Designers Swear by Painting the Inside of Your Closet—Here’s Why

A closet should never have main character energy—or at least that’s what conventional design wisdom tells us. Since this area is filled to the gills with dresses, coats, and dapper accessories, the fashion is always the star and the closet itself is relegated to a practical (and often neglected) refuge. The good news? As Ghislaine Viñas proves, it doesn’t have to be that way.

Lately, the New York-based designer has sidestepped tradition by painting closets’ interiors bright, bold hues. “I’ve always been drawn to the idea that every space, no matter how small or hidden, deserves intention,” she explains. “Closets are almost like little private rooms, and I love the idea of opening a door and having a moment of surprise.”

While that unexpected “wow” factor does offer an element of surprise and delight, Viñas says it can also bring an emotional, immersive layer to a historically utilitarian area. “A painted backdrop elevates everything,” she says. “It turns your wardrobe into more of a curated display rather than just storage.”

Sure, this idea can be written off as a purely aesthetics-driven move; however, there’s more to a painted closet than vibes. A vibrant interior can create the illusion of a larger space, hide scuff marks, and help showcase your stuff. “Colors and textures become more pronounced, and you start to notice combinations you might have,” Viñas says. “It subtly encourages a more thoughtful relationship with your clothing. You’re not just grabbing something, you’re engaging with it.”

Practical and pretty? Who wouldn’t want to apply this trick to every closet, cabinet, or some alcove? Not so fast, Viñas says. Though a painted interior works well in walk-ins, reach-ins, or store-bought wardrobes, the designer cautions you to tread lightly. “This isn’t for every room in the house as I think you would lose the magic, but in very specific rooms and cabinets, it feels wonderful,” she says.

Instead, inject this idea into spaces that will offer maximum visual impact. A sleek white room or wooden-flanked built-ins might look boring at first glance, but when you open a cabinet door? Bam! You’re hit with unbridled and unapologetically joyful color—the design-equivalent of a surprise party or a flashmob.

Of course, part of the magic is choosing the right color. While Viñas consults her clients, and considers lighting as well as the rest of the home’s decor, no shade is off limits. “I tend to gravitate toward rich, enveloping colors, like deep mossy greens, mustards, warm burgundies, or muted ochres,” she says. “I also love soft, dusty pastels when I want something lighter but still intentional.” And other times? A tomato red might be the perfect finishing touch. Regardless of the exact shade, Viñas recommends paint with an eggshell finish. “It reflects just enough light without feeling glossy,” she notes.

Once you found a color you love, paint everything—including the trim, shelves, and closet rod—for an immersive, otherworldly feel. But unlike Cher Horowitz’s digital display or that wardrobe that leads to Narnia, this closet idea relies on real-life magic to elevate the everyday.

“It’s the relatively small gestures that can completely shift your daily routine,” she says. “Closets are where your day often begins and ends, so why not make that moment feel a little more beautiful, a little more intentional?” We couldn’t agree more.