The best closets feel like stepping into a luxury boutique. All of the clothing is meticulously organized, and each shoe and piece of jewelry has a designated home. No space better embodies this marriage of finery and functionality than rapper Nelly's walk-in closet.
The singer worked with Jennifer Q. Williams of Saint Louis Closets to design and install a fully customized recording studio closet inside his Derrty Entainment headquarters in St. Louis, Missouri. It is built of clean white cabinetry with glass doors and matte black hardware, and a contrasting island. It features custom details like adjustable shelving and velvet-lined jewelry drawers.
Strikingly, the glass windows and recessed lighting give it that luxe, boutique shop look for a clever take on closet storage. Clear stackable boxes (like these from Walmart) can help to create a similar 'boutique' feel in a smaller closet.
What were the top considerations in creating this beautiful ode to organization?
The custom closet designer, Jennifer, explains: 'Because this closet lives inside Nelly’s recording studio, the design needed to feel like an extension of his creative environment. We wanted it to be sleek and modern, yet visually striking. That’s where the black and white contrast mimics that balance between simple organization and bold artistry.'
Create Boutique-Style Organization at Home
Made from clear, durable acrylic, this organizer boasts a stackable design with four sections, keeping your items upright, maintaining their shape, and ensuring easy access.
This set of two dimmable, rechargeable, and easy-to-install lights requires no wiring. They turn on one second after detecting motion and automatically switch off after 25 seconds, helping you save energy and promote a more sustainable home.
Keep your wardrobe neat with these sleek velvet hangers, designed to prevent clothes from slipping off. They're essential in every closet.
Concerned about dust on your cherished purses? Keep them protected and on display with these clear, stackable storage boxes.
Worried about dust on your prized purses? Protect them while keeping them on display with these clear, stackable boxes.
If you don't have space for open shelving, try an over-the-door storage rack, where bags can be neatly displayed and easily accessible.
Lucky for fans of the design, Jennifer says it's easier to replicate than it might look. To begin, you want colors that will create a backdrop for your clothing. She states: 'You don’t need to be a celebrity to have a space similar to this. Start with a neutral and minimal color palette. White cabinetry and black accents instantly scream “modern and luxurious."'
Further customization helps to create a luxury look. Jennifer advises: 'Add glass cabinet doors if you want to create that “boutique-like” feel. The real secret to recreating a look like this is having a place for everything.'
Effective closet design doesn't have to be complicated. As Nelly's space shows, the best designs provide a space for everything in a stylish, neutral environment.
