Open Closet In Bedroom: Creative Ways To Save Space

Open closets are a trendy and practical solution for displaying your wardrobe or creating the illusion of more space in your bedroom. They can be easily customised to fit your aesthetic and storage needs, but they also come with the challenge of keeping the space organised and free from clutter. Here are some tips to help you create a stylish and functional open closet in your bedroom.

Choose the right materials

When creating an open closet, choosing the right materials is essential to ensure your closet is durable, functional, and aesthetically pleasing. Here are some factors to consider when selecting materials for your open closet:

Wood

Wood is a classic choice for closet systems, offering durability and a timeless appeal. Solid hardwood, such as oak, maple, and cherry, is an excellent option for shelves and hanging rods due to its exceptional strength and sophistication. Plywood is another versatile and durable option, consisting of multiple layers of wood veneers glued together. It is less prone to warping and more affordable than solid hardwood. If you're looking for a cost-effective alternative, MDF (Medium Density Fiberboard) is an engineered wood product that provides a smooth surface for painting or veneering. However, MDF may not be as strong as solid wood or plywood and is more susceptible to damage.

Metal Wire and Metal Freestanding Systems

Metal wire and metal freestanding closet systems are a popular choice for their durability, minimal design, and ease of installation. They come in different varieties, such as wire shelving or metal freestanding closet systems, allowing you to choose the option that best suits your space.

Manufactured Wood

If you want the look of wood without the high price tag, manufactured wood is an excellent alternative. These closet systems are durable, long-lasting, and can add a polished look to your open closet while being more affordable.

Fabric

Fabric closet systems are often supported by a metal frame and provide additional storage for folded clothing items. They are a great way to add extra storage space to your open closet without breaking the bank.

Melamine Boards

Melamine boards are an excellent choice for closet surfaces and drawers due to their remarkable durability. The fusion of paper and particleboard with resin creates a tough outer layer that resists scratches, moisture, and heat. Melamine boards are ideal for areas that experience frequent use, ensuring your closet maintains its sleek appearance for years.

Laminates

Laminates are composed of layers of paper or fabric impregnated with resin and fused onto a core material. They create a highly durable surface that is resistant to impact, scratching, and fading. Laminates are commonly used for closet doors, drawer fronts, and surfaces, offering both style and longevity to your open closet.

Glass

Custom-cut glass elements, such as mirrored panels, glass shelves, and illuminated displays, can add a touch of opulence to your open closet. Glass infuses a sense of grandeur and modernity, reflecting light to create an open and elegant atmosphere.

Customise your hanging rod options

When it comes to customising your hanging rod options, there are several things to consider. Firstly, decide whether you want a single-rod or double-rod system. A single-rod system offers one tier of hanging space, while a double-rod system provides an additional rod mounted a few feet below the top rod, maximising your hanging space. If you opt for a single-rod system, it should be mounted 66 inches above the floor. This height ensures that long coats, skirts, pants, dresses, and suits can hang without brushing the floor or becoming creased.

For a double-rod system, the top rod should be mounted at 81¾ inches, and the lower rod at 40½ inches. This setup allows for everyday items such as shirts, blouses, and folded pants to be hung on the lower bar, with less frequently worn items on the top rod. If you're installing a double-rod system for a child, mount the lower rod at 30 inches to make it accessible for them.

It's also important to consider the depth of your hanging rod. The rod should be placed at least 12 inches from the rear wall of the closet to prevent garments from wrinkling by being pushed against the wall. The average closet depth is 24 inches, so this spacing will ensure your clothes remain crease-free.

If you're feeling creative, you can make your own DIY hanging rod. All you need is a hardwood dowel, eye screws, chain, chain links, and S-hooks. Cut the dowel to your desired length, drill pilot holes, and install the eye screws at each end. Attach the chain to the top closet rod and the eye hooks, adjusting the height as needed. This method allows for customisation of the rod's height and length to fit your closet perfectly.

Additionally, consider the placement of your open closet in the bedroom. If you have limited space, utilise vertical space by installing hanging rods above a dresser or purchasing a freestanding garment rack. You can also use curtains or screens to create a sense of privacy around your open closet.

Incorporate shoe cubbies

Shoe cubbies are a visually appealing and space-efficient way to store your shoes in an open closet. Here are some tips to incorporate them effectively:

Measure Your Space

Before purchasing or installing shoe cubbies, measure your available space to ensure it can accommodate various shoe sizes. Each cubby should be able to hold at least one pair of shoes. Additionally, consider the height of the cubbies, placing frequently worn shoes at an easily reachable level.

Adjustable Cubby Dividers

For added flexibility, use adjustable cubby dividers. This way, you can adapt the space to accommodate different shoe types, such as boots or sandals, ensuring an optimal fit for your footwear.

Mix of Open and Closed Cubbies

Opt for a combination of open and closed cubbies. Closed cubbies allow you to hide less attractive shoes, while open cubbies showcase your favourite pairs, adding to the decorative aspect of your open closet.

Lighting

Consider adding lighting to your shoe cubbies. A light above or within the cubbies will enhance visibility and add a touch of elegance to your shoe display.

Cohesive Design

To create a cohesive look, match the material and colour of your shoe cubbies with the overall design scheme of your open closet. This will help integrate the shoe storage seamlessly into the space.

Additional Tips

• Declutter: Before setting up your open closet, go through your shoes and consider donating, swapping, or selling any pairs you no longer need. This will help ensure you have enough space for the shoes you plan to keep and love.
• Organise by Frequency of Use: Place the shoes you wear most often at eye level, with medium-use shoes at a lower level and infrequently worn shoes at the top.
• Customise Your Hanging Rods: Adjustable, multi-level, and pull-down rods can increase the functionality of your open closet, accommodating different clothing lengths and making the most of your vertical space.
• Add a Mirror: Incorporate a large mirror into your open closet design. It will not only be practical for outfit checks but can also create the illusion of a larger space. Position the mirror to capture the most natural light without being obstructed by open drawers or doors.

Install a large mirror

A large mirror is a great way to make your bedroom feel more spacious and brighter. Here are some tips and instructions for installing a large mirror in your bedroom:

Choosing the Right Mirror

When selecting a mirror, consider the shape and size that will best complement your bedroom. Large, free-standing mirrors are a popular choice as they can serve as a focal point and draw attention. If you want to create a sophisticated atmosphere, angular shapes such as squares, rectangles, or diamonds can help give your room a refined and orderly appearance. On the other hand, rounded or curved mirrors add a touch of whimsy and playfulness to the space.

Placement

The placement of your mirror is crucial to achieving the desired effect. Consider placing full-length mirrors next to your bedroom door to open up the space and provide an aesthetic look. If your bedroom is small, mirrors placed near doors or windows can enhance natural light and create the illusion of more space. Avoid placing mirrors directly opposite windows, as this can create strange reflections and harsh lighting.

Hanging the Mirror

To hang a heavy mirror, you will need to use the appropriate hardware and hanging method for its weight and the type of wall you have. Here are the steps to hang a mirror with D-rings, a common hanging method:

• Measure the distance between the D-rings on the back of the mirror, ensuring they are equally distant from the top edge.
• Mark the centre point on the wall where you want to hang the mirror, approximately 60 inches (5 feet) from the floor.
• Measure up from the floor and add half the height of the mirror to determine the top edge's placement. Mark this spot.
• Measure the distance from the top edge of the frame to the highest point of one of the D-rings.
• Transfer this measurement to the wall by measuring down from the centre line and marking with a pencil or painter's tape.
• Use a level to create a pattern and mark the final screw placement.
• If you are not drilling into studs, drill pilot holes and install the appropriate anchors for your wall type and mirror weight.
• Install the screws or hangers into the anchors or wall.
• Ask a friend to help you hang the mirror, ensuring it is level.

Final Touches

Complete the look by adding accessories such as a stylish hat stand, shelving, or a dressing table to transform your open closet into a personal dressing room.

Add a functional dressing table

Adding a functional dressing table to your open closet can elevate your bedroom space and make getting ready a more glamorous experience. Here are some tips to help you create a stylish and practical dressing table:

Choose a Style and Location

Decide on a style that suits your space and complements the rest of your decor. Consider the size and shape of your table, opting for curvy shapes for a feminine vibe or darker rustic styles for a unique contrast. Place your dressing table near a natural light source, ideally in front of a window to maximise light for makeup application. If that's not possible, place it across from a window and use a mirror to reflect light onto your face.

Select a Mirror

The mirror is a key component of your dressing table setup. Choose a mirror that suits the style of your room. For a contemporary space, opt for a mirror with clean lines and a rectangular shape. If your room is more traditional, consider a curved top mirror with decorative detailing. Ensure the mirror is large enough—ideally, half to two-thirds the length of the dressing table. You can also add bulbs around the mirror for a Hollywood-style vanity setup.

Provide Comfortable Seating

Select a chair or stool that is comfortable and complements the style of your dressing table. Upholstered mini stools are a great space-saving option, while a dining chair-style seat offers more comfort. Consider a padded or cushioned seat for added luxury.

Optimise Storage

Keep your dressing table organised and clutter-free by incorporating storage solutions. Dressing tables with built-in drawers are ideal for storing cosmetic and skincare products. You can also use drawer dividers to keep your items neatly sorted. Acrylic storage containers allow you to easily see what's inside, making it convenient to locate your items. If space is limited, consider a dressing table with a mirror that opens to reveal storage shelves behind, or opt for a design with cubbies and drawers to house your makeup and accessories.

Add Personal Touches

Make your dressing table your own by adding homely accents. Display jewellery boxes, ring dishes, perfume bottles on trays, and catch-all bowls for your everyday items. Finish the space with a scented candle and a small bouquet of dried flowers for a special touch.

By following these tips, you can create a functional and stylish dressing table that enhances your open closet and bedroom space.

Frequently asked questions