Dreaming About a Gorgeous Closet

By Kristin Mears

Ever watched a fixer-upper show and thought to yourself, “Why can’t my closet look like that?” Well … why can’t it? Our San Antonio design experts can help you take that first scary leap into the overwhelming task of remodeling. Revamp your drab closet into the storage space of your dreams with expert recommendations and a trend roundup in designing that one-of-a-kind space that shrieks style, function and a splash of glam.
These experts are Gene Philipps, owner of Cabinetry Designs; Lynley Serratt, director of sales and marketing for Palmer Todd; and Errica Williams, marketing and retail manager of California Closets of the Texas Hill Country.

From do-it-yourself to professional installation, closets can range from simple to high-end systems. Whether it’s adding custom storage solutions, convenient dressing areas, glamorous design details or a simple change of color, our select design experts share their expertise on how to achieve the ultimate organized dressing space.

Magical Effects of Lighting

“The right lights can illuminate your clothing within a walk-in closet or accent a stunning display, adding both function and beauty to a space,” explains Errica Williams of California Closets of the Texas Hill Country. “The addition of lighting to a space changes everything.” There’s no such thing as “too much” light when speaking about closets. True color and texture come to life in natural light, so when taking on the task of remodeling your closet space, remember its first purpose — for your clothes. “Good lighting is critical for selecting your clothing and seeing the task at hand,” she explains. “It is also a style and architectural element, adding a lovely dimension to any closet.”

“Not only is lighting being used to accentuate or decorate, it’s also being used out of necessity,” explains Lynley Serratt of Palmer Todd. “Clients are turning closets into further extensions of their living spaces by adding seating for reading and television viewing, so lighting is needed for more than just grabbing clothes.”

GLITZ & GLAMOUR
“Adding a little glamour to your closet system through the finishes you select can transform your space from ordinary to extraordinary,” explains Williams. Everything from high-gloss to highly textured materials are being incorporated. Williams’ clients are more apt to select crystal handles and knobs as well as brass, both matte and polished, for hardware, poles and accessories. These small details not only add a bit of glitz and shine to the allure of the space, but they boost sophisticated interest. With elegant lighting, open space and inviting accessories, closets can be transformed to mirror a boutique with lavish finishes and high-end materials.

STYLISH & COLORFUL
“Overall, our clients are wanting to personalize their spaces to enhance the mood and feel of their home as well as to have a little fun,” explains Williams.“Pops of color provide an easy way to inject personal style into a space with a burst of eye candy.” Closets have become more than just a place to store items; they have become a place to relax — a retreat. Painting the walls or selecting a colored wood finish can transform an ordinary closet into something exceptional. Instead of creating a monochromatic scheme, homeowners are being playful with color. Drawer faces and doors now come in different colors and finishes, and days of accent walls are diminishing as countertops are being used for the same effect. “Your design choices are virtually limitless,” explains Philipps of Cabinetry Designs. “With an impressive range of style, colors, woods, laminates, molding and hardware, a seamless, luxurious closet can be achieved — it’s just up to the customization and direction of the client.”

ORGANIZATION
“Intentional or detailed organization is a big trend we are seeing from our clients,” says Serratt. “Organization to the point that we measure the clothes, how they fold their pants and how their clothes are hung. Custom inserts for types of jewelry, such as small earrings or necklaces, are being created; it’s about tailoring to the inventory of the client.” Whether it’s open shelving, stylish bins or compartments galore, organization is a must-have for a camera-ready closet. “Custom wardrobe solutions are the biggest trend,” says Philipps. “Our clients aren’t choosing ‘cookie cutter’ boxes and shelves for their custom-crafted closets. They are looking for designs tailored to their individual wardrobe and lifestyles.” Philipps’ clients want custom space-saving drawers and hideaway shelving, all with high-quality materials and impeccable designs catering to the individual.

ALL THE BELLS & WHISTLES
Accessories are what make a closet “custom.” Integrating technology and specialty accessories like charging stations and security safes for precious items and keepsakes is becoming a frequent request for many closet renovations. “Incorporating things into their closets like shoe polishers, steam cleaners and even washers and dryers is another big trend we are seeing,” says Serratt. “Another common accessory is a ‘packing’ island. This not only adds character to the space, but it meets the client’s travel needs as well as functionality for storage and use.” Providing a place to pack a suitcase or extra drawers for small items, islands are popular for homeowners with large walk-in closets. “Consultations between designer and client are essential to create a tailored space that offers not only storage solutions, but an extension of their home,” says Philipps.

HIS & HERS
Split or his-and-hers finishes are becoming a prominent design choice when considering how to revamp an outdated and cluttered closet. Not only does the split finish declutter a shared closet, but it gives personality to both spaces. “The great thing about having split finishes is seeing the contrast in color, design and feminine versus masculine,” explains Serratt. Handbags, sunglasses and reading glasses are showcased more like exhibitions with glass-front cabinets, drawers and bins to highlight certain pieces. Unusual ways to showcase shoes are prominent in renovations for shoe lovers, and men can display watches in compartmentalized storage or custom built-ins that work for each individual’s tastes and needs.