8 Closet Door Alternatives to Spruce Up Your Home

Maybe you’re putting together your dream bedroom, or want to refresh your space. If you haven’t considered closet door alternatives yet, you should. It’s a great way to take something that’s often overlooked and add a new twist to it. The right closet door alternative will help tie your space together while still being functional.

1. No Door

For a modern look, skip the closet door altogether and let your closet space be an extension of your bedroom. You might opt to do this if you love the look of your closet—maybe you splurged on a custom closet from a closer maker near you, or enjoy keeping it tidy and organized. Ditching the door can also help a smaller bedroom feel bigger.

Best for: Organized, visually pleasing closets

2. French Doors

If you like the idea of making your room feel bigger but still want a door, a French door could be a good option. Installing traditional French doors with clear windows allows you to easily take a peek at what’s inside the closet. On the other hand, you could opt for doors with frosted glass if you want to enjoy the visual appeal of the doors while keeping the closet area private.

Best for: Adding a light, airy vibe

3. Sliding Doors

Sliding closet doors are convenient and come in a variety of designs. They allow you to have your closet door partially open without blocking the walkway, which is a plus if you’re always on the go. Traditional two-track systems with two doors or three-track systems with three doors are available for larger-than-average closets.

There are rustic barn doors if you have a farm-style home, a wood slat door to add texture to the space, or MDF doors for a traditional look. Another sliding door option is pocket doors. These doors slide into the wall and are ideal for smaller rooms.

Best for: Small closets and tiny bedrooms

4. Curtains

Using curtains instead of closet doors is cost-effective and easy to DIY. It’s best to choose curtains based on the look you’re going for—light, sheer curtains will add an airy vibe, whereas dark, heavy drapes offer a stately feel. Optionally, installing curtain tiebacks allows you to pull the curtains back for a no-door look.

Non-traditional curtain options to consider include macrame and beaded curtains. Macrame will add a boho, vintage-inspired look, while beaded curtains evoke the 1960s.

Best for: Those sticking to a budget

5. Glass Partition

If you’re planning a closet remodel and want something contemporary, a glass partition is one of your best bets. There are many possible layouts, like installing a partition parallel to the closet doors with a large opening. You might also install a partition in a rectangular shape with multiple openings that serve as doors. These partitions are typically wall-to-ceiling glass pieces with different colored frames. Frosted glass can increase the level of privacy, whereas clear glass can be paired with curtains.

Best for: Modern spaces

6. Wood Partition

Consider a wood partition if glass is too modern for your space. These are often slatted wood pieces that are also used as room dividers. It’ll add a down-to-earth vibe to your room while also working well as a focal point. Choosing lighter-toned wood helps brighten the space while darker-toned wood adds drama.

Best for: Contemporary homes with a down-to-earth vibe

7. Foldable Room Divider

A foldable room divider is similar in concept to a glass partition, but it’s much more budget-friendly. It requires no special installation other than setting it up. The divider is likely to work better if you have enough space to allow for a walkway. This way, you don’t have to move it every time you want to enter the closet. Any room divider will work, so you’ll be able to find one that perfectly matches your room’s decor.

Best for: Someone looking for a quick or simple solution

8. Secret Door

Installing a secret door is an out-of-the-box closet design idea that’s both fun and space-saving. Most secret bookshelf doors are single shelves that slide to the side or swing outward. There are also double French bookshelf secret doors for an even bigger opening. It’s a win-win if you have a small space, since your door doubles as an extra shelf.

Best for: Whimsical homes