Custom Closet Design

What would you store in your dream closet? When it comes to building that dream closet you always wanted, that's the first question to ask. After all, its design needs to reflect what will actually go into that space. If you plan to put a sample sale's worth of coats and jackets in the closet, for instance, putting in primarily drawers and shoe racks may not be the best use of space. To help you out, we've put together a guide to help you design your dream closet.

Are you looking for a pantry that maximizes the space you have? To design a pantry closet, begin with an inventory of what your household stores in the pantry. Is it attached to the kitchen or part of the kitchen? Is it a reach-in, walk-in or butler's pantry layout? Then divide the space into zones by use. Adjustable shelving, pull-outs, slanted shelves and vertical tray storage put every item within reach, while lighting, moldings and finishes make the pantry read as part of the kitchen. Think about who will use the pantry and if everything is accessible. If kids are going to use it, keep kids' items within reach.

Decorations, gifts and guests all compete for the same closets in the same few weeks. Here’s the order that keeps everything from moving twice.