Join Our Team

Call Us Today – (302) 537-4811

Let's Get Started

home organization

The Return of the Rec Room: Why the Ultimate “Playroom for All Ages” Is Making a Comeback

rec room with pool table and library

The Return of the Rec Room: Why the Ultimate “Playroom for All Ages” Is Making a Comeback

The bonus room is back, and it is getting a serious upgrade. Once called the rec room or rumpus room, this flexible, often-overlooked space is quickly becoming one of the most valuable rooms in the home. Today’s homeowners are reimagining these spaces into versatile, multi-functional retreats that reflect how we actually live, work, and play.

A Space That Adapts to Every Stage of Life

What was once a casual basement or spare room is now being transformed into a space that adapts and evolves with the household. For families with young children, a bonus room can become a safe, creative playroom designed to grow as they do. It might begin as a soft, toy-filled space for toddlers, then evolve into a homework and reading zone for school-aged kids, and eventually become a media or hangout room for teens.

For adults, it is becoming a highly personalized retreat. Some are turning bonus rooms into hobby studios complete with built-in storage for art supplies, music equipment, or crafting essentials. Others are designing home theaters, gaming lounges, or yoga and meditation spaces that offer a place to recharge, unwind, and enjoy time together.

bonus room office
craft room and library study areaa

Multi-Purpose by Design

One of the most exciting aspects of the modern rec room revival is its flexibility. With thoughtful design and custom cabinetry, the same space can serve multiple purposes without feeling cluttered or chaotic. Built-in shelving keeps games and books organized, hidden storage conceals toys and hobby materials, and versatile furniture makes it easy to transition from kids’ playtime to grown-up gatherings in minutes.

When extra sleeping space is needed, the rec room can also convert into a comfortable guest suite. A built-in Murphy bed or pull-out sofa, paired with custom cabinetry for linens and essentials, means overnight guests feel welcome without sacrificing everyday functionality.

Designing for Joy and Connection

Ultimately, the resurgence of the rumpus room is about creating a space that brings people together. It is about carving out a place where creativity, play, and relaxation coexist, whether that means hosting game night, practicing yoga, building Lego towers with toddlers, or curling up with a good book.

At Behind Closed Doors Custom Closets & Cabinetry | A Division of Artisan Interiors Group, we specialize in designing multi-purpose spaces that are as beautiful as they are functional. Our team of designers and artisans creates custom cabinetry, built-ins, and storage solutions that make every inch of your home work harder and look better, including those often-overlooked bonus rooms.

From flexible family playrooms to adult hideaways and everything in between, today’s rec rooms are no longer an afterthought. They are becoming the heart of the home, places for hobbies, connection, creativity, and lasting memories

Work with a Designer

Upgrade to A Boutique Closet

From Spare Room to Showroom: How DelMarVa Homeowners Are Creating Luxury Walk-In Closets at Home

Dreaming of a Boutique Closet? You’re Not Alone.

More and more Delaware homeowners are transforming underused spaces into luxury walk-in closets, complete with display shelving, vanity stations, built-in drawers, and even island storage. What was once a trend in high-end homes is now an attainable upgrade for everyday living.

At Behind Closed Doors Custom Closets & Cabinetry, we specialize in room-to-closet conversions that blend elegance with function without sacrificing the soul of your home.

master closet with island and under window cabinets

Why Convert a Room into a Walk-In Closet?

✅ Maximize Space You Already Own
That guest room that only gets used twice a year? Or the office no one uses since the laptop moved to the kitchen counter? These spaces are prime real estate for a personalized, spacious closet.

✅ Add Everyday Luxury to Your Routine
Imagine walking into a space designed just for your wardrobe, shoes, bags, and accessories—with built-in lighting, full-length mirrors, and soft-close drawers. It’s not just beautiful—it’s functional luxury.

✅ Boost Home Value & Appeal
According to Zillow, custom closets—especially spacious, walk-in ones—are on the wish lists of modern homebuyers. A thoughtfully designed boutique closet can enhance resale appeal without the cost of a full room remodel.

Features Delaware Homeowners Are Loving

Display Cabinets & Glass Doors
Showcase designer bags, shoes, or jewelry while keeping everything dust-free.

Built-In Seating & Vanity Stations
Turn your closet into a personal retreat, not just a storage space.

Hidden Storage & Soft-Close Drawers
Tidy everything behind closed doors with custom cabinetry built from real wood—never fake laminate or MDF.

 Lighting That Works and Wows
We integrate LED lighting so you can actually see your clothing—and enjoy the mood it creates.

Tailored Layouts
Unlike national brands with modular constraints, we design around you. Sloped ceilings, tight angles, and tricky alcoves are no problem for our local craftspeople.

Why Delaware Homeowners Choose Behind Closed Doors

  • Real Wood. Real Customization.
    We don’t build from pre-set kits. Every closet is made to order with premium materials and craftsmanship.
  • Local Expertise, Not a Franchise Script
    We’re proud to serve Delaware and Eastern Maryland, with a team that lives here and understands your home styles and space constraints.
  • Competitive Pricing Without the Frills
    National brands often mark up their prices for name recognition. We deliver high-end results without inflated costs.

Start Your Walk-In Closet Transformation

Whether you’re dreaming of a full dressing room, a his-and-hers walk-in closet, or a converted spare room, Behind Closed Doors is here to bring your vision to life—with unmatched craftsmanship and local care.

Schedule a free consultation and let’s design the boutique closet you deserve.

📍 Serving: Rehoboth Beach • Lewes • Annapolis • Bethany Beach and beyond
🛠 Custom Closets • Dressing Rooms • Wall Beds • Cabinetry • Garages • Home Offices

How to Design Your Dream Closet: A Step-by-Step Guide

design dream closet graphic

At Behind Closed Doors Custom Closets & Cabinetry, we believe your closet should be more than just storage space. It should reflect your lifestyle, support your daily routines, and bring order to your space in a way that feels effortless and beautifully designed. Whether you’re envisioning a luxurious walk-in or a space-saving reach-in system, our process is designed to deliver fully customized solutions that seamlessly blend function with style.

Here’s how we transform your vision into a well-organized reality:

1. Personalized Consultation

Every project starts with a conversation. During your free in-home consultation, our expert design team will:

  • Evaluate your space and take detailed measurements
  • Learn about your wardrobe, habits, and what’s not working with your current setup
  • Share ideas and inspiration that align with your lifestyle and design preferences

This collaborative approach ensures your closet works seamlessly with how you live every day.

closet reach in with walk through to bedroom

2. Interactive 3D Closet Design

Once we understand your needs, we bring your vision to life using advanced 3D design software. This allows you to:

  • Visualize your space in detail before construction begins
  • Experiment with layouts, finishes, and features in real time
  • Feel confident about every design decision before moving forward

Your dream closet becomes something you can see, explore, and fine-tune with ease.

3. Exceptional Materials and Local Craftsmanship

Our materials are selected with care and built to last. Choose from a wide range of high-quality laminate options for sleek, modern looks, or elevate your space with real wood like white oak, walnut, cherry, or birch. These natural hardwoods bring character, durability, and warmth to any space.

All of our cabinetry is crafted locally by skilled artisans who take pride in precision and detail. Whether you prefer the contemporary appeal of clean finishes or the timeless charm of natural wood grain, we’ll build a closet system that suits your taste and endures daily use.

dream closet design shoe storage

4. Seamless, Professional Installation

Once your design is finalized, our expert installers bring it to life with:

  • Clean, respectful work in your home
  • Timely and efficient installation
  • A thorough final walkthrough to ensure everything meets your expectations

We handle every detail so you can enjoy a smooth, stress-free experience from start to finish.

5. Ongoing Support and Flexibility

Our relationship doesn’t end after installation. As your lifestyle changes, your closet can evolve too. We offer:

  • Modifications or expansions for growing wardrobes
  • New accessories or reconfigurations as your needs shift
  • Ongoing service and support from a team that knows your space

We’re here to make sure your closet continues to serve you well for years to come.

full wall wardrobe

Why Homeowners Choose Behind Closed Doors

✔ Fully custom designs built around your space and lifestyle
✔ Premium materials including real hardwoods and quality laminate
✔ Locally manufactured cabinetry crafted by skilled artisans
✔ Experienced team of designers, project managers, and installers
✔ Full-service process from concept to completion

Ready to Get Started?

Let’s create a closet that works beautifully and looks even better. Book your free consultation today and take the first step toward a more organized, personalized home.

consult with a designer

Maximize Your Garage as a Flex Space

Granite Workbench Stainless Counter Grey Slatwall with TV Smoke Floor Arcadia
Pewter Cabinets Yoga Studio with Marble Countertops

Maximize Your Garage as a Flex Space

When you think of a garage, storing your car is probably the first thing that comes to mind. However, with a little creativity and the right custom storage solutions, your garage can become a multi-functional flex space that serves various needs throughout the year. Whether you need a gym, play area, storage for sports gear, or even a second parking spot, a full garage makeover will help you reclaim and optimize this valuable square footage.

Covered Play Area for the Kids

If you have children, you know how quickly toys and playtime can take over your home. One brilliant way to use your garage is by turning it into a covered play area. During colder months or rainy days, the garage can be the perfect spot for your kids to play, ride bikes, or even have a safe space for indoor sports activities. Install flexible storage solutions like cabinets, shelves, and bins to easily organize toys, art supplies, and outdoor gear, keeping the play area clean and clutter-free when not in use. And when the weather is nice? Simply roll up the garage door, and you’ve got an indoor-outdoor play zone.

Home Gym Setup

Having a dedicated home gym might seem like a luxury, but with a custom garage makeover, it’s more achievable than you think. With durable flooring that’s easy to clean, you can create a designated workout area for weights, cardio equipment, or yoga mats. Our custom cabinetry can house your workout gear, from free weights to resistance bands, while wall storage can hold bicycles, helmets, or even foldable gym equipment. With an organized system in place, you’ll have a clean, motivating space to meet your fitness goals without sacrificing other parts of your home.

garage checkboard racing floor and black cabinets

Storage for Outdoor and Seasonal Gear

If you’re an outdoor enthusiast, you know how hard it can be to find a spot for your bikes, skis, snowboards, kayaks, and other seasonal gear. By incorporating custom racks, wall-mounted hooks, and adjustable shelving, we can transform your garage into a streamlined storage space for all your hobbies. Everything will be easy to access when you need it, and safely stowed away when it’s not in use. You can even designate different areas of the garage for each season—summer gear on one side and winter gear on the other—so you’re always ready for your next adventure.

Finally Fit That Second Car

Of course, let’s not forget one of the most practical reasons to invest in a garage makeover: to finally fit both cars. With the right custom storage, you can clear up floor space by moving all your clutter, tools, and other equipment to shelves, overhead racks, and wall-mounted systems. Even bulky items like lawnmowers or gardening tools can find a proper place, freeing up enough room to park your second car and still have a well-organized garage.

Crafting a Functional Workshop

If you’re into DIY projects or woodworking, your garage could become your new workshop. By incorporating a sturdy workbench, cabinets for tool storage, and customized drawers for smaller items like nails and screws, we can create the ultimate workspace. Having dedicated zones for different types of tools and supplies will help you stay organized and productive, and installing durable, easy-to-clean flooring ensures that your space stays tidy no matter the project.

Seasonal Storage for Holiday Décor

Every homeowner knows the hassle of storing bulky holiday decorations like Christmas trees, wreaths, and lights. Rather than stashing everything in closets or the attic, your garage can provide ideal storage with the right system in place. Install overhead storage racks for those larger items, and use tall cabinets or shelving for neatly labeled bins. This will keep your décor safe and out of the way until the holiday season rolls around again.

 

three car garage flooring

The Foundation: Durable and Sustainable Flooring

When considering a garage transformation, flooring is often overlooked but is a critical aspect of the space. A durable and sustainable floor provides a solid foundation for all the activity that happens in a garage, from parking cars to home gym workouts and even messy DIY projects. We recommend flooring that is resistant to spills, stains, and heavy foot traffic, making it easy to clean and maintain.

Why Behind Closed Doors?

At Behind Closed Doors Custom Closets and Cabinetry, we specialize in turning your garage into the ultimate flex space. From custom cabinetry and wall-mounted storage systems to durable flooring solutions, we’ll help you design a garage that meets all your needs, whether it’s storage, workspace, or additional living space. Our tailored solutions ensure that your garage works for your family’s unique lifestyle, providing functionality, organization, and style all in one.

Ready to transform your garage into the perfect multi-use space? Contact us today for a consultation, and let’s make your garage as flexible and functional as the rest of your home.

GET STARTED TODAY

Find Your Organization Style: A Quiz for Smart, Space-Saving Solutions​

Bcd Quiz Graphic 2
DOWNLOAD QUIZ
DOWNLOAD ANSWERS
library study with books and built in desk

Back to School, Back to Focus | Home Study and Office Design by Behind Closed Doors

August 22, 2025 No Comments

Back to School, Back to Focus: Transform Any Room into a Study, Office, or Quiet Retreat
A new school year is the perfect time to reset how your home works for you. From homework stations and college prep to work-from-home setups or empty nest makeovers, Behind Closed Doors Custom Closets and Cabinetry creates personalized designs for focus, organization, and inspiration. We specialize in study nooks, offices, mud rooms, garages, libraries, and creative spaces that evolve with every stage of life.

Read More »
master closet with island and under window cabinets

Upgrade to A Boutique Closet

June 30, 2025 No Comments

Transform unused space into a luxurious walk-in closet with custom design, real wood cabinetry, and boutique-style features. See why Delaware homeowners are upgrading with Behind Closed Doors.

Read More »

Tips for a Clutter-Free New Year (Free Downloadable Checklists)

Bcd Graphic For Checklist

The New Year is the perfect time to reset, refresh, and reclaim control over your home. Clutter can impact not only your physical environment but also your mood and productivity. At Behind Closed Doors Custom Closets and Cabinetry, we understand that a well-organized space is the foundation of a serene, functional home.

We sat down with our expert design team to bring you practical, high-impact solutions for tackling clutter, optimizing your space, and maintaining an organized home year-round. Plus, don’t miss our downloadable New Year Organization Checklist at the end of the article!

Q&A with Our Expert Designers

Q: What are your top tips for starting the New Year with a clutter-free home?

A: Start by creating a clean slate:

  1. Edit Your Belongings: Go through every space and let go of what no longer serves you—donate, recycle, or discard.

  2. Focus on High-Traffic Zones: Start with the areas that see the most activity, such as entryways, kitchens, and closets. These spaces will have the most immediate impact.

  3. Adopt a Daily Reset: Spend just 15 minutes each evening putting things back where they belong. It’s an easy habit that transforms your home over time.

Q: How can people set realistic organizing goals?

A: The key to success is creating systems that fit your lifestyle. Start small and work in phases—one room or area at a time. Reflect on what’s working in your space and what isn’t, and focus on solutions that are easy to maintain.

Q: What are some quick wins for instant organization?

A: Even small changes can make a big difference:

  • Create a “drop zone” in your entryway for keys, bags, and shoes.

  • Organize a junk drawer to keep essential items like batteries and pens accessible.

  • Declutter your nightstand for a calming start and end to your day.

  • Spend 15 minutes editing your closet to remove anything that’s worn out or unworn.

Q: How do you recommend handling high-traffic areas like kitchens and living rooms?

A: High-traffic areas thrive on simplicity. Assign every item a “home,” such as hooks for backpacks, baskets for remotes, and trays for mail. Most importantly, establish a habit of putting things back in their proper place after use.

Q: What strategies work best for small spaces or homes with limited storage?

A: Small spaces call for creative solutions:

  • Opt for multifunctional furniture, like ottomans with storage or wall beds.

  • Use vertical space—install hooks, shelves, or over-the-door organizers.

  • Regularly edit your belongings to ensure you only keep what you truly love or need.

2022 08 12 0003

Q: How can families with children stay organized?

A: Involve your kids! Give them accessible storage solutions and teach them habits like a daily tidy-up routine. Create zones for their belongings, such as bins for toys or shelves for books, to keep their areas manageable.

Q: Are there common organizing myths you’d like to debunk?

A: Absolutely! The biggest myth is that some people are just “naturally organized.” Organization is a skill anyone can learn by implementing habits and systems. It’s also okay to seek help from professionals—it’s what we’re here for!

Q: Can technology help with home organization?

A: Yes! Apps can remind you of decluttering tasks or help you inventory seasonal items. QR code labels are also great for tracking what’s stored in bins or boxes.

Q: What are some sustainable organizing practices?

A: Organize with the planet in mind:

  • Donate, sell, or recycle items responsibly to reduce waste.

  • Use eco-friendly storage solutions or repurpose items you already own.

  • Embrace minimalism by focusing on quality over quantity.

Q: How can people maintain motivation throughout the year?

A: Start small, celebrate your wins, and develop daily habits like the 15-minute tidy. Regularly revisit your systems to ensure they’re working for you and adjust as needed.

At Behind Closed Doors Custom Closets and Cabinetry, we specialize in designing spaces that bring calm to chaos. Whether it’s a custom closet, pantry, or home office, our expert team is here to help you create a home that’s as functional as it is beautiful.

Ready to transform your space? Contact us today to schedule your consultation and start your journey toward an organized, peaceful home.

Downloadable Checklists: Closet Inventory & Closet Cleaning Schedule

Take the first step toward a clutter-free New Year with our New Year Organization Checklists. This simple, actionable guide includes:

  • Step-by-step decluttering tips for every room.
  • Easy daily habits to maintain order.
  • Ideas for organizing seasonal items and creating sustainable systems.
Click here to download your closet cleaning checklist
Click here to download your closet inventory checklist

Tips for Controlling Dust in your Closet

The only thing that kills the vibe of a perfectly organized closet? Dust. And while it’s inevitable that dust will collect in your closet (thanks mainly to shedding from your clothes), there are plenty of ways to keep it at bay so your space stays neat and your clothes stay fresh. Enter our top three tips for controlling dust in your closet!

1.Add doors and drawers to your closet system

It’s simple—the more clothing items that are behind closed doors, the less dust that accumulates, period. So keep that in mind when designing or upgrading your closet! We especially love drawers for sweaters, which shed easily.

custom closet, drawers, shelves

2. Put pieces you don’t use frequently in garment bags

Most people won’t have doors on their entire closet system so another great solution for dust is garment bags. These work especially well for items you don’t wear as frequently—like dress coats, fancy dresses, and suits.

2023 06 20 0001

3. Incorporate boxes and bins

Boxes and bins are another great way to cut down on the amount of dust that invades your closet. You can use them in open shelving areas instead of placing the clothing directly on the shelves. Keeping shoes off the ground on shelves or shoe racks is another great way to cut down on dust, as it creates less clutter for vacuuming and mopping.

2023 06 20 0002

Now it’s time to start implementing these strategies! If you’re looking to upgrade your closet system, contact us today!

Outdated Closet Rules We Think You Should Break

Some people are rule followers and some are rule breakers! While there are many closet “rules” we always recommend adhering to—like a place for everything, everything in its place—there are others we don’t mind breaking! Here are four outdated closet rules we think can be tossed out when planning your next custom closet with Behind Closed Doors:

1.Rainbow organize your closet

If you’re a type A person who needs to rainbow organize to stay sane, then by all means, go for it! But if it’s not something that would greatly affect your well being, then it’s definitely in the category of outdated rules that can be tossed out. Not only does it suck up a lot of time at the onset, but it takes an effort to keep up with as well. Other ways to organize your closet include by category (grouping blouses, denim, skirts, sweaters, etc.) or by outfits (keeping pants and shirts that you wear together near one another). Basically, you have free reign to organize your closet in whatever fashion works best for you!

2023 04 28 0001

2. Your hangers have to match

You may not want to spend extra money replacing all your hangers right after your new closet is installed or you may really like some of the hangers you’re currently using or you might just not care enough about matching hangers to even bother! Either way, this is definitely one of those rules you shouldn’t stress about when organizing your new closet.

2023 04 28 0002

3. Pack away your seasonal clothes

Obviously your closet is going to change with the seasons but if you’re closet can fit all of your clothes, we say keep them all there! There’s no need to move seasonal clothing completely out of your closet if you have enough room to simply shift it to the back or another area. We’ve seen some clients build in extra cabinets and drawers specifically for storing seasonal clothes. Then they switch those clothes to the more prominent spaces each season! Of course, there are probably always going to be some things you move out of the closet with the seasons—like heavy jackets, boots, and large sweaters. But being able to keep most of your wardrobe in the same space is a lot less work!

2022 11 01 0003

4. You have to fill every square inch of space

We love when clients leave some space for their wardrobe to expand over time. If some of your racks, shelves, drawers or cabinets aren’t completely full after your custom closet installation, DO NOT rush out and buy more clothing! Let those spaces sit for a bit until you find a purpose for them. Sometimes just letting unoccupied spaces be allows your mind to process the best way to fill them!

2023 04 28 0003

Now that we’ve hopefully relieved some of the stress of closet organization, it’s time to design a closet that works for you! Contact us today to get started!

Design Trend: Murphy Beds

Wall beds, or Murphy Beds, are not a new trend. In fact, they’ve been around for over a century! But they’ve recently made a resurgence in home design and for good reason—they’re the ultimate space-saving solution. Here are the top reasons we think you should add one to your home!

They make a room multi-functional

We love a dual purpose room, and Murphy Beds are the perfect way to make a space serve double duty. Why dedicate an entire room to guests who you only host a few times a year when you can add a Murphy Bed to your office, craft room or sun porch that tucks away when not in use? The most popular room to incorporate a Murphy Bed into is the home office. With the rise of working from home post-Covid, home offices are getting much more use. As these spaces become more coveted, they’re taking precedence over dedicated guest rooms. Hence why adding a Murphy Bed to the space just makes plain sense!

2023 04 14 0003

They’re stylish

The recent re-popularity of Murphy Beds has brought with it an increased focus on style, resulting in products that are far more attractive than wall beds of the past! Many of the units include built-in shelving and storage, which is especially fitting for a home office setting. There are also several options for how they operate—pull down (cabinet) or pull out (drawer). Either way, these beds will make a stylish addition to any room in your house!

2023 04 14 0002

They help de-clutter

There’s nothing more satisfying than a well organized home! Having things put away gives tremendous peace of mind. So the idea of being able to tuck away a bed that’s not in use is extremely gratifying. One less bed to keep made and straight—until you need it that is!

2023 04 14 0001

If you’re re-evaluating how well your primary residence or second home functions, contact us today to learn more about our wall bed options!

Five Signs it’s Time to Upgrade your Closet

March is here—a time for spring cleaning and organizing! So what better time to start thinking about your closet storage needs! If you’ve been weighing whether the time is right to finally pull the trigger on a custom closet, let us help! Here are five signs that it’s time to upgrade your closet.

1. It’s a mess

The No. 1 sign that it’s time to upgrade your closet is clutter! Sure, you can add in hampers, baskets and bins to try to control the mess, but the simple fact is if you don’t have enough space, the only solution is to install a better functioning closet. Period.

2. You can’t find anything

We’ve all been there—you’re staring into your closet searching for a specific shirt, dress or pair of paints, but it’s eluding you due to clutter and chaos. If you’re relying on builder-grade closets that don’t cater to your individual wardrobe, then you’re in need of a solution that will make your life easier—a better functioning closet! Think built-in drawers, varying height hanging areas, dedicated shoe storage, and maybe even an island to store accessories if you have space!

3. You don’t have enough storage space

When we say you don’t have enough storage space, we mean you don’t have enough usable storage space. Most builder-grade closets neglect to take full advantage of vertical space, which results in a lot of wasted space. Builder-grade closets also don’t give you the diversity of storage that a custom closet does. They mainly include hanging space and shelves—no drawers, no shoe racks, no dividers. You’ll be amazed at how much you can actually fit into your closet once your custom closet is installed!

2023 03 01 0002

4. Getting things down is a workout

If you’re forced to stack sweaters, jeans and other foldable clothing on high shelves, you’re in for a workout every time you have to get them down. Customizing the height of your closet shelves is one of the best features in a new closet, as it allows for easier access to everything in your closet!

5. You dread changing out your wardrobe each season

You know your closet isn’t functioning properly if you absolutely dread changing out your wardrobe each season. That means the clutter and chaos have gotten so out of control that you can’t even bring yourself to get into the right mindset to start sorting. Breaking out your spring or fall wardrobes should be exciting, not seem like a chore. Bring some joy back into your life with a custom closet this season!

 

Contact us today to schedule your in-home consultation!

 

+ More

Join Our Team

Join Our Team

Get Started