How do we best describe a closet?

An enclosed space or a structure designed for storage, particularly clothes? Or should we say, an amalgamation of aesthetics and function when it comes to storing things?

Whatever term we may assign to a closet, all definitions meet at a central point: it helps you to declutter and serves as your personal organizer. (Read: How to Organize Your Home Closet System)

Now, if you are looking to buy one for your master bedroom, you should be aware that there are many types available in the market. They all serve different functions and might not be right for every home. Let us guide you through the types to assess the attributes of each, so you can make the best decision.

1. Walk-in Closet

A walk-in closet is the ultimate design indulgence for your home, especially the master bedroom which sports a lot of space.

A walk-in closet is an architectural dream with multifaceted design storage that leaves you asking for more. In fact, the spacious storage element is often referred to as a room within a room. The closet can be a few sq feet in area or as huge as a room, equipped with windows to maintain the temperature within. The closet can be customized as per the need of the user.

There can be a set of multiple drawers in the closet for the storage of miscellaneous items. Then there can be sliding shelves with drawers behind the façade. With an array of pull out mechanisms, a walk-in can sport all type of pull-out accessories like a shirt pull-out, a trouser pull-out, a belt, and a tie pull-out or maybe a simple pull-out shelf — all with different functions. The vertical space can be used to store shoes and accessories too.

While some go overboard with its interiors, some like to keep it simple. It all depends on you, really. We have seen a lot of people using a gold chandelier above the closet for a regal addition, and we love it! You may add seating or a dresser inside it to make your life easier too. Think of this as your clothes kingdom and do as you please!

Ultimately, a walk-in is a style statement on its own but not every house may have the clearance for it. If you are lucky enough to, be creative with it. (Read: A Complete Guide To Walk-In Closet Dimensions And Layouts)

Benefits of Having a Walk-in Closet

• A walk-in closet is a perfect choice for storing your clothes, shoes, jewelry, miscellaneous accessories and a lot more. They are completely open to customization and homeowners can have a lot of fun with them too.
• A walk-in is the ideal private spot that you can use for getting dressed in minimum time. You can install a mirror, a hairdryer, and other stuff and change the space into a chic dressing room.
• It is a perfect place for that coveted ‘me time’ and can serve as your personal den.
• You can safely store all your valuables in here and simply lock the door. At least, within the home, this space can be attributed as the safest of all.
• Since generally, a walk-in closet is spacious in area, organizing and retrieving stuff becomes a breeze.

2. Reach-in Closets

A reach-in closet is another widely used closet. However, it is smaller in size when compared to a walk-in closet.

These have been around for quite a while, and their main role originally is to provide space for hanging clothes by a rod provided in the closet, with an open shelf above.

However, this definition of reach-in closets has taken on a different semblance today. The closets today are at least an arm’s length deep with the width running anywhere between 3 to 8 feet. They are well equipped with partitions, hinged doors, the sliding mechanism to run the doors or even pull-aside curtains.

In short, reach-in closets have completely reinvented themselves to suit the need of the contemporary psyche. Closets with white folding doors, modern spacious wardrobes with matte glass doors — you name it!

Benefits of Reach-in Closets

• Reach-in closets are perfect for combining various storage options aided by clever positioning. This opens up the storage space and also helps with the organization.
• These closets come with storage elements, like long bars for hanging the clothes, and shelves and drawers for tucking away pants and shirts. Basically, the storage components are combined in a way that lets you store the content neatly without occupying much space.
• The drawers can be utilized to store jewelry, accessories, lingerie and important documents.
• They are also good enough to hang door organizers that will store your shoes or even cosmetics in a perfect organized fashion; highlighting the beauty of the arrangement.

3. Armoires or Wardrobes

An armoire is essentially a decorative, free-standing large cupboard which functions as a wardrobe.

There are some basic differences between a closet and a wardrobe, though. A closet is a designated space for storage, while a wardrobe can be procured from a furniture store or even built as per your requirements. These wardrobes are available in a variety of sizes, patterns and serve many dynamic purposes in homes.

Typically an armoire has a lot of hanging space, besides boasting of shelves and drawers for storage.

Benefits of an Armoire

• An armoire is ideal for adding an elegant touch to your bedroom with its vintage flavor.
• The piece of furniture especially complements the look of bedrooms that have large beds. However, smaller versions of armoires have also made a mark lately.
• If you have a lot of clothes and want to keep them tidy and well-organized, this product is for you.
• An armoire can even be placed in the living room for keeping the TV and other stuff.
• You can even store your children’s toys, games, etc. here.
• Use an armoire in the dining space to store your cutlery, crockery, and other tableware. You can even place a few artifacts in the armoire to give an ambient touch to your home.
• An armoire is portable and can be moved around to any part of your home as desired.

4. Linen Closet

A linen closet is essentially a smaller version of a reach-in closet. They are generally narrow and are located in hallways between bathrooms and bedrooms. These closets can have architectural elements as bifold doors, sliding doors, hinged doors or doorless access.

Benefits of a Linen Closet

• A linen closet is used to store towels, bedding, bed sheets, extra pillows and sheets for guests and even bathroom utilities.
• It is common for the modern-day apartments to store a dryer and a washer in the linen closet.
• The storage potential of a linen closet is largely determined by the extent of its shelving efficiency.