How to Build Basic Closet Shelves Like a Pro | Step-by-Step Guide | Part 2 of 3 (Layout Design)

Category - Closets

Skill Level - 2

Closet shelving in a new home, specifically focusing on fixed particle board shelves, plays a pivotal role in the organization and storage within closet spaces. Particle board offers a cost-effective, durable, and versatile option for creating shelving that meets a variety of storage needs. This guide for installing fixed particle board closet shelving is divided into three distinct parts:

Part 1 - Standards: This section set the groundwork for the guide, outlining the specific material used—particle board—and detailing the design sections tailored to accommodate a range of storage needs. It covered the specifications for short hang sections for shirts and pants, long hang areas for dresses and coats, and shelf stacks for folded items and accessories. The focus here was on optimizing the use of space while ensuring the shelving is both functional and suits the homeowner's lifestyle.

Part 2 - Layout Design: This part of the guide delves into the layout design for different types of closets, including bedroom reach-ins, walk-ins, and primary closets with distinct sections for his/hers, shoe shelves, and more. This part focuses on planning and visualizing the closet layout to ensure efficient use of space and accessibility.

Part 3 - Building the Shelves: The final section of the guide will provide step-by-step instructions for the actual construction and installation of the fixed particle board shelves. It will cover necessary tools, materials, measurement and cutting techniques, assembly, and mounting, ensuring the shelves are securely and properly installed for optimal functionality and safety.

By adhering to this structured approach, the installation of fixed particle board closet shelving will not only meet the practical storage needs of homeowners but also contribute to the overall aesthetics and value of the new home.

Tools Needed

Tape measure Pencil

Standards from Part 1

Supplies Needed

None

Material Needed

None

Quality Check Criteria

Installer will have a clear plan for building the design created.

Process to Build Basic Closet Shelves - Part 2 of 3 (Layout Design)

This procedure covers layout designs for seven types of closets: Linen, Entry, Bedroom Reach-In, Bedroom Walk-In, Pantry, Laundry, and Primary Walk-In. Each type will utilize the shelving standards set forth in the first part of this SOP.

Layout Design for Each Closet Type

Linen Closet

Purpose and Use: A linen closet is specifically designed for storing household textiles such as towels, bed linens, tablecloths, and sometimes even toiletries and cleaning supplies. It plays a crucial role in home organization by providing a dedicated space to neatly organize and store these items, keeping them easily accessible and in good condition. Typically located in or near bathrooms or hallways, linen closets help maintain order and cleanliness throughout the home by ensuring that such essentials are stored away from dust and moisture, yet readily available when needed. This type of closet is essential in managing household supplies that are frequently used but need to be kept organized and out of sight to avoid clutter.

Standard Configuration: Employ a series of shelves strategically positioned to maximize vertical storage space in linen closets. Install shelves at heights of 20", 33", 46", 59", and a top shelf at 72" from the floor.

Depth Considerations: The top shelf, situated above the standard door height of 6'8", is less frequently accessed and ideal for storing lesser-used items. To enhance the usability of these higher shelves, adjust their depth based on overall closet depth:

• For closets with a typical shelf depth of 24 inches, reduce the top shelf to 16 inches. This adjustment makes it easier to see and access items, improving functionality without compromising storage efficiency.

• For a 16-inch deep closet, set the top shelf depth to 12 inches. This modification ensures that even the highest shelves are practical and accessible.

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These tailored depth adjustments ensure that all areas of the linen closet are both functional and reachable, optimizing space for efficiency and convenience.

Entry Closet

Purpose and Use: Entry closets, commonly located near the front or garage entrance of a home, are primarily used for storing coats and outerwear. They serve as a convenient storage solution for items that are typically needed when entering or leaving the home, such as jackets, hats, scarves, and boots. This type of closet is essential for keeping these everyday items organized and easily accessible, while also helping to keep the rest of the home tidy.

Standard Configuration: The standard setup for an entry closet includes a long hanging section with a shelf and rod positioned at 65 inches, and an additional shelf at 80 inches for storing items that are less frequently accessed, such as seasonal outerwear and accessories.

Customization Options:

• Double Hanging: For homeowners who do not require storage for long coats, a double hanging configuration can be implemented. This involves two levels of hanging rods, typically one at around 40 inches and another at 80 inches, maximizing the storage space for shorter items like jackets and shirts.

• Split Configuration: If the closet is sufficiently wide (typically 48 inches or wider, with a bifold, bypass, or center-opening door), it can be divided into two distinct sections by a vertical bulkhead. This split allows for various combinations of storage solutions based on the homeowner's needs:

• Long Hanging: One section can maintain the standard long hanging setup for coats and longer items.

• Double Hanging: Alternatively, one or both sections can feature double hanging for increased capacity of shorter garments.

• Shelf Stack: Additionally, one of the sections can be dedicated to shelving for storing non-hanging items such as footwear, boxes, or baskets.
  

This flexible approach to designing entry closets caters to the diverse storage needs of homeowners, ensuring that the space is both functional and well-organized.

Pantry

Purpose and Use: A pantry is an essential space in any home, designed to store food items, kitchen supplies, and sometimes small appliances. It serves as a centralized area to keep non-perishable groceries such as canned goods, grains, spices, and snacks, as well as bulk items that do not fit well in kitchen cabinets. The purpose of a pantry is to provide easy access to food and supplies while cooking or preparing meals, helping to keep the kitchen organized and free of clutter.

Standard Configuration: The standard configuration for a pantry includes a 16-inch deep shelving stack on all walls that can accommodate them, ensuring sufficient space is left for walking and accessibility. Typically, shelves are installed at multiple heights to maximize vertical storage space and accommodate items of varying sizes. The common layout consists of shelves at 20, 35, 50, 65, and 80 inches from the floor, making efficient use of the available wall space.

Customization Options:

• Deeper Countertop Shelf: For enhanced functionality, a deeper shelf of 24 inches can be introduced at countertop height (approximately 36 inches). This setup allows for storing larger kitchen items and appliances that require more space, making them easily accessible without taking up valuable kitchen counter space.

• Adjusted Shelf Heights: Accommodating a 24-inch deep shelf at countertop height necessitates adjusting the heights of the surrounding shelves. A recommended arrangement would include shelves at 18 inches (below countertop), 36 inches (countertop), 54, 69, and 84 inches, ensuring that each shelf is spaced evenly and provides practical storage solutions for items of different heights.

• Additional High Shelf: If ceiling heights permit, an additional shelf can be installed at a higher level (around 95 or 99 inches). This shelf is ideal for storing seldom-used items or bulk supplies that need to be kept out of the way but still accessible when needed. This option maximizes the storage capacity of the pantry by utilizing the vertical space effectively.
  

These customization options allow homeowners to tailor their pantry storage to their specific needs, enhancing the functionality and organization of their food storage areas.

Bedroom Closets: Walk-In and Reach-In

Purpose and Use

Bedroom closets, whether walk-in or reach-in, are integral to personal storage, providing a dedicated space for clothing, shoes, and accessories. These closets help keep bedrooms organized by offering structured storage solutions that keep everyday items neatly arranged and accessible. Walk-in closets offer a more expansive storage area and are typically featured in master bedrooms, providing luxurious space for an extensive wardrobe. Reach-in closets, while more compact, are designed to maximize storage within a smaller footprint, commonly found in secondary bedrooms.

Reach-In Closets: Typically feature wide doors, such as bifold, bypass, or center opening doors that are 48 inches wide or greater.

• Standard configuration: Splits the closet space down the middle: one side is set up with double hanging rods for shirts, pants, and other short items, while the other side features a long hang section for dresses, coats, and longer garments.
  

• Customization options:

  • Middle Shelf Stack - Introduce a shelving unit in the middle of the closet to provide additional storage for folded garments, shoes, or accessories. This helps organize smaller items and can serve as a divider between different sections of the closet.

  • Convertible Double Hang Side - On the double hang side, consider installing removable shelves at 20 and 60 inches. This feature allows the closet to be easily converted from double hang to a shelving-only setup, offering flexibility based on storage needs.

Walk-In Closets: Usually equipped with a swinging door to allow full access to the interior.

• Standard layout:

  • Often adopts an L-shaped configuration, with double hang sections on one wall for maximizing storage of shorter items and a long hang section on another wall for dresses and longer items.

• Customization Option: 

  • Additional Shelving: Incorporate a dedicated shelf stack for shoes or other items, enhancing organization and accessibility. This can be positioned strategically to make the best use of corners or smaller wall sections.
    

These customization options allow both walk-in and reach-in closets to be adapted according to individual storage needs and preferences, ensuring that these spaces are not only practical but also a pleasure to use.

Primary Walk-In Closets

Purpose and Use: Primary walk-in closets are expansive storage areas typically shared between couples in a master bedroom. These closets are designed to accommodate a wide range of clothing, accessories, and shoes, providing ample space for two individuals. The primary walk-in serves not just as a functional space for organization but also as a personal dressing area where one can select outfits and get ready comfortably.

Standard Configuration: The standard setup for primary walk-in closets includes a balanced design to cater to the needs of both individuals sharing the space:

• Long Hang Sections: Two long hang sections are provided, ideal for storing dresses, coats, and other longer items. This setup ensures that garments can be hung freely without touching the bottom of the closet.

• Double Hang Sections: Two double hang sections are included, allowing for efficient use of space with two levels of hanging rods; one typically positioned lower for shirts and tops and another above for pants hung by the cuff or other shorter items.

• Shelf Stacks: Two shelf stacks are strategically placed, providing dedicated space for folded clothes, handbags, and other accessories. These shelves help keep smaller items organized and easily accessible.
  

Customization Options: Using standard particle board shelving materials, customization can cater to specific storage needs and preferences:

• Adjustable Hanging Heights: Tailor the height of hanging sections to suit the users' heights, ensuring that clothes are within easy reach. This is particularly beneficial in closets shared by individuals of significantly different heights.

• Specialized Shoe Storage: For enthusiasts with extensive shoe collections, configure additional shoe shelves at closer intervals. This maximizes the number of shoes that can be stored and displayed.

• Boot Storage: Adjust the height of specific shelf sections within a shelf stack to accommodate tall boots, ensuring they are properly supported and easily accessible.

• Additional High Hanging Sections: In homes with higher ceilings (10 feet or more), add an extra hanging section near the ceiling for seasonal storage or lesser-used items. This effectively utilizes vertical space that would otherwise go unused.

• Pull-Down Rods: Incorporate pull-down rods for high-hanging sections. These rods make it easier to access clothes hung at higher levels without the need for a step stool, enhancing usability and safety.

• Customizable Shelf Heights: Allow for customization in the height spacing between shelves to accommodate items of varying sizes, from oversized handbags to stacked jeans, providing a flexible and adaptable storage solution.
  

These customization features enable the construction of a primary walk-in closet that not only maximizes space with standard materials but also adapts to the specific lifestyle and needs of the users, enhancing both functionality and satisfaction.