Planner inputs
Example data table
| Scenario | Width | Depth | Height | Shelves | Bins | Estimated total |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Compact potting nook | 90 cm | 45 cm | 200 cm | 4 | 16 | PKR 38,000–52,000 |
| Medium tool pantry | 120 cm | 55 cm | 220 cm | 5 | 25 | PKR 60,000–85,000 |
| Wide shed cabinet | 180 cm | 60 cm | 240 cm | 6 | 48 | PKR 95,000–135,000 |
Formula used
How to use this calculator
- Measure the inside width, depth, and height of your garden closet.
- Pick a clearance value for airflow and easy removal.
- Choose shelves and rods based on what you store most.
- Enter bin dimensions that fit your pots, gloves, and parts.
- Select material, finish, and labor for a budget estimate.
- Press calculate to see results above the form.
Storage capacity benchmarks for garden closets
Garden closets behave like small warehouses. This planner estimates usable volume after clearance, then translates shelves, rods, and bin storage into workable capacity. As a rule of thumb, 0.06 m³ of effective bin space can hold one mixed tool set: hand trowel, pruners, gloves, twine, labels, and a small parts box. Use that benchmark to prevent overcrowding and reduce time spent searching.
Shelf planning for weight, reach, and airflow
Shelf area is calculated from usable width and depth, multiplied by shelf count. For gardening supplies, keep heavier items below waist height: fertilizer bags, soil amendments, and spare pots. Leave a small rear gap for airflow to reduce mildew on fabric items. If you store liquids, dedicate one shelf and add a tray to contain spills.
Bin sizing and packing efficiency
The bin fit model uses floor division across width and depth to avoid optimistic “partial bin” layouts. Packing efficiency accounts for irregular shapes like sprayer wands, coiled hoses, and plant ties. Start with 80–90% fill for mixed inventory and drop to 70% if you frequently rotate seasonal supplies. Standardizing bin footprints improves stacking and simplifies labeling.
Material coverage and waste allowance
Board coverage is based on total shelf area, plus a support allowance, then increased by the waste percentage. Waste increases with angled cuts, edge banding, and when you optimize for appearance rather than yield. If your closet has many cutouts for pipes or wiring, raise waste to 15–20% for a safer estimate.
Cost planning and upgrade decisions
The estimate combines material coverage, basic hardware, finish level, and labor multiplier. Use it to compare scenarios rather than as a quote. Upgrades that typically improve longevity include sealed edges, moisture-resistant panels, stainless fasteners, and a dedicated rod for aprons and garden bags. When budgets are tight, prioritize better material near the floor where splashes and humidity are highest.
FAQs
1) Why does clearance reduce both width and depth?
Clearance protects airflow, avoids scraping walls, and leaves room for bulky tools. The planner subtracts clearance from depth and twice from width to reflect two side walls.
2) What bin fill percentage should I use?
Use 85% for mixed gardening items. Choose 70–80% for odd shapes, frequent rotation, or if you dislike tightly packed bins. Choose 90–95% for uniform boxed items.
3) How accurate is the cost estimate?
It is a planning estimate based on adjustable rates and multipliers. Replace the default rates with local supplier pricing and confirm hardware choices for a quote-level figure.
4) Can I plan without bins and still use shelves?
Yes. Set bin dimensions as needed, or keep shelves as the main organizer. Bins mainly improve labeling, stacking, and small-parts control for seeds and fittings.
5) Why are rods included in a garden organizer?
Rods help dry gloves, store aprons, hang spray bottles by handle, and keep lightweight bags accessible. One short rod can prevent clutter on shelves.
6) What should I change for humid or wet locations?
Increase clearance slightly, choose sealed edges or moisture-resistant panels, and keep liquids on a tray. Consider adding ventilation holes and avoid cardboard storage near floors.