There is a method to our madness! This month we are lifting the curtain on some industry secrets that make choosing closet design companies over a DIY install a no-brainer.
Caption: We build closet systems to your specifications, like this one in our rich Tahoe finish.
Avoiding Amateur Closet Mistakes
Over the years, we’ve been privy to a lot of eyebrow-raising “befores.” From the ubiquitous shelf and rod (don’t get us started on that one!) to the closet made up of a hodgepodge of shelving systems of different origin. If there’s one trend we’ve seen, it’s that closets are often an afterthought in the building process.
And maybe it’s that afterthought closet that you are living with now. If you feel frazzled or annoyed every time you walk into your closet, it is time to make a change!
But before you purchase a closet system, it’s important to consult with professional closet design companies so that you avoid spending money on these common closet pitfalls.
Wasted Shelf Space Or Not Enough
Here at Mountain Sky, our standard shelf depth is 14”. Why? Because that is the exact width of a folded adult shirt, with no extra space and no overhang.
This is the level of precision that you’ll get with a closet design company. We often see 12” or 16” shelves from other suppliers, which either creates overhang or leaves extra space that gives the closet a more crowded feel than necessary.
Cringe: The Lone Shelf & Rod
The majority of the closets that we see aren’t making efficient use of their hanging space. A shelf and rod across a standard size primary closet usually results in at least 5 feet—if not more—of missed hanging space. Not to mention the chaos that’s created by the bags and boxes and random shelving units that are placed underneath the hanging clothes.
In most Steamboat closets, we maximize double-hang while creating a small long-hang area for longer dresses and coats that aren’t worn all the time.
We often custom cuts shelves and rods to maximize storage, particularly in spaces that are narrow or have slanted ceilings or other features that make fitting a cookie-cuter system into the space impossible.
Caption: This recent install includes lots of double hang space, 24” shelves that fit two stacks of folded clothing and his & hers dressers.
We also take special consideration of where we place drawers, hanging, and shelves in our designs, to ensure that we are maximizing storage while at the same time not making the closet feel claustrophobic.
The Woes of Painted Wooden Shelves
Sometimes, in addition to the ol’ shelf & rod, builders will install wooden painted built-in shelves. While this may look nice when you first move in, they present several issues.
First, with daily usage we find that the paint chips and needs to be touched up. We also find that no one touches up the paint in their closet!
Second, none of the shelves or features of the closet are adjustable.
In addition to taking into account your specific wardrobe and preferences, our systems are largely adjustable so that you can change them over time. It also adds resale value that the closet can be modified to the preferences of the new owner if you sell your home.
The Hidden Costs of DIY Closets
There is a lot of “fast furniture” in the market these days. Suppliers like Wayfair and Ikea mass create cheap materials that aren’t designed to last more than 5 years.
Our products are manufactured for your order at a mill in Canada. They are covered by our lifetime guarantee. They won’t warp or chip. They are not intended to be something you have to redo in 3 -5 years.
In addition, our closet systems can be added to over time. Some of our clients start with the “bones”–shelves and hanging–and add drawers and doors down the road. This is an affordable way to build out a beautiful and functional closet.
Caption: Dovetail drawers can be added after your install
Ready to overhaul your closet?
We offer free in-home design consultations with our 3-D mock up software that allows you to see exactly how your new closet will look. Sign up here or give us a ring at 970-846-7588