INTERVIEW WITH JULIEANNE NETTUNE

The most exceptional interiors are defined by how seamlessly everything functions behind the scenes. For Short Hills-based interior designer and Closet Factory design consultant Julieanne Nettune, that idea is the foundation of everything she designs. Here, she shares the philosophy behind spaces that are as beautiful as they are organized.

How did your background in interior design shape your approach to custom closet design, and what makes a closet feel like a true extension of a room rather than a hidden space?

My background in interior design has taught me that every space deserves thoughtful design—including the closet. Whether it’s a luxury walk-in, a simple reach-in, a pantry, a home office, an entertainment center, or a classic white everyday closet, I approach each project with the same attention to function, proportion, and style. No space is too small to make an impact. Even a simple reach-in can become a beautiful design statement when it’s tailored to the way someone lives.

Could you walk us through your design process, from intake to installation, and how you tailor solutions to different client lifestyles?

Every project begins with listening. I take the time to understand how my clients live, what isn’t working in their current space, and what they want to achieve. From there, I create a custom design that balances organization, functionality, and aesthetics while reflecting their own lifestyle and the style of their home.

One of the things that truly sets Closet Factory apart is that our showroom, offices, and manufacturing facility are all under one roof. Because we design, manufacture, and install everything ourselves, there’s seamless communication throughout the entire process. Many of our team members have been with the company for years, and that experience and craftsmanship are reflected in every installation. It’s a customized, collaborative process from the initial consultation to the final installation, ensuring every detail is executed exactly as it was designed.

What are the top closet design trends you’re seeing right now, and how do you balance trendy features with timeless functionality in a space that’s meant to endure daily use?

I’m seeing clients embrace closets that feel less like storage and more like beautifully curated living spaces. Integrated lighting, glass display cabinets, islands, elegant hardware, and warm wood finishes are all increasingly popular. At the same time, many homeowners still prefer the timeless appeal of a classic white closet. The best spaces are designed around how a client lives today while remaining flexible enough to adapt as their needs change over time.

What are your best tips for maximizing storage in compact spaces without sacrificing style?

Small spaces often require the most creativity. My goal is to maximize every inch with thoughtful planning, vertical storage, and customized solutions that fit both my clients’ needs and their budget. With the right layout and finishes, even the smallest closet can feel spacious, organized, and beautifully integrated into the home.

Can you share a memorable project where you designed a closet around a client’s unique habits or collection?

One project that stands out was designing a custom display for a client with an extensive collection of vintage Matchbox cars and classic Dukes of Hazzard memorabilia. The collection included thousands of pieces, so the challenge was creating a space that felt more like a gallery than a storage unit. We incorporated illuminated shelving to showcase the collection while keeping it organized and protected. It was incredibly rewarding to transform something so personal into a feature the client could enjoy every day.

How do you approach color, materials, and lighting in a closet to create a space that feels calm and inspires?

Whether the home is warm and traditional, clean and modern, or somewhere in between, the closet should feel like a natural extension of that style. Thoughtful color selections, quality materials, and well-planned lighting all work together to create a space that feels inviting and organized. For clients who want to take it a step further, I love helping them create a truly personalized space with decorative lighting, wallpaper on the walls or even the ceiling, and carefully selected finishes. My background in interior design allows me to guide clients through those decisions, creating a closet that not only functions beautifully but also reflects their personal style.

What maintenance tips or small upgrades do you recommend to keep a custom closet looking fresh and functioning well for years?

A well-designed custom closet should provide years of everyday use with very little maintenance. I recommend periodically decluttering, adjusting shelves as storage needs change, and keeping surfaces clean with nonabrasive products. Small updates, such as new decorative hardware or lighting, can also refresh the space without a complete redesign.

One of the advantages of working with Closet Factory is our lifetime warranty, which gives clients added peace of mind knowing their investment is built to last and supported long after the installation is complete.

Photograph courtesy of Julieanne Nettune