Are you looking for a way to make your home more functional and luxurious?
A walk-in closet is a great option.
If designed properly, a walk-in closet can become the belle of your bedroom.
You want a wardrobe to die for? Or perhaps you like keeping your clothes neatly stored? A walk-in closet is a covetable addition to any home.
I made a list of everything you should know before planning your closet dimensions, including how to find a good size for a walk-in closet. Keep reading to learn more about what the ideal walk-in closet size is, plus storage tips and tricks.
Walk-in Closet Layouts
There are three primary varieties of walk-in closets. A good size for a walk-in closet generally starts at 6.5 feet by 6.5 feet, however we all know how quirky Seattle homes can be. Here’s a quick breakdown of different closet layouts we’ve encountered, plus some suggestions.
The Square and Small Closet
Soucre: Unsplash
The square and small walk-in closet is a great choice for a home with space constraints.
These walk-in closet dimensions are usually 5 feet by 5 feet. With these dimensions, you can barely call it a "walk-in closet," but I'm including this example because it's the amount of space many Seattle homes have.
Even though a 5x5 closet is small, you can maximize the storage capacity with thoughtful additions.
Think about:
- Installing hanging storage on two walls.
- Adding shelves on all the walls and installing rods for maximum space-saving
The Narrow and Long Closet
This is a more standard-size closet. These walk-in closet dimensions are around 6.5 feet x 9 feet.
If this closet design is right for you, you can:
- Install double hanging rods.
- Use open shelving for optimal space utilization.
This is a great his and hers closet, as it gives you two distinct sections.
The Large Closet
Soucre: Pixabay
A large walk-in closet is a dream.
For more spacious needs, 12 feet x 14 feet is considered an optimal size.
This closet is perfect for big families, as it offers massive storage space and lots of walking room.
Determining a Good Size for Your Walk-In Closet
Whether you’re remodeling within an existing home structure or planning a new build, determining a good size for your walk-in closet is essential. For homes with existing structures, we recommend planning the closet so that it can accommodate hanging rods on opposite walls. This will provide ample storage without compromising movement.
For new builds, we recommend aiming for a larger space, such as 12 feet by 14 feet, which offers many more storage options. The closet size allows for additional features like an island, seating and even a vanity area.
Optimal Walk-In Closet Dimensions & Storage Space
Now that we’ve covered what a good size for your walk-in closet is, let’s discuss what you can do with it! The storage capacity and functionality of your walk-in closets will depend on the amount of space you have available, but there are still many creativity storage solutions.
Here is what to know before you start designing your bedroom closet.
Hanging Space
Soucre: Unsplash
The recommended width for storing clothes on hangers is 24 inches. This is the same depth as kitchen base cabinets.
You can go slightly smaller — 20 inches. But if possible, I recommend sticking with the standard size, for more convenient use.
There are two types of walk-in closet hanging space dimensions:
- Half hanging — For shirts, tops, folded trousers, skirts. The average height is 3 feet 6 inches.
- Full hanging — For dresses, long coats, or even bed linen. The average height is 5 feet 6 inches.
Before you start remodeling, measure your reach. You can customize the walk-in closet dimensions to your reach and height.
Also, consider the clearance between the hanging rod and the surface above. There should be at least 2 inches for a hanger to pass over the top of the rod.
Shelves and Drawers
Soucre: Unsplash
If you want shelving to sit above or below hanging rods, they should have the same measurements as the hanging rod space: 2 feet.
If you prefer shelves that inhabit their own space, you have more storage options around their depth. The standard walk-in closet shelf depth is 12 inches, which happens to match the standard depth of kitchen cabinets.
If you plan to keep shoes on a one-foot shelf, you may need to install a special shoe rack. If your shoes are too big to fit flat on the shelf, use a sloped rack.
Think about what you will keep on the shelves. Three T-shirts take up much less space than three fluffy sweaters. The secret to getting the right shelf height is choosing adjustable shelves.
One thing to keep in mind when doing a closet layout makeover is to keep the drawers and shelves at eye level, so you can see what’s inside.
Make Your Small Walk-in Closet Pop
Even if your walk-in closet is small, that doesn't mean it can’t resemble those in design magazines.
Here are some design and storage tips for small closets:
- Use various types of storage to optimize closet space — Don’t stick only to hanging rods, but also use open cubbies, plastic bins, baskets, and cabinet storage units to store clothing and accessories.
- Design a small closet with style — Organize the closet so that it’s a reflection of your personal style. Lidded boxes in bright colors and patterns will add pops of color.
- Use open storage for easy access — Give every item a proper, reachable place. Shelves are the best solution for keeping folded items within view. It’s easy to put away items and put together an outfit.
- Divide closet into zones — Use furniture as a partition and an extra utility in a small walk-in closet. A bookcase can act as a room divider, and at the same time as a shoe rack.
- Design the closet around existing features — Don’t let slanted ceilings stand in the way of a closet makeover. A hanging rod is a great solution for that high to reach wall space.
Not sure if you should remodel a home before moving in? Here’s the answer.
