Take advantage of vertical space (top) to maximize storage and use a combination of hangers and shelves. Closet by Jackie Pezer-Lilic, In2ition Realty.
There's something about the idea of a personal dressing room that makes most people swoon. Maybe it's the thought of having all our clothing and accessories displayed for easy accessibility rather than having them crammed into a closet and dangling from different types of hangers. Half the time we forget what we even have, because we don't dare to venture beyond what we can see. So, we tend to grab the same old thing, or we just go out and buy another white shirt.
In older homes, closets weren't even part of the overall plan. Wardrobes or armoires were commonly used. If a closet was included, it was generally built under the stairs or sloping eaves, making use of unused, awkward spaces. Today, if a new house doesn't have a walk-in closet, we don't give it a second look.
'...if you're determined to keep it organized, you will, because it's easier to do so.'
A woman's private sitting room or salon was referred to as a boudoir. The term was derived from the French word bouder, which means to sulk – a room for sulking in. Historically, the boudoir was part of the private suite of a "lady" that was adjacent to the bed chamber and was used for bathing and dressing. Over the years, it evolved into a private drawing room for other activities, such as embroidery and sewing, and possibly spending time with one's romantic partner.
There's no sulking going on in the boudoir of Erica Gelman, principal designer at House of Design. Ms. Gelman took a spare bedroom in her own home and transformed it into a luxurious dressing room – a room of her own. Everything is open for viewing and easily accessible, just like a stylish boutique. When you think about, it's the merchandising in the store that draws your eye to purchase a certain garment in the first place. When you have the opportunity to determine what goes with what, you're more likely to mix and match and make use of those long-forgotten pieces that you just had to have.
A dressing room (above) resembles a stylish boutique, complete with chaise lounge, chandelier and area rug for decadent relaxing and clothes neatly arranged on hangers. Designed by Erica Gelman of House of Design. Photo: SUPPLIED
Aside from practical considerations, a dressing room might be the only place in the home that's truly yours and not used by other family members. For that reason, says Ms. Gelman, it's important to personalize it. Once you have the storage elements in place, layer the room with your favourite things. Add an accent rug, a beautiful light fixture or a chaise lounge. "Your personal closet is a reflection of yourself," says Ms. Gelman. "Hang pictures, display special jewelry and birthday cards."
Reclining on her chaise while her baby is napping, Ms. Gelman adds, "Some people say that if you add furniture, it's just a place to throw clothes on. But if you're determined to keep it organized, you will, because it's easier to do so."
If you live in a condominium or home with a small footprint, she advises you to make use of the vertical space, especially if you have good ceiling height. "Build up. Don't waste storage space. Put off-season things higher up and rotate."
It's rewarding to find exactly what you're looking for, when you want it. Organize all your favourite things and then you won't feel so bad – or have to sulk in your new boudoir.
| Tips for creating a fabulous closet |
• Develop a floor plan after taking inventory of all you want to store in the room.
• Functionality is paramount. Create a list of what you need. The wants come later.
• Make use of walls with the most real estate for maximum storage.
• Incorporate lots of hanging space and open shelving.
• Use old dressers for storing socks and underwear. When it comes to custom cabinetry, drawers cost the most.
• Include a free-standing mirror that can be positioned where you want it, rather than taking up valuable wall space.
• Ensure that you have good lighting and, if you’re incorporating a make-up vanity, add the appropriate task lighting.
• Maintain order with hanger types. Velvet hangers prevent lightweight fabric from slipping off and wooden hangers are good for folding pants over and supporting heavier clothing.
• Sort by colours with dedicated colour sections and position coordinating handbags above each section. |
This content was produced by The Globe and Mail's advertising department. The Globe's editorial department was not involved in its creation.