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Smart Storage
    Monday, August 30,  2010
   By: Rachel McMurray  

   

A crew of clever businesswomen understand the nuances of customizing closets.

Julie Kenney has always had a knack for the fine details of creating homes. In 1991, she and husband Steve moved to Mobile to start the homebuilding business, Kenney-Moise Inc. In 2006, she decided to incorporate custom storage into one of their spec homes. It resulted in a happy homeowner, who would not stop raving about the feature. "It added so much value and function to the home that we decided to offer this in all the homes we built," Julie says.

Soon after that decision, the Kenneys expanded the homebuilding business to include Custom Closets, and became ORG dealers. Custom Closets revamps closets in existing homes as well as those being constructed or remodeled by other builders.

"Mobile women are family centered, involved in many activities, so saving time and keeping a nice, organized home is important to them," Julie says. "We're really selling peace of mind."

Customer Sheila McInniss agrees with Kenney. "I just love organization," she says. Initially, McInniss and her husband had only the master closet customized, then ended up remodeling every closet in the house. "It was a great decision, and we will want terrific closets in our next house."

At Custom Closets, the primary installation crew, shop manager and all designers are female. That, Julie feels, gives her staff insight into what women want - beauty and function. Men also appreciate the benefits of custom storage, because it adds to the resale value and overall attractiveness of the house.

Image information:

Main: A variety of hanging and folding compartments, shelves, drawers, baskets and shoe racks maximize a small space. A valet rod extends from the shoe shelf, and makes the perfect spot to hang the dry cleaning, or to prepare tomorrow's outfit. Clothes will stay ready-to-go and wrinkle-free.

Left: A jewelry tray is a must-have in every Southern woman's closet. A drawer with luxurious lining and a variety of compartments separates and stores valuables. A clear layer creates extra space and visibility, so jewelry is easily seen, selected and, most importantly, protected.

Middle: Hats off to a space that every man will appreciate. Three laminate shelves serve as a hat display, so he can make an easy choice, whether he is going to play golf or take the boat out. Shelves, hanging spaces and drawers can be added, removed and resized as storage preferences change.

Right: This walk-in closet has a tall hanging rack, perfect for keeping Mardi Gras gowns or formals crisp and clean. A long mirror makes it easy to pick an outfit.

Photos by Lyle W. Ratliff

Custom Closets
881 Hillcrest Road, 634-8166.
customclosetsmobile.com