Master Bedroom Closet Must Haves

If you've been living in a home without enough closet space, then you know how important it is to have adequate, organized spaces to keep your things.  Master bedroom closets usually have to accomodate the clothes of two people and have become increasingly larger as master bedroom suites have increased in size.  But a closet the size of the Taj Mahal won't do you any good if it doesn't contain the elements that are important to you and make your life easier.  Read on for some practical ideas that should enhance any master closet, and some not so practical but very fun ideas as well.

Know Your Habits
Closets work best when they work for you.  Shorter people need useable shelving and spaces where they can reach them.  Do you hang all your shirts or do you like them stacked?  Do you have a large collection of ballcaps or sweatshirts?  Storage for each type can be very different.  If you bunch your socks you'll need more space than if you roll them. Think about what you wear and how you like to get dressed, and design the space to serve you: most-used items up around eye level, less-used below, and least-used high above. Most closets have too much hanging storage and far too little shelf or drawer storage.

Visibility
Some people like to see everything at a glance, others prefer a more organized look.  Either way, your options are endless.  Here a a few examples of more open and more closed designs.

Lighting
Most closets lack adequate lighting.  If you're looking to add some light to your closet keep a few things in mind.  Fluorescent lighting of the past reminds us of unflattering colors.  But flourescent lighting has come a long way and does not produce the heat that incandescent lights do, which could be a fire hazard in a small confined space.  Lighting should be placed between you and your clothes.  Lights that are behind you will create shadows and make it harder for you to see your choices.  Natural lights or skylights may seem like a great solution but sunlight has a fading effect on many clothes and accessories.  Consider carefully where sunlight will travel in your closet before installing any windows or skylights.

Smart Use of Space
Take advantage of all available space, up to the ceiling and down to the floor. Bins on high shelves, roll-out boxes that sit on the floor (available from many catalogues), even a third closet pole if your ceiling is over 9 feet high, are ideal for storing items you don't use all the time. Less accessible places work well for off-season storage; if you have enough room that you don't need to rotate clothes, use the space to get oddball shoes, hats, bags, or sentimental items out of damp basements and freezing/baking attics.

Little Luxuries
Who says a closet has to be completely utilitarian?  Chandelier in the closet...why not?  Washers and dryers are a handy luxury in your closet.  Comfortable seating, beautiful carpets, high-end cabinetry, vanities, refrigerators, full length mirrors, and televisions can all make a functional space a beautiful one as well.  Make the space work for you and enjoy EVERY room in your house!