Broom closet vs. cabinet

11 years ago

I have an empty space that's approximately 50"w x 16"d x 9'h that I would like to enclose and use for a broom closet. My original thought was to frame it in as a standard closet space so that the vacuum and carpet cleaner could be easily rolled into the closet on the existing tile floor.

However, I'm having second thoughts about the "lost" space above the shelf, and wonder if a built-in cabinet would be a better choice, since I could add shelving almost to the ceiling. The down side is that a cabinet would have a raised floor and toe kick. I would have to lift my vacuum and heavy carpet cleaner in and out of it.

I am not a professional or a builder, so am looking for opinions/feedback on the best option for my space based on your personal experience.

Sort by:Oldest

Comments (5)

Sigrid
11 years ago
I don't see how the space above the shelf makes any difference. I'm not a builder either, but I think the issue is framing the door, which is an issue a carpenter can answer.
countbla
11 years ago
Does the space feel like it's part of the kitchen or part of, say, the hallway? Just thinking how the type of construction will make it relate or stick out. A kitchen style cabinet may give you more customizable options but closet doors doesn't stop you from using some sort of organizer/shelving system inside, although high shelving is awkward/limited by height of doors. As far as the heavy carpet cleaning machine, how often do you actually use it?
Related Professionals
Jacksonville Interior Designers & Decorators · Bowling Green Interior Designers & Decorators · Tupelo Interior Designers & Decorators · Baltimore Architects & Building Designers · Dayton Architects & Building Designers · Waterloo Architects & Building Designers · Durango Architects & Building Designers · Albuquerque Architects & Building Designers · North Platte Architects & Building Designers · Rolla Kitchen & Bathroom Designers · Fort Dodge Kitchen & Bathroom Designers · Fall River Kitchen & Bathroom Designers · Binghamton Kitchen & Bathroom Designers · Fort Collins Kitchen & Bathroom Designers · Gillette Kitchen & Bathroom Designers
User
11 years ago
I think Countbia has a point, that sometimes we keep items that we aren't actually using. You may find that hiring a carpet cleaning service occasionally is a better option than keeping a machine. I have a broom closet for my vacuum and cleaning supplies, and would not trade it for a cabinet of any sort.
Melissa Raber
Original Author
11 years ago
The space is actually a niche in the powder room. The original floor plan was for a stall shower, but we decided it wouldn't really get much use. A bigger cleaning closet made much more sense, since my existing one is barely wide enough for the vacuum. The floor is already tiled, and that's why I thought of simply enclosing with drywall and adding a door. But I definitely want to maximize the storage space.

I do use my carpet cleaner often enough to justify finding viable storage space for it. It's been sitting in the corner of the office for nearly 4 years, and it's an eyesore.

Thank you all for your feedback; it's much appreciated!!
emilyam819
11 years ago
Then I would do a closet.