2026 Closet Design Trends
We sat down with a few Inspired Closets design experts to talk through closet design trends for 2026, what they see coming, and what homeowners are asking for. Read everything they had to say.
What closet trends do you expect to see in 2026?
“More than ever, the custom closet is evolving from pure utility to a space that reflects lifestyle, not just wardrobe, no matter the closet size. What was once considered a luxury for a select few has now become an expectation for nearly every homeowner. People are investing in these spaces because they use them every day and they want them to feel just as intentional, beautiful, and functional as the rest of their home.”
-Michael Danes, Inspired Closets Seattle
Even though Inspired Closets has been in the business of custom closets for more than 35 years, we’re now seeing customization go from an up-and-coming trend to a closet industry standard. Once homeowners learn about the longevity of a storage space designed with them in mind, and how it can save time, lessen stress, and actually prevent them from spending more money in the long run, the benefits of choosing a custom closet are hard to ignore.
But customizing a space isn’t enough; as custom closets grow in popularity, homeowner expectations are also getting higher (as they should!). People don’t just expect a space that’s tailored specifically to them, they also expect high-quality materials, stunning design, and an easy, stress-free process that gets them to the final outcome.
What does “personalized closet design” mean in 2026?
“In 2026, personalized closet design means creating a custom, tech-enhanced closet that adapts to the client’s lifestyle using tailored layouts built around how they actually live, dress, and use their space. This process is elevated by tools like our proprietary 3D design software tool, Studio, which generates precise, lifelike plans based on the client’s needs, along with the Envision goggles that let clients step inside their future closet in augmented reality to see scale, finishes, and layout changes before anything is built.”
– Beth Roel, Inspired Closets Southwest Florida
In the new year, closet personalization means so much more than a hand-sketched design. At Inspired Closets, we take personalization to the nth degree with numerous in-depth conversations (that are actually a two-way street, our designers genuinely listen to what you need so we get things just right) and cutting-edge technology that allows us to confirm every single decision, nook, and cranny with our clients.
How are general 2026 interior design trends impacting closets?
“In the city, Murphy beds are highly sought after to optimize space, small bedrooms are converted to extra storage, and custom entertainment centers provide a tailored solution that maximizes the use of small spaces. In the suburbs, garages are the new frontier for organizing. Clients love sliding cabinet doors and having a home for their seasonal items.”
– Amanda Lake, Lis Ritz, and Lisa Rodriguez, Inspired Closets Chicago
No matter the location or the size of the home, from the minute our clients step inside to the moment they head out the door, maximizing every inch of usable storage and living space is crucial. We see this growing expectation not only as a trend, but as a need in all areas of the home, especially in people’s closets.
Which closet trends from the past few years continue to be popular?
“Quality, sustainability, and durability are no longer niche—they’re expected. The closet has become just as important and design-driven as a kitchen remodel. Homeowners expect that same level of finish, performance, and detail because they’re spending so much time in these spaces and they want them to inspire the same pride and enjoyment every day.”
– Michael Danes, Inspired Closets Seattle
Whether homeowners are buying or building, closets are no longer a last-minute thought. And they haven’t been for a while. Storage–especially primary closet space–is something people are paying close attention to while touring homes, or planning for much earlier in the new build process. More and more homeowners recognize the immediate emotional and logistical value of a closet that actually works for them, along with the long-term financial impact, thus making customization a trend that carries over from year to year.
Are there any unexpected color palettes taking over closet design this year?
“Two-tone designs are gaining serious momentum, especially in closets. Pairing a soft neutral with a bold accent or mixing warm wood textures with painted fronts adds visual depth without overwhelming the space. It’s an easy way to introduce personality while keeping the overall aesthetic sophisticated.”
– Nancy Dengler, Inspired Closets Southwest Florida
“Clients are getting creative with two-tone colors. Morning Mist/Arctic White, Morning Mist/Charcoal, and Fort/Charcoal are some of the top choices.”
– Amanda Lake, Lis Ritz, and Lisa Rodriguez, Inspired Closets Chicago
While a classic white closet will always be popular, for 2026 closet design trends, we’re seeing clients wanting to step out of their neutral comfort zones with color and contrasting, natural tones. You can easily add depth and interest to white closet design with an additional darker shade, or go bold with all color. Whatever your style is, a closet design expert will help you choose the best colors for your space and your vibe.
Which custom closet materials are trending?
“We’re seeing stronger demand for warmer, natural finishes, like subtle woodgrains, flat satin surfaces, and soft-metal hardware. Mixed-metal details and layered textures bring a richer, more curated feel.”
– Michael Danes, Inspired Closets Seattle
The trending desire for a natural design aesthetic extends beyond closet color and into the finishing touches, like knobs, drawer pulls, hooks, and light fixtures. Mixing materials creates an earthy, cozy vibe that we’re seeing across 2026 interior design trends, and it also creates intrigue and design diversity that homeowners are gravitating towards.
What are eco-friendly choices every homeowner should know about?
“Our products last the test of time. We design spaces not only for today, but to change and evolve as lifestyles change. This is why we select the highest-quality materials that enable flexibility and adaptability for modification over time (e.g., adding shelves, rods, drawers, etc.). Inspired Closets offers timeless colors that outlast fads, keeping our materials out of landfills.”
– Amanda Lake, Lis Ritz, and Lisa Rodriguez, Inspired Closets Chicago
When considering a closet remodel, opting for safe, long-lasting, eco-friendly materials is top of mind for many homeowners. However, an often overlooked insight into sustainability is the benefit of having a closet that’s designed correctly the first time with flexible features so you don’t have to spend more money and use more product replacing things down the road. Working with a closet design expert ensures your design is current, but it will also hold up as interior design trends change over the years.
Which closet design features are considered “non-negotiable” in 2026?
“Purposeful zoning: creating dedicated areas for hanging, folded items, shoes, accessories, displays, and even discreet storage. From there, we layer in features that support a client’s real daily flow—whether that’s a vanity for getting ready, a defined dressing nook, a tucked-away workspace for quick tasks, or built-in solutions for steaming and ironing right where they’re needed.”
– Nancy Dengler, Inspired Closets Southwest Florida
We’re seeing more homeowners request closets that serve the exact purposes they need them to. Custom is getting even more personalized and convenient, even if the functionality feels out of the box (i.e., a closet with a small dedicated work-from-home space).
Another popular 2026 closet design trend is the desire for “discreet” or hidden storage. Think benches with storage inside, necklace hooks and belt racks that mount flush to the side of a cabinet and slide away when not in use, and even pull-out hampers hidden behind cabinet doors. Homeowners want more organization options and usable space, they just don’t always want it to be on full display.
What’s coming next for the future of tech in closet design?
“I love sharing Envision because it lets clients step inside a full-scale version of their future closet, making design decisions both simple and exciting. It builds confidence and trust by allowing them to clearly see the spacing, functionality, and overall feel of the space. It also helps me communicate ideas more quickly and prevents misunderstandings throughout the design process. In the end, it creates a seamless experience that results in a final design the customer is truly excited about.”
– Beth Roel, Inspired Closets Southwest Florida
Your custom closet should make your life easier, and so should the process you take to get there. Our proprietary 3D and AR design software allow us to be exact with every design decision, implementation, and final installation. And, bringing designs to life so clients can quite literally walk through and experience their spaces before they commit to buying makes the process considerably less stressful for homeowners and builders alike.
