Hanging rods may seem like one of those closet essentials that is strictly functional, and even uninspiring; but, I have news for you...hanging rods are one of the closet’s most dynamic elements! From the finish to the shape and beyond, hanging rods can be real closet heroes. 

I’ve always thought the best closet rod inspiration comes from your favorite retailers. They often challenge the norm by using fabrics (I've seen leather!), striking colors and finishes, and various shapes that all create a unique shopping experience. Last year, Chanel created a pop-up in St. Tropez and designed a ceiling-suspended black hanging rod grid. The result was architectural and felt like an art exhibit. Balenciaga’s New York flagship store took an industrial take on rods, placing merchandise on aluminum foil-covered ceiling rods on warehouse conveyor rails. Dover Street Market, which opened last year in Los Angeles, has some of the most inventive hanging rods I’ve seen. Each designer is represented as an installation and store-in-store concept, so there’s a diverse range of rods -- from spherical shaped to cages to acrylic boxes. 

Recreating hanging rods like these in a home closet may not always be possible; but, there are plenty of imaginative iterations. While some clients certainly want a traditional look when it comes to displaying their wardrobe (think built-in round chrome rods), more and more are willing to take risks and embrace design-driven rods. That often means playing with color -- bronze, rose gold, brass, matte black and acrylic rods give spaces a stylish pop and that reflect the owner's personal style. Beyond color, shape is another way to get creative with rods. U-shaped rods are popular with those who want to bring a boutique experience to their space. I implemented ceiling-suspended brass rods in my recently revealed closet, which adds a sophisticated sensibility to the space. Wall-mounted rods, like the ones I installed in Jessi Malay’s dressing room, are a great way to show off certain pieces or merchandise looks. 

Hanging rods have really evolved over the years, beyond aesthetics.  LED rods are the ultimate high-tech rod, helping to illuminate your garments while also looking sleek. (You can now shop custom LED rods from us in the online boutique!) For closets with tricky corners, corner rods are a smart solution that can fit your mold to your closet's curves and add additional hanging space. Mobile rods that move up and down with the press of a button are a great option for smaller spaces that have height but not width expansion. Other options for hanging storage solutions are this innovative double hang closet rod, this contemporary clothing rack, and this clever spiral display.