Transform a spare bedroom into a dressing room to die for

You don't have to be the proverbial clotheshorse to wish for more closet space. If you have an extra bedroom, why not fulfill the fantasy as you endow the space with some real functional qualities.

Even a tiny 10-foot-by-10-foot bedroom, tight for traditional sleeping quarters, converts generously into a closet. Compared to the typical single closet that might be 2 feet by 6 feet at the most, such a room offers much more than mere clothes-hanging space.

The closet in the photo shown here is whimsically over the top but in a useful, comfortable way. In any bedroom conversion, one issue to consider is controlling outside light. Here, a simple rolling blackout shade is combined with see-through Roman shades that create an ethereal feel in the room and demonstrate how a single element can create a sense of drama. Suddenly this plain space seems elegant and glamorous.

Introducing a plush, camel-back sofa with traditional nailheads and plump velvet throw pillows says "softness" with panache. Of course, the sofa isn't really necessary. A slipper chair or the leather ottoman by itself would be enough seating for the space.

Adding a telephone in the closet allows you to transform it into more of a getaway destination where you can stay for a while and read with your feet propped up on a silk pillow. On a rainy Saturday you and your hot cup of tea might sit there organizing photographs.

A wall-mounted TV set or a music system might encourage you to fold laundry in the space. Maybe you would iron in this room if there were a movie to watch.

This space was tailored by removing the sliding closet doors. Color-coordinated storage boxes are available from many sources, from bed and bath retailers to storage companies via catalog sales. Choose multiple colors for such boxes. You can match or contrast clothes hanger colors, too.

One classic tip from closet organizers is to group your clothing by color: Hang all of your black, brown, blue or peach in bunches. It's a very simple idea, and when you need to locate a certain top it speeds the process. Plus, this trick gives your closet a very ordered look.

It's possible to hire a closet organizer for specialized storage, but if you're on a budget or don't want to invest that much in a rented apartment, there are other clever ways to arrange your new closet room. Shoes or sweaters can be organized on regular bookshelves. Buy a low 30-inch-high or narrow 60- or 72-inch-high bookcase. Add style by selecting a more traditional vintage shelving unit.

Hooks are a great way to hang robes, workout clothes, raincoats or nighties. Select something with some punch, such as a hand-forged metal hook or an antique Victorian bracket. Plenty of reproduction items are on the market, too.

Purchase hat boxes at discount retailers. These provide a romantic way to store everything from hats to small bags or belts and scarves.

While this example is very feminine, different choices could turn it into a more masculine place. For instance, you could use 2-inch stained wood blinds at the windows or wood shutters. The walls might be painted a richer tone.

Maybe the sofa could be switched to a leather recliner or a wingback chair and ottoman with a mannish feel. An area rug would add color and pattern and feel great underfoot, as well.