Renovations aren’t the exclusive domain of kitchens and bathrooms. If you’re lucky enough to have the space and budget for a custom wardrobe they can add an extra touch of elegance to your home, and a convenient amount of storage space. 

Wardrobes may seem like a simple design project but a lot of thought needs to be given to how you will use the space and its overall appearance. 

Here are some important items you need to consider when designing a custom wardrobe.   

Douglas Moxon, Head of Design

 

 

Image credit: Home Design Elements

Determine your storage needs

The simplest way to figure out your spatial needs is to gather up all your wardrobe items and decide whether you’re going to keep everything. If you have something you haven’t worn in over a year, it may be time to throw it out. On the other hand, if you’re planning to add to your wardrobe collection you may need a bigger space.

Consider how you will best use the space, will you need room to change? Space to lay out clothes?  

It also helps to think about the types of items you’re going to be storing – shirts, shoes, socks, underwear, accessories as these all have their own storage needs. 

Tip: You can store, or even vacuum seal, seasonal items out of sight and rotate them with your on-display items in-between seasons.

 

 

Image credit: hotelresidencia.com

Lighting!

When there is an absence of natural light, well-planned lighting can be useful but also shouldn’t take up a significant portion of your budget.

Tip: Use spot lights to adjust the angle that you can view the garment from.

 

 

Image credit: Maple & Grey UK

A mirror is useful if you have space

Even if you don’t have the wall space or you only have built-in wardrobes, use the internal side of your door as a mirror. These are not only functional but can make the space feel larger, too.

 

 

Image Credit: Yodezeen Architects

Customise your storage

For every garment type, there is a storage solution. Everyday items like shoes and jackets can be placed on an open book shelf or hanging rack. 

Less frequently used items make space above your hanging racks to store things like hats and use drawers for belts, ties etc. 

If budget is an issue you can use open shelves rather than drawers to stack garments like jumpers.   

Tip: Folded clothes average 300mm by 350mm. Use this as a guide when planning your shelving.

 

 

Image credit: homedesign.com

Link your cabinetry style and colour with the rest of your home

For maximum effect cabinetry should flow throughout your home. Your wardrobe should connect with the overall style of your home. The colour and composition of your chosen cabinetry will reflect the look and feel of your home. 

 

 

Image credit: Lignum Elite

Include a dressing island/functional sitting area

If you have the space, add a dressing island or seating area in the centre of your wardrobe. 

A large ottoman can serve as both, a place where you can lay out your clothes and try on shoes. 

Choose an island or ottoman that fits your space – a narrow bench works best for single aisle walk-ins while a round ottoman is better suited to a large, open space.

Tip: Choose a storage ottoman for added convenience.

 

 

Image credit: zappdesign.com

Think about including specialised sections like a vanity

Your walk-in doesn’t have to be limited to clothing, you can add a vanity, too. And it doesn’t need to take up extra space either.

The key components include:

• A countertop with drawers to store your make-up 
• A mirror with dedicated lighting – use a lighting bar
• A stool – this can also serve as a step-up to reach higher places  

Still not sure about how to best use your wardrobe space? Leave it to the experts. 

For more information about our custom cabinetry design services or to book a design consultation, call 1300 450 320.

If you’re looking for further inspiration and ideas for your wardrobe, signup to our newsletter or connect with us on Instagram and Facebook to stay up to date with the latest design trends.