The closet design process can get very involved, even if you're handing the job off to a professional. There are many problems that come with upgrading closets, and the array of available closet design solutions is impressive. Finding one that is highly functional and meets your tastes will take a bit of effort.
Establish Goals
When sitting down with a professional to design a new closet, the first order of business is figuring out what you intend to accomplish. Do you need to increase the amount of available storage? Are you trying to tie the closet in with an adjoining room? Will you be downsizing? What do you absolutely need to store?
Understand Complications
There's a major difference between what can be accomplished if you're starting a new residential build or if you're trying to remodel. During an initial building, your primary concerns will be about trading off future space for a closet. In the renovation process, you may be limited by the surrounding structures, such as walls, support beams and neighboring rooms.
Look at Past Attempts
At some point, you've probably tried installing one or two systems intended to accomplish your goals without a full redesign. When you discuss closet design solutions, be clear about what you did or didn't like about those configurations. In many cases, a design can work from what you liked to produce something that may be more pleasing, efficient and effective.
Don't Forget the Completion Schedule
Dealing with a construction or renovation schedule can be a challenge, and you want to be upfront about your expectations for the completion of a job. Bear in mind that want to get a project done in one or two days is going to cost you money. For some especially large closets, it may not be possible.
Create a Budget
Before you get too far into a project, you should determine how much money you're going to put into it. This may lead to some trading off between costs and appearance. You want to prioritize functionality over looks in order to ensure your closet gets the job done.
There are a number of design tools available that'll allow you and a professional to go through quick revisions of concepts to see what looks good and fits into your budget. Be aware that customization tends to drive up costs. If, for example, using off-the-shelf drawers allows you to save money, strongly consider it.
Contact a company like American Built In Closets for more information.