, take note from professional organizer Erica Thompson and put your most neutral items on display.
Prioritize a Seating Area
Whether it's a small ottoman or spacious bench, don't forget to include a comfortable place to sit — ideal for putting on and taking off shoes. For this luxe setup, designer Nicole Hirsch adds a curved bench with a bright white cushion.
Label Everything
Ensure every article — think dresses, shirts, hats, bags — has a designated place to prevent clutter. Professional organizer Danna Bitton of Organize Dwell also suggests utilizing as much vertical space as possible (try storing seasonal or less used items, like purses, up top).
Swap in Barn Doors
Here, designer Kate Lester trades basic closet doors for wood barn door. The swap allows for easy entering and exiting, but also adds a rustic touch to the bedroom design.
Pick a Pretty Shade
Charming design in the closet, whether a soothing paint color, patterned runner rug or striking pendant light, may inspire your OOTD. In this lovely space, Threshold Design used a pale blue-gray hue for the walls and custom built-ins.
Hang a Full-Length Mirror
If you intend to try on clothes in your closet, a full-length mirror is a must. To contrast the off-white walls and wardrobe in this cozy closet, Becca Galbraith of Becca Interiors brings in a patterned ottoman and positions it near the mirror.
Install Recessed Lighting
It's easier to find what you need in a well-lit closet. Recessed lighting — like Mrs. Paranjape Design + Interiors uses here — under shelving is the best way to ensure every area is illuminated.
Fold Clothes Neatly
Danna Bitton of Organize Dwell believes folded jeans, white T-shirts and sweatshirts can look neat and clean on a shelf. Just avoid folding items that will wrinkle easily, advises the organizing expert.
Go Glam With Gold Accents
When it comes to designing a functional closet, there's no need to skimp on style. For a dramatic touch, LA Closet Design uses black wood built-ins and shiny gold hardware and accessories.
Paint Cabinetry a Bright Hue
If you're nervous about incorporating bold paint colors in your main living spaces, experiment in the closet. Here, designer Erin Myers chooses a bright blue and adds glamorous gold hardware.
Consider Your Wardrobe
Choose a setup that makes your life easier — whether that means hanging jeans from hangers, keeping infrequently used sneakers in drop-front boxes or bringing in boxes to conceal accessories. "Consider your preference of hanging clothes versus folded, the length of your clothes, etc. — we see that mistake over and over," says Danna Bitton of Organize Dwell.
Consider Floor-to-Ceiling Cubbies
Cover an entire wall in cubbies, which are perfect for storing folded jeans, bags, shoes and wicker bins filled with smaller accessories. Feel free to paint them a pretty pink shade for a feminine touch.
See more at A Beautiful Mess »
Invest in a Chandelier
Luxuries, like a sputnik chandelier, will turn your walk-in closet into a place you adore using. To elevate the style, Organize Dwell displays a stunning collection of high heels.
Use Baskets High and Low
Use baskets to give everything a home. Keep anything that you may reach for more frequently in the lower baskets and put any off-season items up high.
Build a Functional Island
Islands are great to include in larger walk-in closets. Take inspiration from LA Closet Design and add a marble island to balance out a sleek white design.
Incorporate a Makeup Table
Bring a makeup table into your closet to help you get ready with ease. Store everyday products on a deep shelf, hang a mirror and throw in a cozy stool to create the ultimate setup.
See more at From Great Beginnings »
Make it Luxe
Featuring faux fur accents, marble countertops and a plush ottoman, this closet has an elegant look. Incorporate full-length mirrors throughout the space to make it look more spacious.
See more at LA Closet Design »
Take Advantage of Vertical Space
For a simple yet efficient fix, add dressers and shoe racks to your space. Don't forget to look up — extra luggage and bags can easily be stored on high shelves.
Create a Jewelry Wall
Instead of using jewelry boxes, drawers or shelves for your accessories, try hanging them on an empty wall. This makes it easier to showcase the pieces you own and find the perfect one to wear.
See more at A Beautiful Mess »
Make a Statement With Shelves
Install wallpaper behind shelves for a personal touch. Opt for colorful designs to make an impact in an all-white room.
Put Accessories on Display
The way you place accessories on shelves can determine the closet's overall look. Install light strips throughout to illuminate your collection.
See more at LA Closet Design »
Organize by Color
Color-coding your closet is appealing to the eye, but it also makes picking out an outfit so much easier. Hang a neon sign in a vibrant hue to personalize and brighten the space.
See more at LA Closet Design »
Install Purse Hangers
This walk-in closet has tons of drawers and shelf space for hats and shoes. Instead of displaying your bags on the shelves, find hooks to hang them.
Hang Shoes
While you can always stick your shoes directly on shelves, hang tall boots with special hangers to maximize space.
See more at LA Closet Design »
Go Full-on Neutral
This closet's neutral color exudes the feeling of sophistication. Here, bags and shoes are stored neatly on shelves; clothes are hung on rods; drawers are used for extra storage.
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