Closet Storage Issues Many Houston Townhomes Struggle With

 

Townhomes have rapidly become a staple across Greater Houston.

While there are advantages to townhome living, there are downsides, too. Many townhomes, new and old, lack functional closet storage. Even some walk-in closets are not designed with this in mind. This can lead to clutter and frustrating daily battles with your closet.

Houstonians struggling with cluttered and dysfunctional closets have turned to SpaceManager Closets for solutions since 1997. Our friendly design consultants have seen it all, and we pride ourselves on creating truly innovative designs that actually improve daily life. 

In this article, we’ll discuss the five most common closet storage issues in Houston townhomes and remedies so you can transform your townhome closets into tidy, functional spaces.

1. Houston Townhome Closets Waste Vertical Storage Space

Because of Houston’s zoning laws and land-use reforms, developers often build tall, narrow townhomes to fit several on a single lot. As a result, many townhome closets are narrow with high ceilings. It’s also common for these closets to only have a basic single-shelf and hanging rod system, which does not take full advantage of storage space.

You can reclaim unused storage space and enhance organization with a floor-based custom closet system or modular closet system.

Floor-based custom closet systems are designed with your exact closet measurements and are fully customizable. They have a streamlined look and sit directly on the ground, making them secure and stable. Extra hanging sections, shelves, and built-in drawers can be added for optimal use of space.

These systems can also be designed with pull-down closet rods for upper hanging sections. Pull-down closet rods make it easy to access high storage areas without a ladder. A pivoting arm gently lowers the hanging rod to a reachable level. 

2. Houston Townhome Closets Are Small and Awkward

While some townhome closets waste vertical storage, others are too small or oddly shaped. When multiple townhomes are built on one lot, closet size and layout can be affected. Narrow closets and corner closets can be tricky to organize and access. Unusual layouts can prevent basic pieces like dressers from being used and make modular closet systems challenging.

You can tackle your closet storage solution on your own, but keep in mind you need to thoroughly measure the space before purchasing supplies or investing in a modular closet system. Otherwise, you could end up spending more time and money correcting mistakes.

Modular closet systems are comprised of individual storage components called modules. Popular DIY modular closets often use IKEA dressers and bookcases. While modular closets offer flexibility and storage at affordable price points, they are prefabricated and often require assembly. This can lead to headaches if a module does not fit or work properly in your closet. It’s crucial to take precise measurements of your closet, including clearance space for doors and drawers, before investing in a modular closet system.

You can always leave this work to the professionals by having a custom closet designed and installed in your home. Custom closets are tailored to your closet’s exact size and storage needs, eliminating issues with awkward spaces. Professional installation also reduces safety risks associated with modular closet systems, like units tipping over or collapsing, which can cause serious injuries and damage your home.

3. Houston Townhomes Need Closet Storage on Every Floor

Going up and down stairs is a fact of life with Houston townhomes. Most townhomes have at least three stories, and many have four or more. Many townhome layouts feature floors with only small closets or no closets at all. A lack of functional storage on every floor is frustrating, especially when hosting guests, hauling laundry upstairs, and more.

Adjustable shelving is an easy way to add functional storage to existing hall, linen, and bedroom closets. They provide the flexibility to store bulky items such as extra bedding and towels. Custom closet systems and many modular closet systems have adjustable shelving options that work in small closets.

If you don’t have a hall or linen closet, a floating or wall-mounted closet system is another option for adding functional storage in bedrooms. Wall-mounted closets, sometimes called floating closet systems, are structures attached to the wall, not resting on the floor, which gives them an open look and allows for flexibility in storing hanging and folded items.

4. Townhome Closets Can’t Handle Houston’s Climate

Waterproofing and leak issues may not sound like a closet problem, but they can be if a closet system’s materials are not equipped to handle Houston’s harsh and unpredictable climate.

A survey report on common Houston home issues from the Kinder Institute at Rice University found that 1 in 7 respondents reported experiencing flooding in their homes since moving in, and half reported water damage unrelated to flooding.

Depending on what your closet system is made of, it may not be able to withstand common water damage issues or Houston’s humidity. If you’re concerned about durability, choose a floor-based custom closet instead of a modular closet system.

Modular closets are typically more affordable because modules are made with lower-quality core materials. The core materials in these systems are lightly compressed, making them vulnerable to the elements. Humidity and moisture can seep in, causing materials to degrade and finishes to peel away. Shelves warp, sag, and collapse under the weight of belongings, while drawers and doors can expand and stick.

​While you can’t change the weather, you can ensure your closet system is made with durable, high-quality materials. Choose a floor-based custom closet system made with industrial-grade thermally fused laminate (T.F.L). This material has a highly compressed pine wood core, which is mixed with non-toxic formaldehyde, and fused with a durable surface layer using heat and pressure. SpaceManager Closets only uses industrial-grade T.F.L. in our custom closet systems because it is extremely durable, safe, and easy to clean. 

5. Houston Townhome Closets Need Built-in Organization

Sometimes, it’s not closet size that’s an issue, it’s a lack of functional storage and organization. Many Houston closets only have a simple shelf and hanging rod combination to store their items. While this combination works, it leaves a lot to be desired in terms of functional storage and organization.

Ready-to-use closet organization accessories are inexpensive, temporary solutions for basic closets in desperate need of organization and functional storage.

Hanging storage shelves

Hanging storage shelves are a great way to maximize folded storage in closets without built-in drawers or additional shelves. Like clothing hangers, these shelf units hang on rods and have sections for folded items. They’re usually made with a canvas material and come in a variety of sizes and colors.

Closet Shelf Dividers

Keep closet shelves clutter-free with shelf dividers. Shelf dividers are designed to slide over shelves to create defined storage sections. Shelf dividers are often used to organize purses, clutches, and evening bags, as well as sweaters, jeans, and more.

Hanging Tie and Belt Racks

Hanging tie and belt racks are another simple but effective accessory. They hang directly on clothing rods and have hooks for belts and ties. Some even rotate 360-degrees for extra accessibility.

These accessories can be purchased online or in-store at home decor retailers. SpaceManager Closet's wide range of closet accessories is available to explore in person at our Houston showroom.

Custom Closets Designers for Houston Townhomes

Now that you know about the five most common closet storage issues in Houston townhomes and solutions for each, it’s time to upgrade your closet’s storage space and organization.

Schedule your free closet design consultation with a SpaceManager Closets expert designer today. Our friendly and knowledgeable designers meet with you to discuss your current closet and measure your space. This information is used to create a custom 3D rendering of your new custom closet, so you’re able to fully envision how your townhome closet can be transformed into a clean, functional space.