The Dated Closet Feature It's Time To Ditch For A Much More Functional Alternative

Just like design trends shift over time, so do the needs of renters and homeowners. For example, it wasn't unusual to find homes in the 1980s that included elaborate wall nooks fit for entertainment centers, intercom systems, and built-in China cabinets. Today, however, those features are nearly obsolete. When it comes to common features that are outdating your closet, the basic single rod and shelf is proving itself to be a thing of the past. In its place are features and fixtures that are evolving with the average consumer's growing garment and accessory needs. Closet storage that includes both open and enclosed fixtures and custom built-in storage solutions are the modern replacements, and they can make use of closets with even the most limited space.

Closets with single rods and traditional overhead shelves have served their purpose, but they leave little space for growing wardrobes, out-of-season garments, shoes, and other accessories. Maximizing the vertical space in your closet isn't just for aesthetic reasons. Adding additional fixtures, pull-out trays, extra storage drawers, and built-in laundry baskets to your closet are functional design tricks that make laundry day that much easier.

Gone are the days of classic rod and overhead shelves that neglect vertical space, leaving large areas unused. Function and design go hand in hand, and even in a space like a closet that's typically concealed from the rest of the home, it's important to choose a storage system that can complement your closet and aesthetic needs. The good news is that the options for complementary systems seem endless. From units with built-in dressers to additional shelving to cleverly adding laundry basket inserts, there are plenty of storage hacks that help maximize the space in your closet. Many closet systems can be customized to your needs, whether your design taste leans more towards open or enclosed storage.

Whether to choose a system that's open or enclosed, or curating storage solutions, depends on what your needs are. Rods aren't necessarily a no-go, but assessing how much hanging storage you need versus drawers and shelves is essential. An open closet system, like the ELVARLI system from IKEA, can work for lived-in or traditional decor styles, as they offer a symmetrical and collected aesthetic that's associated with classic designs. This type can be more accessible to find what you need, and it can work for those who don't want to waste time finding things to pull out of their closet. Plus, open modular closet systems can be a better option for renters who want customized storage without losing their deposit.

For contemporary styles, you may opt for enclosed systems. In that case, you might consider systems such as the PAX wardrobe from IKEA. These systems typically look cleaner, which can work for those who favor a more sleek design, while still offering a ton of shelving, drawers, and hanging space.