Closet design is about more than just storage. Creating a personalized, organized space streamlines your routine and adds an extra glimmer to your day. Not sure where to start? We spoke with Samantha Stein of Samantha Stein Interiors to hear her expert advice on designing for both style and function. From the art of closet lighting to customizing spaces for individual needs, get her top tips for creating interiors that are as practical as they are beautiful.
Nashville Lifestyles: Tell us a little more about your brand and personal aesthetic.
Samantha Stein: I am a residential interior designer here in Nashville. My focus is on designing classic interiors for the modern family. It is important to me that my design work is timeless and able to live on for decades to come while still feeling current. I guess you could call it updated traditional. I am also very focused on making sure each space is functional and serves each individual client’s needs.
NL: Walk us through the power of thoughtful lighting in closet design. How does it elevate the space?
SS: Lighting can drastically impact how functional a closet is. It is the difference between seeing what you have and not. I love the soft ambiance it gives to your space as well. I always like to do decorative lighting on the ceiling, this would be like the jewelry of the space, with more functional LED strips within the framing of the closet built-ins. T he strip lighting provides that extra bit of luxury and visibility. I think it is so important to the overall design of any closet because it serves a functional purpose.
NL: What are some key aspects to consider when designing a closet? How do you tailor closets to different individuals?
SS: When designing a closet there are so many things to consider. Ensuring you have enough hanging space, a mix of open and closed storage, adding valet rods, a full length mirror, jewelry and sunglass drawers, a charging station, his side/her side, if there’s enough room we love to add an island, if not then a set down nook is great, I love to build in hampers, and a place to store your luggage. Those are the big ones! We tailor it for individuals based on how they dress and what their needs are. Sometimes we have clients who need more athleisure storage than hanging, so we accommodate that. Some clients want neutral, others want a fun, colorful closet, so we play with paint, wallpaper, lighting, etc. Some people have hat collections, tie collections, bag collections, so all of that needs to be considered and accommodated through different storage techniques.
NL: Can you share some of your personal tips with us?
SS: Stay organized. If you’re able to do that, getting dressed will be fun and not hard every morning. And the best way to stay organized is to make sure you have a spot for everything. Have fun with it! Your closet is your personal space that not many people will go in. It’s a great place to experiment with color, pattern, and just generally be a bit playful.