When you first realize you have a closet storage and organization problem it’s not uncommon for some to go through a “discovery” phase and look into all the types of closet organizer systems available on the market. Some will immediately dismiss organizer systems that are made of wire, hanging storage bags and tiered hangers while others will pursue a comparison of DIY closet organizer systems. Some will only consider a custom closet company such as ours, and will skip all of those other types of closet systems.
For those of you considering the DIY route or something close, such as buying the pieces at one of the popular home improvement stores and having your contractor or handy man install it, then this post is for you. Here are 4 reasons why it’s best not to create your own closet design and leave it up to the experts.
- Inventory is a key factor in creating a design that works for you now and in the future. The art of maximizing space, by combining items that are similar or work well together, does not come naturally for most people. When we conduct closet designer training some potential designers never fully grasp this concept and therefore never become one of our professional closet designers. Sad but true!
- Accessibility is critical to a good closet design. Most of us start with a closet that has wasted or impossibly hard to access space in the corners. Both walk-ins and reach-in closets alike. This is an area of closet frustration most all of us experience when we don’t have a good closet system installed. After years of designing closets you would not believe how many people don’t understand how to address corner space in a walk-in closet so that it optimizes storage, easy to access and looks good.
- Features help make the closet design. Sorry to say it but most DIY outlets have cheap ugly accessories and lack features such as doors to enclose special sections. Plus most of you don’t know which ones are must have items for your storage needs. A professional closet designer can show you which ones work best for the types of items you have and design them into your closet organizer system.
- Pullouts are items such as drawers, baskets, tray shelves and even specialty racks for pants, ties and belts. To properly use a pullout item it must be designed into a spot that allows it to pull forward. Although this seems to be common sense, it is often over looked. In all my years in this business I can’t tell you how often I have seen drawers and baskets that can only open a few inches before hitting a closet door and racks that slam into walls. This is why hiring a professional is key, so that all your closet space is used effectively.
- Depth of the closet system is another element that a skilled closet designer has to factor into the design. So many people think they need their closet organizer system to be built two feet deep. Closets are not standard in measurements. If your material is too deep you may wind up with a big mess or the possibility of it not fitting into the space altogether. One must factor in the items to be stored, if there is a header on reach-in closets and if it prevents accessibility to corners in both a walk-in and reach-in closet.
With over 20 years of closet design behind me I can tell you it’s not as easy as it seems. I have seen more DIY jobs that resulted in disaster then I can count. Do yourself a favor and call out a closet designer professional for you next project.
