Creating Closets When None Exist
We are looking at a place that we really like, but it has almost NO closets. How easy it is to build them out? How expensive? Can anyone recommend a good person do this this or is it an architect? We don’t want to be stuck with wardrobes/freestanding Ikea type units for the rest of…
We are looking at a place that we really like, but it has almost NO closets. How easy it is to build them out? How expensive? Can anyone recommend a good person do this this or is it an architect? We don’t want to be stuck with wardrobes/freestanding Ikea type units for the rest of our lives (plus we have kids).
I agree with both Dave and Wyckoff. Easy to build, and easy to put in a place where they look terrible. Essentially the construction method is you build a frame out of wood or metal, then screw sheetrock to the frame, then cover the seams in the sheetrock with tape and joint compound, then paint.
Depending on the specifics of the room, I might hire to someone to build a cupboard, install a salvage one, use an old armoire, or a storage system from Ikea. Ikea has some really big ones that go almost to the ceiling and look really good.
Whatever you do, don’t build something in the way of a pathway where people walk. FYI, you need about three feet of clearance in a pathway to feel comfortable — as between two kitchen counters, for example. I have seen idiot contractors who want to extend existing, perfectly good closets into a hallway where people walk. Completely foolish.
You get much more efficient use of space with built-ins and armoires. There’s nothing worse in an old house than a beautiful room destroyed by the addition of big sheetrocked box in one corner. Before you build anything you should live there for a while and see how you actually use the space, and contemplate how building a closet may fk up the aesthetics of what’s there.
Hi I have built a number of closets, and storage areas for people over the years. It’s just a matter of figuring out where they will best fit in your home, and what your storage needs are. I also highly recommend the container store and the Elfa closet systems they sell for the interior of any closets I have built. They are relatively inexpensive.
If you would like more information feel free to contact me at: deefinite@gmail.com
Its not something you need to file with the DOB, normally.
And even then you should not need an architect. If you are in a co-op or condo you may want to run it up the chain especially if you are installing lights and light switches or affecting sprinkler coverage. But be careful not to box yourself in a corner where they insist on permits etc. Speak to someone first. Keep clear of Electrical Panel Boxes – EL code requires a working area unimpaired about the panel box.
But they are only closets after all. Building traditional closets has a couple of major disadvantages to the type of closets described below- factory made closets that require assembly .They are better and much less expensive than traditional build-outs, which you still gota shelve anyway, and thats because…
THE BUYING POINTS
1 No expense of building walls. Walls included. This is aiways the biggest expense, at least 50-70% cost of generic closet
2 Very , very space conscious. And save the space, intrusion and mess required for building sheetrock walls.
3 They come in a very clothing-friendly finish, smooth as the silk you might be hanging in there -no snags, burrs, holes or crookedness of some wall-built closets
4 Finish can be adapted. Can be clad in Cedar, if you want to spend some of the money you are saving on building walls, or painted or any other finish. Or keep it as is- white- looks just great.
5 Choose your door style.
6. Mirrors are an option.
7. Choose your interior layout or customize your own.
8 Actual sizes and footprints unlimited
9 Can be configured -short on tall etc.
10 Moldings will be added if desired to match existing room.
11 Can be installed as permanent built-in or ‘look just like built-ins’ but dont have to conform to DOB regulations.
10 Did I mention inexpensive!
Reply to CaseClosets@gmail.com
—— John.
I built my own in the second bedroom. It’s very easy. Delineate an area that works best (don’t cover up any outlets you want to use or the heat ducts). Lay it out on the floor and use wood or metal studs and sheetrock. Be sure to put in cross (horizontal) studs where you want to place the bars for hangers. If your ceilings are high, don’t build it all the way up so that light comes in through the (open) top. Imstall bifold or slifding doors and then use a wood casing for the opening. There should be a minimal amount of drywall taping and mudding.
Use a level for plumbing up the walls and openings. It’s a pretty easy DIY project.
I have my kids sleep in the closet, except we call it their bedroom.
Architect for closets…! Wow, you must have money to burn.
It’s practically a DIY job (board approval excepted, of course).
My now 12 old kid has never used a closet except to hide in. What’s your point there?