Some say we have Marie Kondo—the organizing consultant, author and TV personality who champions tidying up and finding what sparks joy—to thank for our preoccupation on prioritizing how we organize our wardrobe and accessory collections. After all, when was the last time you felt joyful visiting your closet?
It would also be fair to point to TV figures such as Carrie Bradshaw and the Kardashians, whose oversized walk-in closets allow them to “shop” their own possessions like a department store, as partly responsible for our collective dissatisfaction with overcrowded closets. But whatever the cause, interior designers report that even the casual clothes horses among us are feeling the itch to transform what were once standard-issue bedroom closets into thoughtfully reimagined spaces.
A lack of space was definitely the number one issue for Lori Sapienza, who recently realized that her current closet space simply wasn’t adequate and ended up creating her dream closet for her wardrobe in a small unused guest room. And just like that, she found that the conversion not only allowed her to properly store and access all her items but gave her “so much joy” in the process. Chalk one up for Marie Kondo.
Brent Irish, Owner of Closet Envy Tampa Bay, advises that this is becoming an increasingly popular trend for homeowners.
“Many of our clients repurpose guest rooms or oversized bedrooms to create dream closets,” he explains. “They want their closets to feel like personal retreats, complete with seating, soft lighting and store-style displays. It's a lifestyle upgrade that adds daily value. Recently, we turned a spare room into a boutique-style closet with a center island, curved doors mixed with oversized vintage hardware, fluted drawer fronts and leather accents with a custom acrylic display for handbags.”
Design professionals say that level of personalization is the ultimate luxury. And while it may sound indulgent to some, there are those who argue that it simply allows you to engage with your clothing in a more intentional way.
But whether you’re dreaming of upgrading your average reach-in closet or building out a spacious custom walk-in, you might have something more significant than just a place to store your clothes on your mind.
Gretchen Rubin, author of The Happiness Project and Outer Order, Inner Calm, says it’s really about how organizing your surroundings can foster a sense of inner peace. She notes that while a messy environment or crowded closet may seem trivial in the context of a happy life, getting control of our belongings can make us feel more in control of our lives.
By decluttering, we free our minds and physical spaces for what we truly value. And just like the trend to incorporate spa-like features in the bathroom, personalized closet design and smart functionality can create a sense of ease for your morning routine or transform your experience when selecting just the right look for a special night out or packing for a trip.
A custom closet isn’t just a personal indulgence, it’s also ultimately a smart investment. Homebuyers today see organized storage as a must-have, and beautifully designed closets can make a home more appealing to buyers.
Companies like Closet Envy are also seeing increased demand for custom pantries, laundry rooms and even glam garages.
“Luxury garages are becoming increasingly popular, especially among clients who treat their garage as an extension of the home,” Irish explains. “We offer custom cabinetry, slat walls, durable worktops and overhead rack storage. These spaces are highly customized from tool storage to sports equipment zones to car display areas, and designed to be as stylish as they are practical. Luxury is all about attention to detail and thoughtful features that enhance functionality while elevating aesthetics.”
