How to Design a Built in Linen Closet
Closet space seems to be the one feature of a home that you can never have enough of, so it's very important to optimize the space you have. For this, organization is key. The two primary considerations when designing a built-in linen closet are available space and storage needs. Approaching the project in a thoughtful, organized way will result in a convenient and well-ordered linen closet that will make the most of the space you have. Does this Spark an idea?
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Instructions
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1
Measure the height, depth and width of the space where you will build your linen closet. If this is in a wall, make sure you have adequate depth available. For linen closets, a good rule of thumb is 18 inches.
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2
Make a checklist of everything you'll store in the closet, such as towels, blankets, comforters, sheet sets, table linens and supplies. Group items on the list by room, size and owner---and be specific as to size and quantity, such as 10 bath towels and three sets of queen-size sheets.
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3
Draw the outline of the closet on the graph paper to scale.
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Measure the dimensions of each item on your checklist as it will be stored. For instance, if one folded bath towel is 14 inches wide, 14 inches deep and 4 inches tall, and you have 10 bath towels that are 4 inches thick and want to put them in two stacks, measure your planned space accordingly.
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Calculate the number and size of shelves that can be accommodated in the space using the dimensions of the items. Remember to allow for the thickness of the shelves themselves when calculating height. Position taller shelves below. Generally, two but no more than three different heights of shelves are best.
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Draw in the basic shapes of the closet contents on the plan so that you can judge whether or not the arrangement is functional and looks organized and balanced.
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Tips & Warnings
This is a good time to edit your inventory. Give away excess bedding, the old towels that no longer match your bathroom and that crocheted throw that you won't allow to be seen in your living room.
Consider including rectangular baskets for small items such as one for linen napkins, one for washcloths and one (or more) for supplies.
If you have a choice of different locations for your closet and want to determine how much space you need, do the measurement calculations of the items on your checklist first.
If you have the space and choose to have a deep closet, store multiples of an item behind the same item so you can pick from the front without having to move adjacent items out of the way to reach what's in back.
A clean, contemporary look is to have a linen closet without a door. Neat, well-ordered linens can be very attractive and will simplify construction.
