To the pp re: closets, we did have one when I was younger and in an apartment when older. Here in N. CA it's mostly to hang your hoodie, umbrella and vacuum cleaner in. Growing up, quite a few friends including our first house had the closet in the beginning of the hallway. Also jackets, vacuum cleaner. Shoes have always been bedroom. Right now, most of my shoes are in the closet and the three I wear most, tennis, flip flops and slippers are next to my bed.