Declutter Your Life: 7 Must-Have Features in a Custom Closet

If opening your closet fills you with stress instead of calm, it may be time for a change. Clutter not only takes up physical space—it creates mental chaos. The solution? A custom closet system designed around your lifestyle. At Space Age Shelving & Design, we believe a well-organized closet is one of the most powerful upgrades you can make to your home.

In this blog, we’ll explore the 7 must-have features that elevate a closet from basic to life-changing—helping you declutter, simplify, and truly enjoy your space.

1. Double Hanging Rods: Twice the Storage

One of the easiest ways to double your storage space is to double the hanging space. Instead of a single rod across your closet, custom designs often include two-tier hanging sections—one for shirts and jackets, and one below for pants or skirts.

This simple solution maximizes vertical space and instantly gives your closet more functionality without adding bulk.

2. Built-In Drawers: A Dresser Inside Your Closet

Built-in drawers allow you to skip bulky bedroom furniture and consolidate your storage. They’re ideal for:

Undergarments
Folded clothes
Accessories
Workout wear

At Space Age Shelving & Design, we offer full extension, soft-close drawers in a range of finishes, from modern matte to warm woodgrain. You can even add dividers and liners for added organization.

3. Adjustable Shelving: Customize as You Grow

Needs change over time—your closet should too. That’s why adjustable shelving is essential in any custom closet. Whether your shoe collection expands or you want to make room for new baskets, flexible shelves make your space truly future-proof.

We install durable, adjustable melamine shelves that move effortlessly to suit your needs. It’s all about adaptability.

4. Shoe Storage That Works for You

Shoes are often the hardest to organize—but also the most satisfying when done right. A custom closet should include a dedicated shoe storage solution such as:

Sloped display shelves for visibility
Flat adjustable shelves for stacking or separating styles
Pull-out shoe racks for efficient use of depth

Whether you have a modest shoe lineup or a full-blown collection, we’ll build the perfect setup to keep them tidy, accessible, and scuff-free.

5. Hidden Hampers: Keep It Clean

A visible laundry basket ruins the aesthetic of any space. That’s why we love built-in hampers—a discreet feature that blends seamlessly with your closet cabinetry.

You can opt for:

Pull-out hampers with removable bags
Tilt-open doors
Dual compartments for sorting lights and darks

It’s practical storage that stays out of sight.

6. Valet Rods & Pull-Out Accessories

Sometimes it’s the small features that have the biggest impact. A valet rod is a sleek, extendable bar that lets you hang tomorrow’s outfit or prep for a trip. It’s also great for steaming clothes or staging looks.

7. Overhead and Vertical Storage

Don’t let that top shelf become wasted space! Our designs incorporate floor-to-ceiling storage with strategically placed cabinets, cubbies, or shelving. These upper sections are perfect for:

Seasonal clothing

Luggage

Hats and handbags

Keepsakes

We even offer pull-down closet rods for high spaces—perfect for walk-ins with taller ceilings.

🏷️ “If it’s out of reach, it doesn’t have to be out of mind.”

Bonus Tip: Lighting That Elevates Everything

Though not technically “storage,” LED lighting is a game-changer in any custom closet. Use it to:

Brighten dark corners

Highlight your wardrobe

Add ambiance

Improve visibility while dressing

At Space Age Shelving & Design, we can incorporate integrated strip lighting, puck lighting, lighted glass shelves, and motion sensors into your closet system for a polished, modern touch.

Declutter for Good With Space Age Shelving & Design

We’ve helped thousands of homeowners across Cambridge, Kitchener, Waterloo, Guelph, Brantford, Woodstock, and surrounding communities transform their closets since 1987, from chaotic to calming. Our team of design and installation experts will walk you through every step—from measuring your space to selecting finishes to final installation.

Whether you’re organizing a walk-in, reach-in, or hallway closet, we’ll build a system that keeps your home and your mind clear.

Let us help you create a closet that works smarter and looks better. Call Space Age Shelving & Design or visit our Cambridge showroom to get started.