How to Refresh an Existing Closet Without Starting Over
Refreshing an existing closet doesn’t always mean ripping everything out and installing a brand-new closet system. Sometimes paint, new hardware, updated lighting, and a little organization are all it takes to refresh the space.
That was exactly the case with my master closet.
The existing closet system was still functional for me, so there was really no reason to replace it. It just looked tired and in need of serious organization. I decided to work with what we already had and give both closets a much-needed refresh.
And what a difference a few relatively simple updates made!
Refreshing an Existing Closet: Start With What You Have
Before tearing out an older closet system, take a good look at it. Does the layout still work? Is the shelving sturdy? Does it provide the storage you need?If the answer is yes, you may be able to save yourself a lot of time and money by simply updating what’s already there.
Our closets checked all those boxes. It just looked tired and dated and messy…and it still had the boob light!
Yes, You Can Paint an Existing Closet System
One of the biggest changes in this closet came from painting the existing shelving and closet system. The important thing to remember is that prep matters.
Closet systems often have smooth or previously finished surfaces, so you don’t want to simply start brushing paint over them. I cleaned the surfaces thoroughly and properly prepped them so the new finish would adhere and hold up to everyday use. After painting, the same shelving looked brighter, cleaner, and so much more current. Although it’s hard to tell in the photos I used the same wall color on the closet shelves, Agreeable Gray.
If your closet system is still in good condition, painting it can be a great alternative to replacing it.
Fresh Paint on the Walls
While everything was out of the closet, it was also the perfect opportunity to repaint the walls. Fresh wall paint immediately made the entire space feel cleaner. Painting both the walls and the closet system gave the space a much more cohesive look.
It’s one of those updates that doesn’t seem dramatic while you’re doing it, but once everything comes back together, you realize how much of a difference fresh paint makes.
Updating the Hardware
Another small detail that made a noticeable difference was replacing the knobs. Hardware is one of my favorite easy updates because it can instantly make older cabinetry or built-ins feel more current.
It’s also proof that you don’t always need a major renovation to update a room. Sometimes the smallest details have the biggest impact.
New Curtains Softened the Space
Since this closet has a window, I wanted to make that part of the refresh too. I added new curtains, which softened the room and gave it a more finished feel without taking away from the natural light.
After a few months I ended up switching the curtain panels for these light weight linen panels and moved these to my bedroom.
Lighting Was the Finishing Touch
And then came one of my favorite changes: new lighting. Never underestimate what a light fixture can do for a room—even a closet!
At first I went with a bigger hanging light but after living with it for a while, I went with something smaller. The new fixture adds a little personality with the bling and the way the light reflects on the ceiling. Because it is smaller and doesn’t hang down it doesn’t take up so much visual space in my closet.
Before You Replace It, Refresh It
This makeover is such a good reminder to look at what you already have before deciding it needs to be replaced.
We kept the existing closet system and completely changed the feel of the room by:
- Painting the walls and existing closet system
- Adding new knobs
- Hanging new curtains
- Updating the lighting
- Cleaning out and reorganizing the space
None of those changes required starting over, but together they made the closet feel completely refreshed. Sometimes the best makeover isn’t about adding more or buying everything new. It’s about seeing the potential in what’s already there.
And that’s always my favorite kind of project.
