The closet set

Stylish walk-ins like the one seen in the movie 'Sex and the City' fit the script for some homeowners

[e-mail]

10 steps to a great walk-in

*Be honest with yourself. How many feet of hanging space do you need? How many purses do you have? Admit it: You're not going to throw out shoes, your skinny jeans and costume-party garb.

* Be honest with your designer. Expect the designer to count those pairs of shoes and boots or ask you to. Prefer angled shoe racks to cubbies? Expect to dress in the room? Unwind there? Say so. The designer needs to make an accurate assessment. And what's the look you're going for?

*Know your price. A professionally designed, fully built-out walk-in closet can cost as much as building out the room for other uses. Prices range from $1,000 for a fairly basic small closet to more than $25,000 for an upper-end room installation. For less costly DIY solutions, start browsing such places as the Container Store or Ikea.

*Plan the lighting. The truest whites, such as halogens, show the truest clothing colors. Locate fixtures toward the center of the space. Illuminate shelves. A chandelier adds elegance.

*Use full-length mirrors. Just like in the store dressing room, three angles of mirrors give you a 360-degree view of yourself. Need to save space? Make the two wing mirrors closet door exteriors.

*Accessorize. Locked jewelry drawers? A safe? Pullout ironing board? Motorized tie, belt or scarf rack? Luggage storage?

*Relax. If you prefer to sit while dressing or donning shoes, or take a while to ponder your clothing choice, or if others will join you there, consider seating. Ideas: an upholstered bench, a plush chair, a chaise longue, a settee.

*Add a countertop. Islands and peninsulas provide a surface for folding, packing or just putting down items, while adding storage below; seating or a step can be included. The surface? Anything that won't snag fibers.

*Flooring counts. This should be one you can easily keep clean. Carpeting and wood are the most popular.

*Treat the windows. Natural light is a bonus, but the sun streaming through windows can damage clothing; besides, don't give your neighbors a cheap thrill. Add drapes, curtains, shutters or shades.

[Andrea F. Siegel]