How to Build a Wine Closet: Part 1
This is a project straight out of my secret stash of cool home improvement ideas. I'm going to show you how to take a coat closet (e.g. in your basement or near the kitchen or dining room) and turn it into a wine closet. I recently did this in my basement and let me tell you- it is pure eye candy.
There is a pretty broad spectrum of things you can do here. I'm going to describe, in depth, what I did and than touch on some other ideas and options. The cost of the project can range from around $200 on the low end to $1000s on the high end. The primary cost drivers are the door and any temperature control that you may want. My project totaled less than $500.
Step 1: Identify the Closet
I recommend something the size of a coat closet- roughly 2-3 feet deep and 3-4 feet wide. These dimensions will allow you to store between 120 and 180 bottles, depending on the rack style you choose. However, you can use a walk-in closet and design a rack layout to fit the space (I'll show you how to do this using a free online tool).
If you have a finished basement, try to pick a closet there. This will provide the best year round storage temperature (assuming you don't install a temperature regulator). If you don't have a basement, or if it is unfinished, try to locate a closet near an area that guests congregate- perhaps the kitchen or dining area.
Step 2: Completely Empty the Closet
Now we've got to get everything out of the closet- trench coats, Halloween costumes, fishing poles, wrapping paper, and anything else that you've been too afraid to donate or throw away. Once the personal belongings are gone, remove the closet hardware- hanger bar, shelving, etc. I also, recommend that you remove the base molding in the back of the closet so that the wine rack can mount flush against the wall. If you want to change the flooring, now is the time to do it. I tore out carpet and installed slate tile.
Step 3: Drywall Work (If Applicable)
There are two things you may want to do that will require you to cut into the drywall. The first is any electrical modification- an overhead light and switch and/or an outlet for low voltage lighting. If you do this, I recommend installing the switch on the outside of the closet. The second thing that requires cutting into drywall is a temperature control system. This is very involved- my wine closet is not temperature controlled. If you want to do this, you will need to blow or spray insulation behind the walls and ceiling. You will also need an insulated door. The cooling unit may need to be vented. All in all, it's a very expensive project. I will assume that most people will not want to spend the time and money on this. If you do, Wine Enthusiast is a good place to start your research.
Step 4: The Door
Assuming you opt out of the temperature control system, the door is the only real cost driver. The way I see it, you have three options:
1. Remove the door, turning the closet into an alcove. Cost: $0. I like this option. If you do this, consider eventually switching out the door casing for a more decorative casing. To keep costs down, just remove the door hardware and fill the holes with wood filler.
2. Replace the existing closet door with a glass door. Look here for an example- these start at around $270 for stainable pine.
3. Replace the existing closet door with a wrought iron gate. Look here for an example- these start at around $630.
I chose a glass door for my wine closet.
In Part 2 of this article, we select and install the rack, add finishing touches, and I'll post pictures of the completed project.
Jon
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