Adding a Closet to a Small Bedroom Maximize Space and Style

Planning and Design: Adding A Closet To A Small Bedroom

Adding a closet to a small bedroom can be a transformative project, offering numerous benefits beyond just extra storage space. A well-designed closet can significantly enhance the functionality and aesthetics of your bedroom, creating a more organized and visually appealing space.

Types of Closets

The type of closet you choose will depend on your budget, the size of your bedroom, and your personal preferences.

• Built-in Closets: These are custom-designed closets that are built directly into the wall, maximizing space and providing a seamless look. They are often more expensive than other options but offer unparalleled customization and durability.
• Freestanding Closets: These are portable closets that can be easily moved and rearranged. They are a good option for renters or those who want a flexible storage solution. Freestanding closets come in various sizes and styles, from simple wire shelving units to more elaborate designs with drawers and doors.
• Closet Organizers: These are modular systems that can be installed in existing closets to enhance organization and storage capacity. They typically include shelves, drawers, and hanging rods, and can be customized to fit your specific needs. Closet organizers are a cost-effective way to improve the functionality of your existing closet.

Designing a Custom Closet Layout

Designing a custom closet layout requires careful planning to maximize space and functionality. Consider the following factors:

• Clothing Types: Analyze your wardrobe and determine the types of clothing you need to store. For example, if you have a lot of long dresses or coats, you’ll need a longer hanging rod. If you have a lot of folded clothes, you’ll need more shelves or drawers.
• Personal Preferences: Consider your personal preferences when designing your closet. Do you prefer to have everything visible or do you prefer to keep things hidden away? Do you want to have a specific area for accessories or shoes?
• Available Space: Measure the available space in your bedroom carefully to ensure that the closet you choose will fit comfortably. Consider the width, depth, and height of the space.

Maximizing Space Within a Small Bedroom Closet

Even with limited space, you can maximize the storage capacity of your closet by using clever design techniques.

• Utilize Vertical Space: Make use of the vertical space by installing shelves and hanging rods at different heights. Consider using a double hanging rod to maximize hanging space.
• Incorporate Shelves and Drawers: Shelves are great for storing folded clothes, shoes, and accessories. Drawers provide a more organized way to store items that you don’t want to be visible.
• Utilize Hanging Organizers: Hanging organizers are a great way to maximize space in a small closet. They can be used to store shoes, handbags, and other accessories.

Construction and Installation

This section provides a step-by-step guide on building a basic closet frame, installing it in your bedroom, and adding doors and lighting. It also discusses various installation methods and door types to help you create a functional and stylish closet space.

Building a Closet Frame

Building a basic closet frame involves creating a sturdy structure that will support shelves, rods, and other closet components. This typically involves using wood studs, plywood, and other materials.

1. Determine the Closet Dimensions: Measure the space where you want to build the closet and plan the dimensions of the frame. Consider the desired width, depth, and height of the closet, leaving enough space for doors to open and close comfortably.
2. Gather Materials: You’ll need wood studs, plywood, screws, nails, wood glue, and a level. The size and type of materials will depend on the closet’s dimensions and desired strength. For example, you may use 2×4 studs for the frame and 1/2-inch plywood for the shelves and back panel.
3. Cut and Assemble the Frame: Cut the wood studs to the desired lengths using a saw. Use a level to ensure the frame is square and plumb. Secure the frame pieces together using screws and wood glue.
4. Add Shelves and Back Panel: Cut plywood sheets to the desired sizes for the shelves and back panel. Attach the shelves to the frame using screws and wood glue. Secure the back panel to the frame using screws.
5. Install Braces and Supports: Add braces and supports to the frame to increase its stability and strength. This is especially important for larger closets or closets that will be heavily loaded.

Installing a Closet

Installing a closet involves attaching it to existing walls, creating a freestanding structure, or using a pre-made closet kit. Each method offers different advantages and considerations.

• Attaching to Existing Walls: This method is suitable for closets built into existing walls or against a wall. It involves attaching the closet frame to the wall studs using screws or nails. Ensure the frame is level and plumb before securing it to the wall.
• Creating a Freestanding Structure: This method is ideal for creating a closet in the middle of a room or where there are no existing walls. It involves building a standalone frame and securing it to the floor using anchors or bolts. You can add a back panel to the freestanding frame for privacy and stability.
• Using a Closet Kit: Closet kits are pre-fabricated structures that include all the necessary components for a basic closet. They often come with shelves, rods, doors, and hardware. Installing a closet kit typically involves assembling the components according to the manufacturer’s instructions and attaching them to the wall or floor.

Installing Closet Doors

Closet doors can be sliding, hinged, or bifold, each offering different functionality and aesthetics.

• Sliding Doors: These doors move horizontally along a track and are ideal for saving space in small bedrooms. They are typically made of wood, glass, or a combination of both. Installation involves mounting the track to the wall or ceiling and attaching the doors to the track. You’ll need to ensure the track is level and properly aligned for smooth operation.
• Hinged Doors: These doors are attached to the frame using hinges and open and close like traditional doors. They are available in various materials and styles. Installation involves attaching the hinges to the frame and door, then hanging the door on the hinges. You’ll need to ensure the hinges are properly aligned for a smooth swing.
• Bifold Doors: These doors fold in half and are ideal for narrow spaces. They are typically made of wood or a combination of wood and glass. Installation involves attaching the doors to the frame using hinges and installing a track or guide for the folding mechanism. You’ll need to ensure the track is level and properly aligned for smooth operation.

Adding Lighting to a Closet

Proper lighting is essential for a functional and aesthetically pleasing closet.

• Types of Lighting Fixtures: Closet lighting options include recessed lights, track lighting, under-shelf lights, and LED strips. Recessed lights offer a clean and integrated look, while track lighting provides flexibility and directionality. Under-shelf lights illuminate shelves effectively, while LED strips offer a sleek and energy-efficient solution.
• Placement Considerations: The placement of closet lights is crucial for maximizing visibility and minimizing shadows. Consider installing lights at the top of the closet for general illumination, under shelves for highlighting items, and near the entrance for easy access. You can also use motion sensors to activate lights automatically when you open the closet.

Finishing and Organization

Now that your closet is built, it’s time to make it functional and visually appealing. The finishing touches and organization are crucial for creating a space that’s both practical and enjoyable to use.

Customizing the Closet Interior

A well-designed closet interior is essential for maximizing space and keeping your belongings organized. The options are plentiful, from simple shelves to complex systems with drawers, hanging rods, and specialized accessories.

• Shelves: Shelves are the foundation of a closet system. They provide a platform for folding and storing clothes, shoes, and other items. Consider different shelf heights to accommodate various items, and choose materials like wood or metal for durability and aesthetics.
• Drawers: Drawers offer a convenient way to store items that you want to keep hidden or easily accessible. They are ideal for undergarments, socks, and accessories. Opt for drawers with smooth-gliding slides for easy access.
• Hanging Rods: Hanging rods are essential for storing clothes that need to be hung. Consider double rods to maximize vertical space, and use different heights to accommodate various lengths of garments.
• Accessories: A wide array of accessories can enhance your closet’s functionality. Tie racks, belt hangers, jewelry organizers, and shoe shelves are just a few examples. Choose accessories that suit your specific needs and preferences.

Organizing Your Closet

The key to a well-organized closet is to designate specific areas for different types of items. This approach ensures that everything has its place and is easy to find.

• Clothing: Divide your clothing by category, such as shirts, pants, dresses, and jackets. You can further categorize by season or occasion.
• Accessories: Store accessories like belts, scarves, hats, and jewelry in designated areas within your closet. Use drawers, organizers, or hanging accessories to keep them tidy and accessible.
• Shoes: Utilize shoe shelves, shoe boxes, or shoe bags to store your footwear. Arrange them by type or occasion for easy retrieval.
• Other Items: Dedicate space for other items you might store in your closet, such as luggage, handbags, or seasonal decorations.

Maximizing Closet Space

Even a small closet can be organized effectively with the right storage solutions.

• Vertical Space: Utilize vertical space by adding shelves, double rods, and hanging organizers.
• Wall Space: Maximize wall space by installing shelves, hooks, and mirrors to create a visually appealing and functional space.
• Door Space: Use the back of the closet door for storage with over-the-door organizers, hooks, or shoe racks.
• Corners: Don’t neglect corners! Utilize corner shelves or organizers to store items that might otherwise be difficult to access.

Maintaining a Clean and Organized Closet, Adding a closet to a small bedroom

A clean and organized closet is essential for a peaceful and efficient morning routine.

• Declutter Regularly: Regularly declutter your closet by getting rid of items you no longer wear or need. Donate, sell, or discard items to create space for essentials.
• Fold and Hang Clothes Properly: Fold clothes neatly and hang them on appropriate hangers to prevent wrinkles and maintain a tidy appearance.
• Clean Regularly: Dust shelves and hanging rods periodically to keep your closet clean and free of dust and debris.
• Keep It Consistent: Develop a routine for maintaining your closet’s organization. Put items back in their designated spots after use to avoid clutter.

Adding a closet to a small bedroom can be a challenge, but it’s not impossible. A clever design trick is to utilize built-in shelves and drawers, maximizing vertical space. If you’re looking for inspiration, check out these purple and blue girls bedroom ideas, which showcase creative storage solutions.

With a little ingenuity, you can create a functional and stylish closet even in a compact space.

Adding a closet to a small bedroom can be a challenge, but with smart design choices, you can maximize space and create a functional haven. A calming color scheme, like the blue gray orange bedroom we’ve featured, can help visually expand the space.

By choosing a closet design that incorporates clever storage solutions, you can ensure your small bedroom remains stylish and organized, even with the addition of a closet.