Client Stories:
A Lesson in Transforming a Tiny Closet from Style Editor Benjamin Reynaert
client: Ben Reynaert
location: New York City, NY
design consultant: Debra Russo
What He Wanted
Hall closets somehow often lend themselves to becoming unorganized catchalls for everything from off-season wares to cleaning supplies and, of course, tote bags galore. Such was the unfortunate case for domino’s contributing Style Editor Benjamin Reynaert whose New York City apartment — while exceptionally well-appointed — also included an exceptionally overstuffed front hall closet.
Over the years, the tiny 2-by-3-foot space had become a hodgepodge repository for random housewares, styling props, coats, and everything in between.
To regain order and make the most of the space, Ben tapped California Closets New York’s Debra Russo for her expertise.
It was a standard closet with one shelf and a rail — and stuff was just smushed in there.
How we did it
No stranger to tight city spaces, Debra knew exactly how to optimize every inch of the closet so that Ben could finally store, display, and access his mixed array of photoshoot props, as well as coats and accessories.
The two landed on a custom design solution quickly, and before the final installation, Ben applied a bold paint color to the back wall to give his closet a pop of personal style.
This pre-war apartment building had very uneven plaster walls we had to contend with. After measuring the whole space, we decided that the wider shelves at the top would accommodate his larger props. For all of Ben’s canvas bags, I also included a slide-out belt rack for easy access and organization.
final result
Thanks to adjustable shelving, clever bag storage, a grounding paint hue, and Ben’s talented eye, this utilitarian space with flair is now a high-functioning home for props and everyday essentials.
Small but mighty, this teeny hall closet proves the notion that small spaces can pack some pretty big design solutions.
Design Details
Finish:
Classic White wall-mounted system
Metal:
Oil-rubbed Bronze
Additional Accessories:
Pull-out belt rack
Round hanging pole
*Note: product availability may vary by location
Meet the team
Debra Russo
Design Consultant
