The Room In Your House That Needs An Island (& It's Not The Kitchen)

Even if you are lucky enough to have a massive walk-in closet or dedicated wardrobe room, you may find that you still wish you had just a little extra storage. Your closet may be loaded to the gills for one of two reasons: perhaps you just love clothes and have countless garments, or maybe you have to share the valuable space with others. Whatever the case may be, if you have a large closet, you may be overlooking a piece that can add both beauty and storage to your space. While most often used in kitchens to provide counter space and storage, a central island, even a small one, can make your closet or wardrobe space more functional and efficient.  

An island can help turn your ordinary closet into your dream dressing room. By adding this piece of furniture, the space will instantly look more luxe and intentional, especially if you look at the piece as a part of the décor. This means making great choices when choosing the wood finish, hardware, and beautiful counter surfaces — amazing options include marble or richly-grained wood. The island also provides a spot for storing smaller items on top or doing tasks like organizing and folding and a place to set down your coffee as you choose your outfit for the day. 

Adding an island to your joyfully organized walk-in closet may be easier than you think, as there are many premade islands, DIY projects, and options for getting custom cabinetry done to fit the space. A fully custom solution can give you a chance to more specifically choose the kind of storage you need, be it cabinets, shallow or deeper drawers, bins, baskets, or racks for items like shoes and handbags underneath the counter. A custom piece will also allow you to tailor the size specifically to your space, so it doesn't take up too much room. Keep in mind that you should leave enough room on all sides of the island so that you can completely walk around it.

Other great additions to an island for ultimate storage and organization in your walk-in closet include a pull out drying rack, a fold out ironing board, or hooks along the side for hanging items like scarves, hats, or handbags. You can even add seating with cute stools or ottomans that can be tucked underneath when not in use. Underneath also may be a great spot to stash your laundry hampers out of sight. For an extra glam touch, add a table top mirror and use the island as a place to store and apply makeup if you don't have a sit down vanity. 

If you plan to DIY your creation of an island for your closet, there are some great approaches that start off with existing pieces. A dresser or antique cabinet can make a great island, particularly in a slender rectangular room, since it is already formatted with drawers or doors. For a great hack, place two inexpensive dressers back-to-back and build a countertop that fits over both for a wider piece. Or, add extra shelves between for even more storage. If you are looking for a budget-friendly source of wood to build an island, try making one out of wooden pallets, which can grant a chic rustic, industrial, or boho look to your closet.

Like in a small kitchen, you can also create an island on wheels, which may be great when you want to move it around the space or push it aside for cleaning. You can even use a wide, wheeled cart as an island in your closet and take advantage of the shelves underneath for storage. Another alternative solution is to use a round storage ottoman in the center of your closet. This will provide you with storage space inside while also making it easier to put on and take off your shoes.