The Common Reach-In Closet: Can it still Sparkle?
Going Vertical Just One Way To Maximize Space
We’ve probably all tried to live with our closets having just a single hanging rod and a shelf above. Most people don’t need a whole closet of long-hanging space, so the area below the hanging clothes ends up full of boxes and bins of stuff that won’t fit elsewhere. The depth is limited and the ceiling height can be high. People hope they can fit bulky items on the top shelf, but with only a narrow space between it and the doorway, they just don’t fit.
So, how do you find a way to work with the reach-in closet? Please try these expert tips. We’re certain you’ll have a happier relationship with your space, and find some beautiful sparkle too.
This reach-in closet is a collaboration with Wendy Interiors. Photo credit: Peter Braune
Use Principal of Verticality
This is the cure for the single rod-and-shelf conundrum. Add a storage system that includes double-hanging rods or shelves above half-hanging. Most clothing fits within half-hanging, and you’ll double your storage space. If you’re using a reach-in closet for off-season storage, consider setting it up with double hanging, long hanging and shelves for sweaters (so they don’t stretch out on hangers).
Drawer placement essential
If you want drawers, pull-out baskets or a hamper, they must be in the center of the swinging doors. This is necessary so the drawers can be opened easily, and so you can reach beyond them into the corners of the reach-in closet. And if there’s only a pair of sliding doors, that’s more limiting. You can have small pull-outs, but be very careful when measuring to make sure they’ll work in the open door opening.
Shelves keep It harmonious
Adding some shelves keeps the whole closet neater. It’s room for shoes, folded clothes, hats and scarves. With a custom-built closet system, the shelves are adjustable to adapt to the changing needs of your family. Ask your contractor to miter back the top shelf, to make it a narrower dimension. This provides a little more space for bulky items to fit through.
Children’s closets with adjustable features
Ask about having an extra closet rod to add in when your child needs larger sized clothes. With a custom closet system, the adjustable shelves can be removed, transforming a shelving unit into half-hanging, with a little planning ahead. Toy closets are usually reach-in closets as well. Just work with your contractor to make sure the storage system will accommodate the size and weight of the toys. And consider leaving space below the bottom shelves to roll in children’s toy cars and toy carriages.
Above all, your space should work for you. A house full of reach-in closets can provide great storage for your family, as long as it’s designed to fulfill your particular needs. A reach-in closet can be beautiful as well as functional, just use some of the tips and you’ll see.
