Bedroom Closet Makeover: Diy Organization Ideas

A well-organised bedroom closet can make your life easier by saving you time and reducing stress. Whether you're looking for simple redesign tips or planning a complete overhaul, there are many ways to create a stylish and functional storage space. Before starting, it's important to assess your current closet situation and evaluate your storage needs. This includes decluttering and organising your belongings, taking stock of what you have, and measuring your existing space.

There are several options for customising your closet, ranging from DIY solutions to fully custom installations. DIY options include using plywood to line closet walls or create modular storage boxes, or building a scaffold system with industrial pipes and speed-rail fittings. For a quicker and more affordable solution, you can opt for ready-to-install closet systems that involve measuring your space and selecting a pre-designed kit. Semi-custom options provide more flexibility, while fully custom closets offer a perfect fit and high-end finishes.

Regardless of the approach you choose, there are numerous ways to maximise your closet's storage capacity and improve its organisation. This includes installing double hanging rods, utilising vertical space with adjustable shelving, incorporating comfortable seating, adding recessed lighting, and grouping clothing by colour and style. With some creativity and planning, you can transform your bedroom closet into a functional and stylish space.

Closet storage systems: laminate, wire, or hybrid

There are three basic types of storage systems designed for a standard 8 feet x 2 feet deep closet: laminate, wire, and a hybrid of the two. Each has the same basic components: a "tower" composed of drawers and shelves that provide the sturdy centre of the system; a single closet rod on one side for long clothes; and stacked closet rods on the other side to hang shirts and folded pants.

Laminate

Laminate closet systems are a sturdy option with more flair and design choices than wire systems. They are available in multiple colours and designs and can be customised to fit weird-sized or shaped closets. They are also easy to install sliding drawers in, for jewellery, scarves, or other small accessories. However, they are often more expensive than wire systems.

Wire

Coated wire systems are economical, versatile, and widely available. These vinyl or epoxy-coated wire systems allow you to clearly see the items in your closet and provide good air circulation. They are also durable and can support a good amount of weight if installed properly. However, they may leave unsightly "wire marks" on your clothes and smaller items may fall through the cracks.

Hybrid

A hybrid system combines the benefits of both laminate and wire systems. For example, you can have laminate shelves and drawers to prevent wire marks, while also having the good air circulation and visibility of a wire system.

Closet door ideas

There are many ways to get creative with your closet doors and turn them into a fun DIY project. Here are some ideas to get you started:

Sliding Doors

Sliding doors are a great option if you want to save on space. You can give your old sliding doors a makeover by adding trim and decals, or you can build your own sliding barn doors. For a modern boho look, try a sliding door made from MDF and Poplar board. If you're feeling extra creative, you can even turn your sliding doors into a chalkboard with chalkboard paint.

Hinged Doors

Hinged doors are a sturdier option and are less troublesome than bifold doors. Standard double doors are best for easy access, but do ensure you have enough room to swing them open. If floor space is limited, consider bifold doors instead.

French Doors

Add a pop of colour to your bedroom with French doors. You can even create a faux French door look by using an old door with an indented panel in the middle and adding trim and paint.

Curtains

If you're looking for a budget-friendly option, consider hanging curtains instead of installing doors. Match the curtains to your wall colour or wallpaper to disguise the contents of your closet.

Mirrors

While some people may not like mirrored closet doors, they can add light to the room and make a small room feel bigger. Bring them out of the 80s by adding a detail overlay in a modern design.

Wood Planks

Makeover flat panel closet doors with wood planks to create beautiful chevron-patterned doors.

Star Trim

For a cute and whimsical look, attach pre-made wooden stars against the door seam and paint them in a colour of your choice.

Cane

Cane detailing is a trending closet door style. You can add cane to the upper panels of bifold doors to create airflow in the closet while still hiding its contents.

Remember, when choosing a closet door style, consider the size and function of your space, and whether you want bifold, sliding, barn, or accordion doors. You can also make your closet doors more interesting by adding trim, molding, paint, wallpaper, or updating the hardware.

Closet lighting options

When designing a bedroom closet, lighting is an important feature to consider, both for safety and convenience. The right lighting can dramatically improve the functionality of your closet space. It is also an important feature for your wellbeing and preservation of eyesight.

• LED lights: LED lights are energy-efficient, long-lasting, and generate minimal heat. They are available in a range of wattages and can create different effects depending on the colour and the existing natural and ambient lighting. LED strip lights are another great option as they have an adhesive backing, making them easy to install.
• Dimmers: Dimmers allow you to alter the light intensity, providing more customisation and control over the lighting in your closet.
• Ribbon lighting: Installing ribbon lighting above the closet rod will create brightness at both ends, improving visibility for your wardrobe.
• Recessed puck lighting: Installing recessed puck lighting around the top perimeter of the cabinetry will enhance the overall lighting scheme and can also be used to spotlight treasured pieces.
• Base lighting: Illuminating the base of the closet can give it a contemporary floating look and create a bold statement.
• Track lighting or light bars: Adjustable lights that can be directed to specific areas of the closet, ensuring you never mistake navy for black again!
• Chandelier or pendant light: Create a stunning look with a flush-mount chandelier or pendant light, perfect for smaller closets.
• Twinkly lights: String lights add a whimsical and calm vibe to your closet and come in a variety of colours and styles.
• Natural light: If your closet has a window, keep it clear of clutter and use a lightweight and airy window treatment to let in as much natural light as possible.
• Motion-sensing light: A motion-sensing LED light installed on the ceiling can be a life-changing upgrade, automatically illuminating the closet as soon as you open the door.
• Table lamp: A small table lamp with a sophisticated design can provide ambient lighting and is a good option if you only want to illuminate a specific corner of the closet.
• Under-cabinet lighting: Slim and unassuming, under-cabinet lighting is motion-activated, has multiple brightness levels, and is easy to install with an adhesive magnetic strip.

DIY shelves

First, assess your storage needs. Take stock of your belongings and separate them into categories. For example, divide hanging clothes into short and long items, and measure the height of each pile to determine the required length for your hanging rods. Also, consider how much space you will need for foldable items and accessories like ties, belts, and shoes.

Next, measure your existing closet space. Take into account the width, depth, and height of the entire closet, as well as any obstacles such as electrical outlets or light switches. Don't forget to measure the width of your closet door to ensure that any new shelves will fit through.

When designing your shelves, keep in mind that the ideal reach-in closet is typically 6-8 feet wide and 24-30 inches deep. Shelf depths can vary from 12 inches for folded clothes to 16 inches for bulkier items. If you plan to hang clothes, ensure that the closet interior is at least 26 inches deep.

Now it's time to choose your materials. You can use ready-made storage components or build your own custom shelves. If you opt for custom shelves, consider using 3/4-inch hardwood plywood to line the closet walls, allowing you to attach rods and shelves wherever needed. Alternatively, build plywood boxes that can be slid into place for modular storage or create a scaffold system using industrial pipe and speed-rail fittings for an adjustable framework.

Finally, it's time to install your shelves. If you're using ready-made components, follow the manufacturer's instructions for installation. If you're building your own shelves, you may need tools like a drill, a circular saw, and a power miter box. Make sure to measure twice and cut once to ensure a precise fit. Install the shelves securely, following best practices for your chosen materials and hardware.

With these tips, you'll be well on your way to creating functional and stylish DIY shelves for your bedroom closet.

Closet accessories

Accessories are an important part of any DIY bedroom closet project. They can help you make the most of your space and keep your clothes and belongings organised. Here are some ideas for closet accessories to consider:

Hanging Solutions

One of the primary functions of a closet is to provide a space to hang clothes. Basic closets might consist of a single rod, but you can also install multiple rods at different heights to maximise space. For example, you can hang folded trousers above shirts and coats, making everything easier to see and access. You can also install a pull-out rack to keep trousers wrinkle-free. If you have a walk-in closet, you might also want to include a freestanding clothing rack, which is a budget-friendly and stylish option.

Shelving

Shelving is a great way to utilise space in your closet and can be used to store clothing, shoes, toys, or accessories. You can install fixed shelves or opt for adjustable shelving, which offers more flexibility if your storage needs change over time. For example, adjustable shelving is a good choice for kids' closets, which often require frequent reorganisation. You can also buy ready-made storage components that feature drawers and shelves, making it easy to organise your belongings.

Shoe Storage

There are various options for storing shoes in your closet. You can purchase a shoe rack or opt for over-the-door shoe storage to save space. Clear shoe boxes or shoe shelves are another way to keep your shoes organised and on display. If you have limited space, try a storage cube with bins for your shoes.

Lighting

Consider adding lighting to your closet to brighten up your everyday items and make it easier to find what you're looking for. You can add small LED lights to each shelf or install recessed lighting for a more subtle effect. A freestanding lamp is another option if you want to add lighting to your closet.

Dividers and Containers

Dividers and containers can help you organise your belongings and make the most of your closet space. For example, you can use adjustable clear shelf dividers to give each purse or handbag its own space and help them retain their shape. You can also use bins, baskets, or drawers to store smaller items such as belts, socks, sunglasses, or cufflinks.

Frequently asked questions