Next Up

30 Closet Design Ideas

Follow Maria on:

Create the closet of your dreams with these designer-inspired decorating ideas, including unexpected wallpaper applications, built-in cabinetry and statement-making light fixtures.

Price and stock could change after publish date, and we may make money off these affiliate links. Learn more.
Photo: Sarah Winchester Studios
Scroll For More Photos
1 / 31

Get Inspired By These Closet Designs

Whether you’re in the beginning stages of designing your dream closet from scratch or looking for a few quick fixes to breathe new life into your wardrobe over the weekend — you’re in the right place. We’re covering all the bases to help you on your journey, sharing 30 stunning designer closets ripe with inspiration for unique wall treatments, color palettes, hardware, floor coverings and light fixtures. Click ahead to check out the best closet design ideas to inspire your space, plus tips and tricks on how to recreate the looks in your closet at home.

Get More Ideas

More photos after this Ad

Photo: Todd Goodman of LA Light Photo
2 / 31

Green With Envy

Prepare to be the envy of all your friends when you give your closet a paint job inspired by this lush design. Sage walls and cane-front cabinetry set the tone for tranquility in this contemporary primary closet. The fresh green hue continues from the built-in wardrobes onto the ceiling overhead and the marble-topped island at the center of the room, yielding soothing and cohesive results akin to a luxury spa. Capture the same relaxing appeal in your closet; paint your wardrobe shelves, cabinets, walls and ceiling a cool mid-tone green and layer in finishing touches like sun-bleached baskets, ivory linen window treatments, polished nickel hardware and creamy-white marble boxes, frames or countertops.

Learn More

More photos after this Ad

Photo: David Christensen
3 / 31

Add Interest Overhead

Why limit wallpaper to your closet walls when you can take a page out of designer Brittany Cason Johnston’s book and use it to add interest overhead instead? Not only does this technique yield high-end results, but it’s often more cost-effective than papering four walls. Graphic cream-and-black wallpaper lines the ceiling, bringing whimsy to the custom closet design and complementing the inky cabinets and gold hardware below. Get the look in your primary closet by installing a pattern-clad paper to the ceiling in a color story that coordinates with your existing walls or cabinets.

Get the How-To

More photos after this Ad

From: Kayla Dane
4 / 31

Use the Midas Touch

Give your primary closet a glamorous facelift in a flash with the help of some new golden hardware. Unlacquered brass cabinet knobs and custom brass railings usher opulence and warmth into this classic, creamy-white closet. Four gleaming wire bins tuck neatly into built-in nooks overhead, providing open-air accessory storage and rounding out the metallics in the space.

Shop Our Favorites

More photos after this Ad

Photo: Joseph Bradshaw
5 / 31

Put it in Neutral

Have your notebook at the ready, friend! This roomy walk-in closet provides a blueprint for creating an earthy, grounding space to jumpstart your day. The custom shelving unit, walls and ceiling are a cozy camel hue that gently contrasts the airy white oak floors below. Woven rattan hampers, white-washed wicker storage baskets, earthenware sculptures and stacked hardcover books add texture to the closet design and complement the toasty brown tones within the space.

Get More Ideas

More photos after this Ad

Photo: Chi Chi Eubaina . From: Amy Zolin
6 / 31

Or, Add a Pop of Color

Growing tired of your simple white or neutral closet? Enliven the space with saturated accents in a single, striking shade to achieve the same boutique-inspired appeal as this pretty-in-pink design. A custom upholstered fuchsia pouf is the focal point of this otherwise greige primary closet. The same deep pink tone on the leopard stool inspires the fabric used on the striped window seat and the posy-adorned window treatment for a well-rounded design.

Get More Ideas

More photos after this Ad

Photo: Kyle Born. From: Michelle Gage Interiors
7 / 31

Make Art Your Muse

If you're coming up short on inspiration for your big closet makeover, turn to your art collection for clues and make one of your most cherished pieces your closet’s color palette muse. Interior designer Michelle Gage shows how it’s done in this charming walk-in closet inspired by a striking portrait. Aqua and white tile floors mirror the painting’s dimensional blue backdrop, while the white oak cabinetry mirrors the woman’s skin tone. Rose gold hardware shines against the oak, representing the woman’s copper hair, and black boxes offer out-of-sight storage that speaks to the painting’s inky frame.

Get More Ideas

More photos after this Ad

Photo: Village Properties, a member of Luxury Portfolio International. From: Village Properties and Luxury Portfolio International®
8 / 31

Wrap the Walls in Walnut

It doesn’t get more timeless than this custom walnut-wrapped primary closet. Bespoke wooden wardrobes line the closet walls, providing ample hanging storage for coats, dresses and more. The glossy cabinet doors fit with bronze handles and glass windows, making it easy for owners to assess their clothing from afar. Crisp, shaded chandeliers and wall sconces complement the snowy-white marble counters used on the vanity and sorting table and brighten the otherwise richly shadowed design. Achieve a similar sporty look in your closet with rich, stained wood paneling or install a vintage walnut dresser, armoire or chest of drawers against one wall.

Get Inspired

More photos after this Ad

Photo: David Christensen for Southeastern Designer Showhouse & Gardens
9 / 31

Dial Up the Drama

Drama abounds in this well-appointed primary closet. Floor-to-ceiling wardrobes fitted with rose gold mirror doors line opposite walls, visually expanding the narrow walk-through. Gray-washed chevron planks line the floor, drawing the eyes through the space, landing on the pièce de résistance: a stone pillar and bust sculpture framed by luxe velvet drapes. Emulate the same luxurious appeal in your closet by styling a spare shelf with a similar sculpture or installing velvet panels in front of your shoe rack to create elegant, out-of-sight storage.

Shop Our Favorites

More photos after this Ad

Photo: Halstead Real Estate, a member of Luxury Portfolio International. From: Halstead Real Estate and Luxury Portfolio International®
10 / 31

Make a Sparkling Statement

Want to give your closet a new lease on life without pulling out your paint rollers or splurging on fancy hardware? Swap out your closet’s builder-grade light fixture for something that sparkles. A periwinkle Venetian glass chandelier lends a playful quality to this otherwise buttoned-up white closet and speaks to the owners’ luxurious lifestyle. Install a brilliant, semi-flush pendant or chandelier in an eye-catching color or silhouette for similarly brilliant results in your closet.

Get More Ideas

More photos after this Ad

Photo: Shelley Cahan ©. From: Shelley and Company Interior Design
11 / 31

Play With Pattern

Your kiddo’s closet offers a prime opportunity to experiment with bold colors and playful prints you may be hesitant to use elsewhere in your home. Case in point? This preppy-industrial boys’ dream closet executed to perfection by the pros at Shelley and Company Interior Design. Its walls are dressed to impress with a Shibori-meets-faux bois wallpaper, punctuated by a border of inky indigo and ivory millwork. A slate aviation-themed paper lines the ceiling, and a pair of metallic steampunk trunks provides unexpected drawer storage. Abstract artwork, sculptural tchotchkes and theatrical marquee lights round out the closet with youthful panache.

Shop Our Favorites

More photos after this Ad

12 / 31

Accessorize, Accessorize, Accessorize

Never underestimate how impactful a few thoughtful accessories are within a space. Take cues from this walk-in and make your small closet feel larger than life by pulling up a beautiful chair, unrolling a rug and plugging in a petite table lamp. Having a place to sit while you throw on your jewelry (or pile your worn-once-but-not-dirty-enough-for-the-wash clothes) creates a homey feeling you’ll look forward to each morning. The best part? You don’t need to spend a fortune to reap rich results in your closet. Shop your home for a lamp and rug, then scour your go-to thrift shop for a unique accent chair that you can refinish or reupholster to suit your space.

More photos after this Ad

Photo: Dave Bryce Photography. From: Lauren Levant
13 / 31

Reimagine Vintage Cabinetry

If you love contemporary closet systems’ storage potential but feel their look leaves much to be desired — this design hack is for you. Skip the store-bought shelving units and instead source your go-to thrift shops and online marketplaces for vintage cabinets, dressers or armoires to create bespoke built-in closet storage. This dapper walk-in offers ample inspiration. Designer Lauren Levant forgoes wire and plyboard shelving and reimagines vintage bird's-eye maple cabinetry into a one-of-a-kind wardrobe, finished with integrated LED lighting and wraparound shoe storage.

See More Photos

More photos after this Ad

Photo: Alexia Fodere. From: DKOR Interiors
14 / 31

Or, Take a Minimalist Approach

Not a fan of vintage cabinetry? Not a problem. This contemporary oceanfront closet makes a case for minimalism with its unadorned doors and no-fuss finishes. The galley-style closet features floor-to-ceiling wardrobes with matte white oak doors and contrasting iron handles. Concrete floors create a clean base for the space, while recessed lights line the ceiling overhead. A floor-to-ceiling window punctuates the closet, mirroring the lines of the wardrobe doors and offering owners sweeping sea views as they dress for the day. Achieve the same sleek look in your closet with flat-faced cabinetry and contrasting matte hardware.

Learn More

More photos after this Ad

15 / 31

Turn Your Reach-In Closet Into Built-In Character

If your bifold closet doors feel a bit drab, consider this your sign to replace them with a built-in armoire and wardrobe a la this stately setup by designer Lisa McDougald. This elegant alternative to a reach-in closet allows you to tailor your storage space to fit your needs and adds instant character to any room. Follow McDougald’s lead and employ a glossy wooden armoire as the built-in focal point, or skip that step and create one continuous wardrobe.

Get Inspired

More photos after this Ad

Photo: Design 4 Corners. From: Design 4 Corners
16 / 31

Pare Back for Impact

It's true what they say: Less is more. Make this minimalist walk-through wardrobe your muse and create the clean-lined closet of your dreams. Flat-paneled floor-to-ceiling wood cabinets line each wall to provide generous out-of-sight storage. The honey-stained wood coordinates with the golden planks and sisal rug underfoot to create a cocoon of warmth ideal for getting ready each morning. Sleek oil-rubbed bronze handles punctuate the cabinet doors and complement the plush charcoal bench at the center of the room.

More photos after this Ad

Photo: Emily Minton Redfield. From: Duet Design Group
17 / 31

Or, Paint the Town Pink

Another unequivocal truth? Sometimes, more is more. Skip the simple white walls and wood cabinets and let your love of color shine with a punchy paint job and a slew of striking accessories. This doll-worthy walk-in closet boasts ballerina pink cabinetry with smoked mirror inlays and gilded hardware. A hand-painted floral console table nestles beneath a window with a faux fur chair, providing a chic spot to apply makeup with plenty of natural light. The sparkling Sputnik chandelier is a beacon of glamour as it illuminates the dreamy blush closet from overhead.

Get Inspired

More photos after this Ad

Photo: Bethany Nauert. From: DMAR Interiors
18 / 31

Soften With Organic Accessories

Soften streamlined (read: stark) elements in your contemporary closet design with earthy accents and organic materials. DMAR Interiors balances the neutral wood cabinetry, pewter pulls and cool slate floors with a lush foliage arrangement, creamy-white cotton bins and wicker storage baskets in this custom closet.

Shop Our Favorites

More photos after this Ad

Photo: House of Jade Interiors. From: House of Jade Interiors
19 / 31

Roll Out All the Stops

Infuse your white closet with personality with the help of a vibrant vintage rug. A fiery medallion runner extends across this airy walk-in, bringing storied charm and bohemian flair to the otherwise unadorned space. A terra-cotta bust, potted plant and dipped wicker basket complement the rug and round out the design.

Learn More

More photos after this Ad

Photo: Dennys Ilic
20 / 31

Join the Dark Side

Let this jaw-dropping design be the push you need to join the dark side and paint your closet black. The moody primary closet features ebonized cabinetry, gold hardware and open shelf storage for (at least) 50 pairs of shoes. A gilt linear Sputnik chandelier glows above the statement-making marble island at the center of the room. The snow-white stone demands attention against the inky cabinetry, and the high contrast combination lends the space a contemporary, glamorous appeal. Capture the same juxtaposition in your closet by offsetting your black cabinetry with white marble accessories, or splurge on a remnant slab for a custom island countertop.

Get More Ideas

More photos after this Ad

Photo: Pfeffer Torode Architecture. From: Pfeffer Torode Architecture
21 / 31

Put Some Pep in Your Step

Wake up your wood-clad closet walls with a peppy rug or carpet in a contrasting color. This bright-white runner mirrors the white ceiling overhead, preventing the narrow space from feeling too dark or boxed in. The best part? The dove gray Greek key pattern works as a seamless complement to the polished nickel hardware.

Shop Our Favorites

More photos after this Ad

Photo: Bjorg Magnea
22 / 31

It's all Smoke and Mirrors

Bid adieu to your closet’s bifold doors and treat yourself to gorgeous, gleaming upgrades inspired by this luxury design. Mirrored closet doors are interior design mainstays because they work overtime to provide a practical function for the space while visually expanding even the most modest square footage. This passageway closet puts a contemporary twist on the classic with striking smoked glass doors. The hazy finish offers the same functionality as standard mirrored panels but in decidedly elevated packaging.

More photos after this Ad

Photo: Ryan Garvin, Architect: Cynthia Childs, Contractor: Chris Jenkins, Pool & Landscape Design: Garden Studio. From: sKout
23 / 31

Daily Disco

Give your morning a groovy start with a bold, disco-inspired pendant glowing overhead. The oversized spherical light fixture is the natural focal point in this bohemian walk-in closet, bringing a touch of glamour to the otherwise laid-back design. Recreate the same vibes in your closet by pairing your capiz shell pendant with mixed metal cabinet hardware, cognac leather seating, wood accents and a larger-than-life dried floral bouquet.

Get More Ideas

More photos after this Ad

Photo: Rethink Design Studio. From: Rethink Design Studio
24 / 31

Install Fashion-Foward Fretwork

Zhuzh up your existing closet cabinet doors with custom woodwork inspired by the fretwork at play in this primary closet. Intricate geometric molding adds dimension to the gray-washed mirrored doors and island and draws focus to the center of the room.

Get Inspired

More photos after this Ad

Photo: Tony Soluri Photography. From: Stephanie Wohlner
25 / 31

Sit Pretty on a Chaise Lounge

Create a cozy seating area for contemplating your next outfit with a sprawling and sophisticated chaise lounge. This charming closet sets the bar with built-in drawers, a shaded crystal chandelier and a plush lounge beneath a pair of well-dressed windows. Capture the same effortless elegance in your walk-in by layering your chaise with a velvet lumbar pillow and buttery flatweave throw. Oh, and a pro tip: Add a gorgeous little cocktail table into the mix for your morning cappuccino or glass of date night Barolo.

Get More Ideas

More photos after this Ad

Photo: Rethink Design Studio. From: Rethink Design Studio
26 / 31

Install Statement-Making Sconces

Quality light fixtures are a failproof way to elevate any room, your closet being no exception. This transitional closet features a built-in nook with a mirror and vanity cabinet for throwing on perfume or finishing touches. A pair of crystal-stemmed sconces with tailored linen shades flank the nook mirror, providing owners ambient lighting and lending the closet a bespoke Craftsman look. The good news? You can achieve this high-end look without spending a fortune because sconces are available in all design styles and price points. And, if you’re not ready to commit to hardwired fixtures, you can try out the look in your space with the easy-to-install plug-in options.

Learn More

More photos after this Ad

Photo: Bronwyn Poole. From: Bronwyn Poole
27 / 31

Add Eclectic Touches

Make a big impact on your small closet with a mix of eclectic accessories and collected artwork. This walk-in wardrobe paints a story of the owner’s travels with a reclaimed wood bench, a freestanding Moroccan mirror and a playful plaster floral chandelier. A leafy potted tree and framed artwork crown the built-in shoe shelving and usher lively color into the spotless white space.

Get Inspired

More photos after this Ad

Photo: Michael Kaskel
28 / 31

Turn Up the Texture

Infuse character into your existing prefab closet system by strategically layering textural accessories. This bohemian walk-in closet sets the bar with its lustrous hand-knotted ivory rug, a faux Mongolian stool and woven baskets tucked throughout for storage. A sun-bleached dough bowl and sculpture line are arranged boutique-style on one shelf for open-air jewelry storage; a plaster bust vase and brass framed mirror add playful whimsy to the next. Gold-foiled black wallpaper bridges the gap between the closet unit and ceiling, and a pair of cheeky framed portraits lean against the wall, surveying the wardrobe from overhead.

Shop Our Favorites

More photos after this Ad

29 / 31

Climb the Ladder

Give your reach-in closet a designer facelift with a sleek, sliding library ladder. Not only is this scholarly touch guaranteed to add ample charm to your closet design, but a library ladder offers a practical solution that enables you to grab your long-lost boots and sweaters from the top shelf in a flash. You know, without haphazardly climbing on an accent chair or enlisting the help of your spouse in the process.

Get the How-To

More photos after this Ad

From: Kayla Dane
30 / 31

Plant Seeds of Style

Transform your closet into your own secret garden by applying a few rolls of daring floral wall treatments on your walls, drawers and shelves. A blooming black wallpaper provides a spirited backdrop for this eclectic walk-in closet. The kicky floral motif continues from the walls onto the drawer fronts below, creating visual cohesion in the design. Glossy purple crown molding frames the ceiling and ties in with the lavender blooms woven throughout the room, while black-and-white striped paper lines each closet shelf to complement the inky hue of the focal point floral pattern.

Get the How-To

More photos after this Ad

Photo: David Christensen for Southeastern Designer Showhouse & Gardens
31 / 31

Curate Inspiring Vignettes

This tailored walk-in closet puts a contemporary twist on traditional wood-paneled wardrobes with its gray-washed cabinetry, metallic sculptures and glossy glass-front drawers. A built-in nook offers daily style inspiration with accessories like a black-and-white photograph of David Bowie by Steve Schapiro, dried floral pods in a crystal vase and stacked coffee table books. Curate a similar vignette in your closet with framed prints of your fashion icons, metallic tchotchkes and your go-to accessories in glass display boxes.