If you’re unfamiliar with the home organization industry, organizing your closet might seem as simple as a stroll down one aisle in Target. But, there’s a big difference between flimsy, store-bought organizers and sturdy, custom-designed closet systems. For long-term storage solutions that suit your space and needs, professional home organization is a must. With decades of experience and wisdom, our designers at Strickland’s Home are happy to share seven insider tips we use to create our custom closets:

1. 3D design programs are indispensable.

While designers were once confined to pen and paper for space planning, today, 3D closet design tools allow for speedy, precise, and realistic visuals of your future closet. Shelving, drawers, hanging rods, and display cases can be added and moved around to make sure your inventory is exactly where you want it. Think: double hanging rods for work wear, open storage for your shoe collection, and even built-in, extendable solutions for ties, belts, and accessories.

2. Cutting corners is a waste of space. 

Custom-made closet systems should be built to fit your closet from wall to wall — no cutting corners allowed. At Strickland’s Home, our designers begin by taking precise measurements of your entire closet space, to make sure they make the most of every millimeter available. With a custom-designed closet, you can be sure you’re maximizing space, no matter the shape or size.

3. Great shelving goes deep.

Assemble-your-own cubbies look fine online, but start to stack your clothes inside, and you may discover they’re hanging or sliding over the edge. This is one of the most common ways that organization system companies save themselves money at a cost to customers. Shallow shelving is attractive in a catalog but doesn’t deliver in real life. For your custom closet system, make sure to request deep shelving to ensure there’s enough space for bulky, stackable items like your sweaters, sweatshirts, and jeans.

4. Not all closet systems have to feature simple, Scandinavian design.

So, we get it — companies like Ikea make it seem like all storage systems are sleek, modern, and crisp white. But great designers know the best storage systems match your space and personal style, which leads to lots of customization. Our organization products are available in numerous shades, from classic white, black, and gray to wood grains like cherry and walnut. You can customize your system to match the rest of your master bedroom, office, or bathroom with features like crown moulding, hardware, and glass doors.

5. Some of the most unexpected spaces are ripe for reorganization.

Images of custom closets in magazines would have you believe professional organization is just for your spacious master bedroom walk-in. In reality, our designers get excited about creative storage solutions in all spaces. Narrow hallway closets, slim entryways, and multipurpose laundry rooms can be streamlined to make your life much easier. We take advantage of tall closets with upper-level shelving for holiday storage, mid-level shelving for everyday supplies like linens and towels, and categorized organizers below for all of your cleaning supplies. Take a look at Instagram, and you’ll realize some of the most popular closet redesigns are for reach-ins and kitchen pantries with stylish labels, see-through containers, wine storage, and even built-in workspaces and countertops.

6. Don’t be afraid of bins and baskets.

While adult organization often requires expertly-folded clothing in drawers and perfectly-hung dresses, blouses, and slacks, it doesn’t always have to be so time-consuming. If your closet is filled with clothes and clutter, bins and baskets are ideal for stress-free closet organization.

7. Custom closets aren’t 100 percent set in stone.

While professional organizers don’t just design your closet to include each item in your inventory, we also understand that your needs change over time. That’s why we provide adjustable shelving, hanging rods, and versatile storage solutions that grow and move with you.

Strickland’s Home Trade Secrets

While anyone can order an organization system online, for solutions that stand the test of time, decades of design wisdom make all the difference. To learn more about how our designers work their magic, visit our showroom or request an appointment.