An Execution of Function and Beauty

This being Closet Factory’s ninth involvement with The New American Home, and having worked together on many other jobs, Kate knew that Sue and her team at Closet Factory would be able to accurately translate her design concepts and get the job done properly and on time. The New American Home is the official show home that is presented each year at the International Builders’ Show. The concept is to present the most significant advancements in home building to industry professionals from around the world. This year, the homesite that was selected was at Bella Colina in Monteverde, an upscale, Tuscan-themed country club community on Lake Apopka. Sue does enjoy creating these exquisite closets and other storage spaces for show homes, despite the pressure of a deadline and working in less than ideal conditions. One of the many challenges Closet Factory faced during this job was being able to get materials and installers to the space for installation. It’s a large property in a natural lake setting on unfinished terrain, so getting to the job site was a challenge, but there was a collaborative effort working in tandem with other trades. “Yes, it’s challenging and exciting, but it’s also very rewarding.” she continued, “Everyone’s got a different take on the space you are given to work with.” Within the parameters of the design concept, Sue and her team at Closet Factory were able to spread their wings and build closets that displayed some innovative ideas. In two of the closets, for example, instead of the more traditional panel support system, they chose a concealed floating system that’s ideal for small contained spaces. The shelves and drawers appear to be suspended, giving a more vertical and open look to the space, and creating a great amount of adjustability. For these closets, Sue chose a textured melamine surface to keep it feeling contemporary and spacious. The his and hers master closets are mirror-images of each other, although his closet is a bit larger, so the washer, dryer and ironing station were placed there. His closet also boasts a shirt and tie wall which displays the clothing like an upscale men’s shop. Both closets feature filtered bridge lighting that gives a clean, gentle wash of light to the clothing, eliminating shadows and the “spotlight” effect that can throw off color perception. Sue selected a high gloss linen texture mixed with soft metal tones and white panels for the master closets. These colors and textures are carried throughout the master bedroom and bath, creating a whole incorporated suite. Sue believes in organizing closets in task oriented movements. She places all workwear in one section, all evening wear in another. Top to bottom in each section you have what you need for that day: purses, workwear, shoes and drawers with accessories. In the Bella Colina home she installed drawer cases that have pull-out trays and glass tops like a jewelry store counter, making it easy to find the right jewelry and sunglasses to complete each outfit. Function and organization, high-grade materials, beautiful design and great workmanship are the hallmarks of Closet Factory. To learn more, visit their website at closetfactory.com or call (813) 200-4399.