How I Designed a Nursery Closet That Will Grow With My Child
Designing a nursery is exciting, but I knew from experience that babies grow fast—and so do their storage needs.
When planning my second son's nursery, I wanted to create a closet that worked for the newborn stage while being flexible enough to grow with him over the years. Instead of designing a space we'd outgrow in a year or two, I focused on creating an organizing system that could easily adapt as his needs changed.
Here's how I designed a nursery closet that's functional today and ready for whatever comes next.
What I Wanted This Closet to Do
When planning the space, I had a few key goals in mind.
Adjustable Hanging Space
Baby clothes don't stay tiny for long. I wanted a closet that made the most of the available hanging space now while allowing me to easily adjust it as clothing sizes changed.
Plenty of Drawer & Shelf Storage
Drawers and shelves keep everyday essentials organized and easy to find. Right now they hold clothing, blankets, extra diapers, and nursery necessities, but over time they'll transition to sweatshirts, toys, sports gear, and whatever comes next.
Maximize Space & Flexibility
The large walk-in closet had so much potential. I wanted a system that could easily adapt over time by adding shelves, adjusting hanging space, or removing drawers as our needs changed.
Create a Dedicated Changing Area
Instead of placing the changing table in the nursery itself, I wanted everything related to diaper changes in one convenient location. Keeping the changing station inside the closet saves space in the bedroom while keeping diapers, clothing, and supplies all within arm's reach.
The Starting Point
The nursery was originally our older child's playroom, and the walk-in closet had been used as an art space. Like many builder-grade closets, it only had one wire shelf and a single hanging rod.
The space itself was large, but it wasn't being used efficiently and didn't provide nearly enough storage for a growing child.
The Finished Closet
To maximize the space, I chose The Container Store's Elfa Classic system because of its flexibility and adjustability.
One of the biggest advantages of an adjustable closet system is that it evolves with your family. As storage needs change, shelves can be moved, drawers can be added or removed, and hanging space can be adjusted without replacing the entire closet.
Now the closet functions as both storage and a changing station while leaving plenty of flexibility for the years ahead.
Here's a closer look at some of my favorite details from the finished closet.
Why I Chose an Adjustable Closet System
One of the biggest mistakes I see people make is designing a nursery around the baby stage only.
Babies quickly become toddlers, toddlers become kids, and their storage needs change just as quickly.
Choosing an adjustable closet system allowed me to invest in one solution that can continue working as my son grows rather than starting over every few years.
Whether you're planning a nursery, a kid's bedroom, or another closet in your home, I always recommend thinking beyond what you need today and designing for where you'll be in a few years.
Products I Used
Elfa Classic Closet System — The Container Store
Velvet Kids' Non-Slip Hangers — The Container Store
KUGGIS Storage Boxes — IKEA
UPPDATERA Bamboo Storage Boxes — IKEA
ÄLSKVÄRD Changing Table — IKEA
Design Tips I'd Use Again
Design for the next stage, not just the current one.
Maximize vertical space whenever possible.
Choose adjustable systems that can evolve over time.
Give every category of items a designated home.
Leave room for future storage needs.
Ready to Get Started?
Not sure where to begin?
Download my free Make Space Checklist for simple, practical steps to help you declutter, organize, and create spaces that work better.
Need Help Planning Your Space?
Whether you're organizing a nursery, designing a custom closet, or planning another space in your home, I'd love to help you create a system that works for your family today—and grows with you over time.
