
Custom Closet Design Helps Your DC Walk-in Look Like a Chevy Chase Showroom
3 minute read, by Closet America, on Aug 12, 2016
Turn your DC closet into an elegant space that rivals any shop display with the help of creative custom design. Consider these four organizational ideas.
There’s nothing like a Saturday afternoon in downtown DC—but since I live here, I usually skip the cherry trees and the Washington Monument and head straight for Wisconsin Avenue. Luxury shopping is a pastime I’ll never turn down. I was browsing through the stores at Chevy Chase last Saturday afternoon, and when I got home, I couldn’t stop thinking about how immaculate the showrooms were.
Determined to recreate that feeling of luxury for my clients, I took a look at my own closet and made some notes. If you’re curious about how your own walk-in can be as luxurious as the Chevy Chase showrooms, here are my suggestions:
#1 Consistency Is Key
Have you ever walked into a showroom and seen different hangers on the same rail? Probably not. A consistent look adds polish. If you’re installing a custom closet system, we can guide you through finish and hardware options so that your drawer pulls complement your trim, and your entire closet feels consistent with the rest of your home. If you want a sleek look, you might decide to match bronzed copper handles with a warm Sunset finish—or you could go lighter with polished chrome pulls against a white backdrop. The important part is making sure everything pulls together.
If you’ve already gone custom, maintaining your closet’s beauty is key, so I’d suggest scrutinizing your hangers. Whether you choose wood, velvet, or plastic, commit to one type and color. My hanger of choice is a velvet slim line hanger in black. (Notice that I “forgot” to mention wire hangers. They can be terrible for the shoulders of your clothes and should be switched out as soon as you get outfits back from the cleaners.)
#2 Mirrors Are Essential
Wherever you turn in a showroom, you’ll find yourself surrounded by mirrors. The same should be true of your closet—mirrors provide you with visual reassurance that you look as fabulous as you feel. If you’re worried about your mirror hogging valuable closet space, our custom closet designers can add one that pulls out when you need it but goes into hiding when you don’t.
#3 Less Is More
Unless you’re a size 0, you’ll find your size isn’t always on the showroom rail and you have to ask for it to be pulled from the back. It’s annoying, but there’s a reason for it. Placing fewer items allows stores to create a chic, minimalist look. If your closet is currently overstuffed, we can help you achieve the same effect by installing drawers and pull-out chrome baskets for bulky items or things you don’t wear often or even renovating your hall closet to hold some of these items. I found that once all my sweaters and coats were out of sight, it was easier to achieve that showroom-inspired, minimalist vibe.
#4 Good Lighting Is Vital
When I’m shopping, I don’t usually stop and stare up at the ceiling. But if the urge ever strikes you, you’ll notice most showroom lights aren’t average. They’re gorgeous. They’re sexy. Your lighting should be too. DC closets typically come with a standard globe light—we’ll help you upgrade.Obviously, nothing can compare to the experience of stopping by Tiffany’s or Jimmy Choo. However, with the right makeover, your walk-in closet will give any Chevy Chase showroom a run for its money. Get in touch with us for a free design consultation, and we’ll have you getting dressed in luxury.