Miami Herald (Sunday)

How to make better use of your closet

- BY CATHY HOBBS

Closets come in all shapes and sizes, but regardless of the size you are going to want to maximize space and organizati­on. Closets should be considered in the planning of a home, similar to a room. The best place to start is with a floor plan and a clear understand­ing of how you want the closet to be used. Here are some tips on how to get the most out of your closets.

1. Consider using a profession­al closet company. These companies have experts in maximizing every inch of usable space. Be sure to arrive with measuremen­ts in hand.

2. Include flexible built-ins. While built-ins help create a seamless look, if you use a system that can be moved from home to home or adjusted based on your needs such as a modular configurat­ion, you will be able to use your closet investment long term.

3. Try white. White is be a neutral selection that won’t clash with other finishes in the home.

4. Look for solid constructi­on. Closets in some instances undergo wear and tear, so you will want to make sure your selections will last.

5. Create spaces for both long- and short-hanging clothing. This will be especially important if your closet is shared with a partner.

6. Use thin, space-saving hangers. Wooden hangers are often bulky.

7. Consider baskets and bins. These are great for organizing closets and making everything look neat and seamless.

8. Color coordinate your closet. Often it is helpful to have a system in which dark clothing is separate from lighter fabrics.

9. Have a shoe organizati­on plan. So often shoes organizati­on is an afterthoug­ht that impacts the utilizatio­n and appearance of a closet.

10. Look for opportunit­ies for hidden storage. Stash items into drawers and cabinets.

 ?? Photos by Design Recipes/TNS ?? Boxes and baskets help keep this large closet organized.
Photos by Design Recipes/TNS Boxes and baskets help keep this large closet organized.
 ??  ?? Options for both short- and long-hanging clothing provide versatilit­y in this closet.
Options for both short- and long-hanging clothing provide versatilit­y in this closet.

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