The Endless Versatility of Elfa

Photos courtesy of Kristen Ziegler

Hi - I'm Kristen! I'm a professional organizer, owner of Minima, and one of The Container Store's In-Home Organizer Partners.

When I purchased my first home in 2013, I knew I wanted to install a flexible closet system that could change over time. Of course, I chose The Container Store's Elfa system for its versatility and simple design. I love a solution that can easily change and adapt to a person's needs over time. Elfa is just that—with so many different components to choose from, the options are endless! And it's so well-designed and beautiful.

First, I utilized our free Elfa design service to create my closet solution and added or changed out components as my storage needs evolved over time. This particular closet is small--4' wide x 2'5" deep x 8' high, to be exact--so I chose to leave the door off to make the bedroom feel bigger. (Note: I also keep my folded clothes in drawers in my bedroom, which frees up space in the closet.) Elfa is attractive enough that I don't mind seeing it everyday! Plus, keeping the door off means I have to keep the closet tidy.

The very first version of my Elfa closet included a simple two-shelf solution with our Ventilated Shelving in white and a pair of Closet Rods:

A couple of years later, I decided I needed easier access to my shoes, so I removed the shorter Ventilated Shelf and Closet Rod, and added two of our Angled Solid Metal Shelves to the base design. This freed up the top shelf, where I was then able to add my suitcase and travel accessories:

In 2020, I got married and my husband moved in with me. Luckily, I was still able to adapt my original Elfa closet to fit both of their storage needs! Although we are minimalists, it was still a major challenge to figure out how to fit a whole additional person's wardrobe into a very small closet. Elfa to the rescue!

My husband and I still kept most of our folded clothing in underbed drawers, but we chose to add two Elfa Classic Mesh Hanging Drawers for jeans and slacks, as well as one Elfa Mesh Gliding Shoe Shelf for shoes.

We also added a second Ventilated Shelf to the top of the design to accommodate more shoes.

Elfa has been one of the best investments I have made in my home. It has grown and adapted with me as my needs have evolved over time. And now that my husband and I have just purchased a new home, we will be installing Elfa in all of those closets as well!