How to Turn a Bedroom Into a Closet: Conversion Tips & Ideas
The problem: Your clothes and accessories don’t fit in your current closet set up. You can’t find certain items, tops are constantly on the floor, there’s mile high piles of folded clothes. It’s just not working.
If you have a spare room collecting dust, it might be just the upgrade your wardrobe needed. Transforming a bedroom into a walk-in closet is one of the smartest ways to gain functional, stylish storage. Whether you’re dreaming of a boutique style dressing room, or simply want a space that holds all your seasonal clothes, this guide covers everything you need to know.
When Does Converting a Bedroom Make Sense?
Should you really turn an entire bedroom into a closet? Sometimes, the answer is a resounding yes.
It’s an easy “yes” if:
You have an office or guest room that rarely gets used.
You have a bonus room that’s already functioning as a (disorganized) storage room.
Your primary bedroom lacks adequate closet space.
You’re more focused on everyday function than future resale value.
You want a more organized and luxurious way to store clothes and accessories
You’re tired of wrestling with seasonal storage and outdoor sports gear.
A Few Things to Consider:
Resale value: Removing a bedroom could impact your home’s resale appeal. That said, in luxury markets or for buyers who value organization, a well-designed closet can be a standout feature.
Layout Flow: Does the room’s location make sense for a closet? Ideally, it should be adjacent to the primary bedroom or laundry room.
Permits and structural changes: Cosmetic updates typically don’t require permits, but if you’re removing walls or adjusting electrical or plumbing, check with a local remodeling contractor.
How to Turn a Bedroom Into a Closet: Your Step-by-Step Guide
Benefits of bedroom-to-closet conversion, when it makes sense (bulleted list), potential impact on home value, things to consider before committing (resale, layout, permits if needed)
Step 1: Assess Your Room and Needs
Questions to Answer:
Do you need to find inspiration to declutter your closet and get rid of items before starting a closet conversion project?
What are your day-to-day clothing habits? Are you reaching for a gym outfit every morning? Do you need an organization system for your corporate clothes?
What types of items will you store– just clothes? Or shoes, accessories, luggage, and winter sports gear, too?
Is the room square, long and narrow, or an unconventional shape? Your design choices need to be in flow with the room.
Step 2: Plan Your Layout
Think of your closet in zones- hanging clothes, folded storage, shoes, special occasion, and accessories.
Tips from the Pros:
Allow at least 24” of depth for hanging rods.
Create clear walkways so you’re not bumping into furniture. A standard to go by is 36” (e.g., between shelving and an island.)
Make use of natural light if possible– if not, plan to install proper lighting for visibility and ambiance. We suggest a warm white to see your clothes’ accurate color shade.
Step 3: Remove or Modify Existing Furniture
Clear out the bed, dresser, moving boxes, and anything else that doesn’t contribute to your new setup. If you’re keeping any pieces, consider refinishing or repurposing them– for example, a nightstand could transform into a jewelry station. Or a bookshelf could serve as a shoe rack.
Step 4: Choose a Closet System
This is where thoughtful design turns a spare room into something special– and where a little professional help can elevate your space from a make-shift DIY project to a true room upgrade.
You have three main options:
Wall-mounted: All shelving and hanging rods are mounted off the floor. This will be the most cost effective route.
Hybrid system: A happy medium– a mix of wall-mounted hanging sections and floor based shelving or drawer units. You can extend shelving options and drawer space while still keeping cost in mind.
Total floor based closet system: The gold standard for a polished, high-end result. Great for maximizing every inch of space while keeping you and your needs at the forefront.
Step 5: Add Storage Accessories
Where functionality meets personalized fun. These touches don’t just make your closet look luxurious, they make it work better. Whether you’re needing snow sport clothing storage, more room for your shoe collection, or incorporating space to get ready, ask yourself what you need to make your perfect custom closet. Think:
Pull-out shoe racks
Lined jewelry drawers
Adjustable shelving
Tie and belt organizers
Sliding hampers
Vanities
Soft-close drawers
Step 6: Style with Finishing Touches
Add those final touches like a mirror, statement lighting, or a cozy bench to complete the transformation. Thoughtfully chosen accessories can turn your closet into a space you enjoy getting ready in– not just another place to stash your stuff.
Pro Tip:
If your closet has a window, place your full-length mirror on the same wall to take advantage of soft, natural light. It’ll give you an evenly lit reflection for a more flattering view.
Small Bedroom? No Problem.
The right closet system can make any size space work. You can still create a dreamy walk-in feel with these smart design strategies, even if you’re working with a small bedroom conversion:
Go vertical: Use the full height of your walls for shelving or hanging storage
Use valets and telescopic rods: These let you double up on hanging space for belt, tie, and scarf racks.
Opt for sliding doors: Great for tight rooms where swing-out doors block off space
Use light and mirrors: reflective surfaces can make the room feel larger and more open.
Keep it minimal: The less visual clutter, the more spacious the closet feels.
Closet Conversion FAQ
-
Simply put, it’s hard to know. The cost will be completely driven by the size of the room, material selections, and desired components. If you choose to go the DIY route, you’ll spend less. Custom built systems will naturally cost more, but provide the best functionality and resale appeal.
At More Space Place Greenville, our design team can help you figure out what’s realistic for your space and budget– and install it with precision. A DIY kit can work, but nothing beats a closet that’s thoughtfully designed around you.
-
While you technically lose a bedroom, a well-designed closet can boost perceived luxury and functionality—especially in high-end or custom homes. For some buyers, that added organization is more desirable than an extra unused bedroom.
-
Absolutely. If you’re going the DIY route, you can often convert the space with no construction required—just furniture moving and basic installation. Built-ins may require more extensive work.
-
While many perceive a “simple” DIY conversion to take a weekend, it typically gets drawn out due to trouble shooting the intricacies of the build. As you know, there’s nothing worse than a drawn out house project with no firm end in sight.
From order placement to completed installation, a custom build typically takes 6-12 weeks depending on your timeline, local production of your custom order, and the installation calendar. For more information on how our process works, check out Our Process here.
Ready to Transform Your Space?
If you’re dreaming of a walk-in closet but don’t want the hassle of doing it alone, More Space Place Greenville can help. From smart storage solutions to full-service custom design, we’ll help you create a closet that’s built specifically tailored to your personal needs: functional, beautiful, and built to last.