You’ve been browsing photos of dream closets on Pinterest. Have the closet islands been catching your eye? Are you wondering if there is any way you could incorporate a closet island into your space? Here are our best tips for deciding if a closet island is right for you.

Do you have enough space?

The first step is to determine if you have enough space for a closet island. If you can stand in your closet and touch all four walls without moving your feet then you probably don’t have room for a closet island. If you if your closet is tad bit larger than a postage stamp then you may have the room you need. The first step is to decide how large of an island you want in your closet.

One tip is to use paper or tape to mask off the island foot print. Spend a week or so walking around that space and see what you think. Is there still enough room in your closet to move? Should the island be bigger or smaller? Would another location work better. Live with your options before you spend your hard earned dollars on a permanent solution.

Island or Peninsula?

The geography buffs out there know the difference between an island and a peninsula, but for the rest of us here’s a quick cheat sheet. An island has space all the way around, whereas a peninsula is attached on one end and only has space on three sides. Got it? Now while I’ve got you dreaming of a beach vacation, let’s talk closets!

A peninsula gives you a bit more walking space in the closet while still offering the storage solutions of an island. Both have great features and allow you a counter space along with the storage.

The main reason to choose an island over a peninsula is floor space. A peninsula will work better in a smaller closet, but if you have the space you can go all out with a gorgeous island. We think it’s time to make your closet dreams come true!

DIY your own!

If you are a tiny bit handy (we’re talking follow step by step assembly directions kind of handy) then you can DIY your own island. Many furniture items can be used as closet island. Lisa Adams of LA Closet Design shared these tips with the Today Show.

You don’t have to spring for the crazy costs of fully custom built-ins in order to have a perfectly organized space. “Think about flipping cabinets or shelving units on their heads, literally — [they] could make great island pieces in your closet,” Adams says.

One way she suggests getting a closet island for less? An Ikea bookshelf turned on its side, as Adams did for influencer-blogger Chriselle Lim. “Ta-da! You instantly have an island with cubbies,” Adams says. “Islands are functional and beautiful in a closet — to fold and pack while displaying items on the top

Think about the footprint and height you want before you head out shopping. Then look for furniture that fits. A bookshelf on it’s side, a dresser, a bathroom vanity, or kitchen cabinet all have the potential to serve as your island base. You will likely want at least two of whatever you choose so that you can put the furniture pieces back to back. Then all it takes is a top to create your very own closet island.

We won’t desert you!

If you feel like you are all alone on a deserted island trying to make these closet island decisions give us a call! We’ll send in our talented rescue team. Our designers will help you find the perfect island solution for your closet. It’s time to design your happy place. Schedule your free consultation today.