A Helpful Guide to Planning Your Custom Storage Project with Catalina Closets
- Eric Johnson
- Aug 25
- 6 min read
Ever feel like your home is fighting back when you try to tidy up? Like, no matter how many bins or baskets you buy, the clutter keeps coming back? You’re not alone.
The secret to a well-organized space isn’t more stuff—it’s smarter design. And that’s exactly where a custom storage project comes in.
At Catalina Closets, we help homeowners throughout Dane County and surrounding areas design modern, functional, and beautiful custom storage solutions. Whether you’re transforming a master closet, converting a guest room into a craft studio, or creating a built-in wall unit for your living room, we walk with you through every step of the journey.
This guide walks you through every step—from that first consultation to the final installation—so you know exactly what to expect. Plus, you’ll find tips, examples, and advice to ensure your project is smooth, efficient, and stress-free.
Step-by-Step Guide to Your Custom Storage Project
Here at Catalina Closets, we understand that the perfect storage solution starts with a clear plan. Here’s how we take your project from dream to reality.
Step 1: Schedule Your Free Consultation
We start with a free, no-obligation consultation at your home or virtually. This is our chance to hear about your needs, see your space, and answer your questions.
We’ll discuss:
What’s working (and not working) in your current space
Your daily routines and storage habits
Your style preferences (modern, minimal, clean)
Budget and timing goals
Step 2: Custom Design Tailored to You
Once we understand your goals, our expert designers create a custom storage design specifically for your space.
Using advanced 3D rendering technology, we bring your design to life, allowing you to visualize options before making any commitments. This collaborative process ensures the final layout is not only functional but also aligns perfectly with your aesthetic preferences.
Client Success Story: Lucy Pavisich from Madison raves about how streamlined the process was. "Eric came to our home to measure and discuss design plans... The turnaround time for completion was a few weeks, and the project was installed in a day!"
Step 3: Approval and Minor Adjustments
After presenting the initial design, we’ll work with you to tweak the plans until they’re just right. From selecting finishes to adjusting shelving heights, every detail can be customized to suit your requirements.
Step 4: Efficient Fabrication and Installation
Unlike long lead times with other companies, Catalina Closets manufactures everything locally in Wisconsin. This allows for a quicker turnaround and ensures the highest quality standards.
Once your design is finalized, our skilled installation team will transform your space efficiently and with minimal disruption.
Installations are often completed in a single day, helping you enjoy your new storage solution without a drawn-out process.
Closet and Cabinet Planning: What to Consider Before Starting Your Custom Storage Project
Proper preparation can make all the difference. Here’s a checklist to guide you before beginning your custom storage project.
Define Your Goals: What problems are you trying to solve? A lack of organization? Small closets that feel crowded? Think about your top priorities.
Identify Your Style: Are you drawn to clean, minimalist designs? Catalina Closets specializes in European-style cabinetry with a modern aesthetic.
Budget Planning: Decide how much you’re comfortable spending and share that with your designer. We’ll craft a solution that fits within your budget without compromising quality.
Storage Purpose: Be clear about the function of the space. Are you planning for clothing, books, or craft supplies? This will determine shelving types, drawer configurations, and other features.
Take Inventory: Make a list of items you need to store to ensure nothing is overlooked.
Quick Tip: Bring inspiration photos or sketches to your consultation to help communicate your vision.
Custom Storage Project: The Collaborative Design Process
At Catalina Closets, we believe that the best designs come from working closely with our clients. Our team takes a hands-on approach, guiding you through every decision while respecting your unique preferences.
We pride ourselves on removing the stress from decision-making, narrowing down options to those that work best for your space. With our expertise and your input, the result is a thoughtfully designed storage solution that feels like it was made just for you—because it was.
Client Quote: "Eric made our mudroom both functional and pretty! He took the time to listen, offered great ideas, and stayed within our budget. It turned out great!" – Nicole R.
Inspiration from Past Custom Storage Projects
Looking for ideas? Here are a few examples of how Catalina Closets has transformed homes in Madison and the Wisconsin Dells.
Modern Sewing Studio: Local client Katherine T. had her sewing room revamped with custom shelving, desks, and a tabletop to create an organized and inspiring workspace.
"Eric was a pleasure to work with. He and his team did a quick installation of my custom shelving, desks, and tabletop. They left the space clean, and it is exactly what I wanted. "
Library Dream Come True: Courtney K.'s spare room was transformed into a stunning library with floor-to-ceiling custom-built shelving, completed efficiently and beyond expectations.
"Eric helped take our spare room from "a place where I put my books" to a real library! I had some high-level ideas but no clue where to start, and with his and Paul's expertise it became a reality better (and quicker) than I could have imagined! "
The Master Closet Upgrade: Ali & Andrew W. were thrilled with their revamped master closet, which utilized every inch for smart storage. 3D renderings helped them perfect the design before work began.
"Eric was great to work with in helping us redo our master closet. He understood exactly what we needed and helped us utilize our master closet to fit even more in an organized fashion. His experience helped us make decisions that we never would have thought about. We loved that we were able to see a 3d drawing of our new space before committing the project. "
These are just a few examples of how we’ve helped clients create spaces they love.
Custom Storage Project's Timeline Expectations and Budgeting Tips
Wondering, “How long will this take?” We’ve got you covered!
While every project is unique, here’s a quick timeline to help you plan:
Consultation & Design: 1–2 weeks – This is when we bring your vision to life!
Approval & Adjustments: 1 week – Your chance to finalize every detail.
Fabrication: 2–3 weeks – We get to work building your dream storage.
Installation: 1–2 days – Fast and seamless, with minimal disruption to your space.
At Catalina Closets, we focus on quality and efficiency by sourcing materials locally and relying on our skilled team to deliver beautiful results—on time.
Let’s Talk Budget
Sticking to a budget doesn’t mean sacrificing style or functionality. We’ll be upfront with a detailed estimate and work with you to balance costs in a way that makes sense.
Budget Tip: Invest in the features you’ll use daily, like top-notch drawers or soft-close hardware. Save on less-used elements to maximize your budget without compromising your dream design.
With the right planning and the right team (that’s us!), your custom storage project can be smooth, stress-free, and tailored just for you.
Your Vision, Our Expertise
Planning a custom storage project is exciting, and Catalina Closets is here to make the process fun, stress-free, and rewarding. From modern mudrooms to sophisticated closets, our solutions are uniquely tailored to your lifestyle and preferences.
When you work with Catalina Closets, you’re not just getting a contractor—you’re partnering with local experts dedicated to helping you organize and elevate your space.
Take the First Step Today
If your home feels disorganized or outdated, it might be time to rethink how your space works. Whether it’s a sleek closet upgrade, new built-ins, or a total home storage project makeover, Catalina Closets is here to bring your vision to life.
Together, we’ll turn your vision into reality with modern, minimalist, frameless designs tailored just for you. With over 50 years of combined experience and a commitment to quality, we’re your trusted partner in storage design.
Catalina Closets — Expertly Designed. Locally Built.
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