No matter how big your house seemed when you moved in, it will eventually seem too small. Whether it’s a growing family or a shift to remote work, the chances that you’ll eventually wish you had just one more room are pretty high. With the cost of home additions starting at around $22,000, many look for budget-friendly ways to carve out more usable space.
The solution might be right in your house: your closets. While closets are useful for storage, they can be transformed into more functional spaces if you have one to spare. Here’s how you can creatively repurpose that space:
Transform into a Bedroom
Need an extra bedroom? A decent-sized closet might be the solution. Generally, a bedroom should be a minimum of 70 square feet, and a standard walk-in closet is typically about 65 square feet. While it won’t be a legal bedroom for listing purposes (as it lacks an egress window or door), it can serve as a cozy spot for guests or a child needing private space. Smaller closets can also be utilized with folding or bunk beds for a flexible sleeping area.
Create an Office
If you work remotely, a specific office space is key. Even the smallest closet can become a functional office or “cloffice.” Reach-in closets, usually two feet deep and three to eight feet wide, can accommodate a small desk and shelving, offering an organized workspace that you can hide away when the workday ends.
Build a Bar
Dream of having a home bar? A spare closet near your living area is perfect for this. A reach-in closet at least two feet deep by three feet wide can become a bar with a few steps: remove doors and hardware, patch and paint, and install a small fridge, a cabinet with a countertop, and glassware storage. Add lighting, stock it, and you’re ready to entertain.
Establish a Library
If books are taking over your house, convert a closet into a cozy library. A larger walk-in closet can house shelves, a chair, and a lamp. Even a small reach-in closet can accommodate bookshelves and a folding chair, creating a peaceful reading nook.
Set Up a Pantry
Transform an underused coat closet into a pantry by removing existing installations and adding floor-to-ceiling shelving. A closet near the kitchen is ideal, and adding door organizers can provide extra storage for food items.
Construct a Laundry Room
This is a more ambitious project, but impactful. If you’re comfortable with or willing to hire professionals for plumbing and electrical work, a closet can become a laundry room. Ensure your closet can accommodate appliances, allowing for clearance space. Consider adding behind-the-door storage for detergents and supplies.
Design a Recording Booth
For podcasters or those needing quiet for video calls, a closet can become a recording booth. Add acoustic foam panels and a sound dampening blanket to create a vocal isolation booth or a quiet meeting space. The small size makes it cost-effective to transform into a studio.
