Closet Systems Installation, Custom Closet Design, Luxury Walk-in Closet Design, Built-in Storage Solutions, Wardrobe Remodel in Boulder Colorado
Upgrade Your Closet
Senior Closet Designer Elizabeth Allen Shares her Secrets
As my clients have invested in curating high-quality wardrobes, the natural next step has been rethinking how to display their clothes in a way that maximizes their "fashion real estate." Optimizing closet space not only streamlines their daily dressing routine but also ensures they’re making the most of their investment. A well-designed closet becomes a functional sanctuary, where every piece has a place, and getting dressed feels effortless and joyful.
Because many clients have been asking me for closet designer recommendations in the Boulder Colorado area, I made it my mission to find the best. I prioritize quality and exceptional customer service, so I wanted someone whose work ethic aligned with mine. That’s when I found Elizabeth Allen, a closet and built-in storage solutions designer with a true passion for transforming spaces.
I asked her to share her secrets and the story behind her career and I’m excited to introduce her to you, in five questions.
Elizabeth Allen, senior designer at Closet Factory
1. Can you tell us about yourself and what inspired you to start designing closets?
I can remember as a child imagining my own perfect cozy home with elaborate built-ins. I think it was inspired by the movie Overboard when he made the spinning shoe closet on the boat…
When my youngest daughter went to school, I got a job at a custom furniture store and loved it so much I decided to go to school to become an interior designer. I quickly found that the best career path for a mom who needs to make her own schedule in this field, is custom cabinetry with a company that allows designers to work from home.
It’s really a matter of me choosing a “right fit” job for my family and passions. I’m very blessed that it came together.
2. How should clients prepare for a closet upgrade?
What most people don’t realize is a custom closet gives you more storage space because we utilize the full height of the wall. So, while some people think they need to pare down their belongings before the project, I find that many are more motivated to do it after the project.
We don’t require any preparation. I come into the closet, inventory shoes, hanging, folded, drawers, hampers needed etc…
3. What are some common mistakes people make when organizing their closets, and how can they avoid them?
The number one thing I see in closets that makes me sad is the big gap above and below hanging being completely unused. Most builders put in one rod and it wastes ¾ of the closet space.
The second cringe is when I see hanging going both directions from a corner. Two feet of clothes are obscured behind other clothes. I always put a shoe rack 12” deep next to perpendicular hanging if I can so that people can see their clothes.
4. Can you share any tips for maximizing small closet spaces?
Maximize vertically. If you have a tall closet, put a step ladder in there and let me build high.
This ties back into common mistakes. I tend to spend more time on a small closet than a large one as I calculate what needs to fit into it and how to do that without sacrificing function.
5. What makes your closet design services different and unique compared to others in the industry?
I like to tell people they’re kinda lucky they got me because I lay in bed at night imagining their closet and any changes I could make to the current design… and then I get up the next morning and make those changes. I love to learn, and I love to teach, so by the end of a project most of my clients know the why of every detail and they almost always make a valuable contribution that I learn from.
A professional edge I have is my interior design degree. While some people might think it’s overkill to get a degree to design cabinetry, I don’t. I’m able to design home bars with built-in appliances and I know the design standards for kitchens and baths which I often use to guide me with laundry rooms and bars. I’m able to use design training to perceive things like obstructions and crown molding as things to be integrated perfectly into my design which gives people very satisfying details when it’s done.
Another strength I offer is my customer service background. When I was young I worked for Sears and WorldCom. Both companies were considered top tier customer service focused companies in their industries. The training I received serves me well every day. I make sure my clients are treated well.
Get in touch with Elizabeth...
Be sure to mention my name, Helene from Wardrobe Nerd, for A+ customer care, and rest assured, you’ll be in expert hands as you take your closet to the next level!
email: elizabeth.allen@closetfactory-colorado.com
Instagram: @closet_factory_elizabeth
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Your Wardrobe Nerd
Helene Cardon moved to the US from France over 10 years ago and lives near Boulder, Colorado. She is a body positive personal stylist & wardrobe consultant with a passion for slow fashion. Read about her style journey
She offers Wardrobe Edit Sessions and Sustainable Shopping Sessions to the women of the Boulder Area who want to refine their fashion sense, find new ways to pair their existing clothes, and shop intentionally - with a plan.