What Materials Are Used to Build Custom Closets?

While planning out your closet makeover, you may be wondering what materials are used to build a custom closet system. The material you choose for your custom closet build-out will depend on your budget, storage needs, utilization purposes, and ability to withstand wear and tear. From custom shelves and cabinets to personalized organization systems that are made for you; custom closet solutions are endless and the materials used range from wood and metals to melamine and MDF. 

Wood is one of the oldest and most traditional building materials used in custom closet design and depending on how you choose to use your closet, it may be the material that you choose to work with. Durable and lightweight, plywood is oftentimes used in closet design. You will also find that professional custom closet designers choose sustainable, eco-friendly types of wood during installation that come in a great selection of stains to match your aesthetics. Wood closets take a bit of skill in measurements and know-how to install, which can make a big difference in choosing the professional you have work with you. You may find yourself faced with the choice of 100 percent real solid wood, or compressed wood during your custom closet build. Whichever material you choose will surely make a gorgeous, well-organized space. Your pick of what type of wood material to use depends on your budget and needs, which can all be answered by a professional closet installer.

Metal racks and shelves are not a new item in custom closet design, but with updated colors and organization options, this long-trusted material can update a closet or kitchen pantry quickly. From wire racks that hold up for years to come with the right installation to sleek metal shelves that are durable for heavy loads; these materials are still a go-to choice for kitchen pantries, linen closets, kids closets and walk-in’s that need an extra boost of organization options. Metal mixed with woods have become a recent trend over the past few years. Many custom closets will include beautiful solid wood cabinets and sleek metal shoe racks - seamlessly blending the two materials for a modern aesthetic.

In recent years, melamine has become a very popular building material for everything from dishes to custom closets. Melamine is essentially a type of hard plastic resin that is super durable, fire-resistant, and tolerant to wear and tear. When used as a material to build custom closets, melamine resin is the outer layer over high-density fiberboard, which creates a high sheen look that usually comes in black, white or woodgrain. 

The main portion of your custom closet build-out will include shelves, racks, and drawers but there are several additional items that you will want to consider as materials for your new space. Closet rods, baskets, tie racks, mirrors, lighting, and free-standing countertops can all be added into your design to customize your closet even further. Working professionals will have different needs than a retiree versus moms, who will want useful space for their own needs and for their kids. Full-length mirrors are a great addition to any custom closet, in addition to a chair or bench to sit on while lacing up your shoes. Your custom closet won’t consist of just shelves and drawers, so make sure to ponder what will give you the greatest use of your space!

Custom Closets are usually designed with the help of a professional who helps you map out a blueprint of diverse closet space solutions. When choosing the materials with your professional closet designer, make sure to ask about how the material you choose will stand up against the elements, how it will stand the test of time, whether it matches your current aesthetics and how you can build it based on your personal style and budget.