How to Effortlessly Simplify Your Life in Style

Rip & Tan: Walk us through the planning and execution of this custom closet. Were there any challenges in the process?

Missy Almester: When planning and designing custom closet systems for the Ranch, I ensured the designs would be incredibly versatile to accommodate evolving lifestyle needs. I wanted to keep the overall aesthetic very clean with crisp lines and complementary materials. The most challenging space was the “multifunctional” electrical closet because we had to navigate many wall obstructions and be exact and strategic with shelf placement.

Rip & Tan: How does the primary closet, in function or aesthetic, draw from the rest of the Ranch? Do you typically consider the entire home in your designs?

Missy Almester: I always consider the rest of the home when designing. I believe that having a cohesive design vision and story is important and I wanted to honor the style and sensibility that the Jenni Kayne brand represents. At the end of the day, striving for uniformity and continuity throughout the home will enrich the overall space with a sense of calming simplicity.

Rip & Tan: What comes first when conceptualizing a custom closet for a new client? How do individual personalities come into play?

Missy Almester: When conceptualizing a new custom closet system for a client the most important tangible detail is his or her inventory. A client’s belongings set the stage—they provide information on a client’s needs and lifestyle, and ultimately, inspire the closet’s unique design and functionality.

One important first step during the design process is to do a full inventory count of a client’s current pieces. I talk to my clients and really listen to their needs. This helps me understand their vision and advise on the inventory we need to address. I always value the client’s perspective because everyone has a different take on what they want their closet to look like and how they want it to function. Having this transparent conversation is an excellent foundation before our design process begins.

Next, the fun really begins. Incorporating design ideas that reflect a client’s style and personality is what makes a custom space come to life. Choosing from a variety of textured materials, metals, and glass is exciting and I really enjoy incorporating lighting when possible to showcase a client’s favorite handbag collection, shoes, or even artwork!

Rip & Tan: What are the non-negotiables for a truly functional closet?

Missy Almester: For a truly functional closet, adjustability is key. Having the ability to shuffle items up and down with adjustable rods and shelves is important when modifying your wardrobe season to season.

There is nothing worse than purchasing a pair of knee-high boots and then not having the height needed to store them properly with a boot horn.

Also, I recommend keeping your overall custom closet system height slightly lower, which leaves room up top to store items in coordinating bins with lids. We offer a range of organizational accessories in a variety of textured fabrics and vegan leathers that match any of the finishes.

Rip & Tan: What tips do you have for those trying to make the most out of a small closet space? Or the most of a small budget?

Missy Almester: I recommend maximizing every inch of your closet when dealing with a small space. Space planning is incredibly important as well as donating items you no longer use. Keeping your system light in finish will give it a more open, serene look while making it look larger. When working with a small budget consider the use of open shelves as opposed to drawers. Invest in some coordinating bins for storage and place them neatly on an adjustable shelf.

Rip & Tan: The principle of your work is bettering lives through well-designed closets. How should the perfect closet make someone feel?

Missy Almester: The perfect functional closet should make someone feel enlightened, organized, and happy. Closets can be vulnerable spaces for people and having them organized provides an emotional balance and sense of calm that sets a positive tone for the start, and end, of any day.

Rip & Tan: What are common mistakes people make in their closets? How can they be remedied?

Missy Almester: Poor space planning without taking personal inventory into account can result in not providing enough of this or too much of that.  Additionally, it’s very important to measure the length of a client’s clothing to make sure it fits without hitting the shelf below.

A woman who is 5’2” and a man who is 6’4” won’t have the same length (top of hanger to bottom of clothing). In other words, if you placed her clothing at the same height as his she wouldn’t be able to access her clothing conveniently. There has to be a thoughtful strategy when planning a closet design.