A walk in wardrobe should make dressing easier and allow items to be seen and accessed in relation to the floor space they occupy. Bigger is not always better. A properly fitted custom solution begins with exact measurements, realistic clearances and an honest assessment of the belongings to be stored rather than a showroom image.
This guide covers the essentials of marking out the footprint, comparing layout options, defining storage zones and avoiding the details that create daily storage frustration.
Minimum Space Requirements for a Walk-In Wardrobe
There is no hard and fast rule for minimum sizes for a walk in wardrobe because the requirements are set by the number of walls that can be fitted with cabinetry, the opening mechanism of the storage units, the ease of movement in the space and the depth of hanging sections. As a rule of thumb, standard depth of any hanging storage is 550–600 mm, which means that the width of a walk in wardrobe should always be measured from the storage area plus the free aisle. If you intend to store shoes, this rule also applies to shoe storage cabinets.
As a rule of thumb, always measure a minimum of 900 mm for a free circulation space for one person, with 1,000–1,200 mm being more comfortable for larger items of furniture or when there are opposing drawers that need to open fully. This means that a single row of storage cabinets needs to be at least 1,500 mm wide — with 600 mm for storage and 900 mm for circulation. Storage on two walls typically needs to be at least 2,100 mm wide, but a bigger size is always better in this case.
Before measuring anything else, be sure to mark out the entire room and take account of the ceiling height, skirting boards, door clearances and any windows, power points or AC vents that may need to be incorporated in the design. If there is a plan for a central island, seating or a special ottoman, be sure to check the clearances on all sides, as these will also impact circulation. The last thing anyone wants is a walk in wardrobe where you have to lean sideways to get past a cabinet.
U-Shaped vs L-Shaped vs Single-Wall Layouts
The best option is always the one that provides the best storage in the given space, but the shape of the room, the location of the entrance and the position of any windows will have a big impact on the options available. Before finalizing on a design, always mark out every cabinet in scale and indicate the open position of any sliding or hinged furniture. This will show where storage is compromised by the movement of the cabinetry itself.
Layout | Best For | Main Benefit | What To Consider |
U-shaped | Big and reasonably square rooms | Makes the most of the space using three walls | Corner clearances and the width of the aisle |
L-shaped | Medium rooms, or ones with windows or doors set oddly | Balances storage and circulation | The inside corner and the interaction between hanging and shelving |
Single wall | Narrow rooms, passageways or small dressing areas | Allows for better movement and vision | Whether one wall can accommodate all the necessary hanging, drawers and shelves |
A U-shaped layout is best when there is sufficient space on three walls, but an L-shape is always a good option if the extra space can be used for a mirror, bench or window. A single wall option may provide less storage, but it can make a bigger room more functional by leaving the second wall completely clear.
Storage Zones: Hanging, Shelving, Drawers, and Accessories
The best way to begin is to take stock of the clothes and set aside a rough allocation for each category. How many long-sleeved, short-sleeved, knee-length, ankle-length and other types of dresses, skirts, trousers, shirts and sports wear do you have? What about footwear and bags? How many everyday items and how many are only worn occasionally? Once this list is ready, a custom walk in wardrobe or custom walk in closet design can begin with the placement of the storage zones in accordance with the estimated quantities. A good rule of thumb is to place the items that are worn most often within easy reach and leave the high places for seasonal storage.
Hanging
Use double rails for lighter items such as shirts, skirts and dress trousers, and leave a deep section for long dresses, coats and others. Always measure the hanging height in relation to your own height and the clothes you intend to hang, as a standard 800 mm height from the floor is typically too low for most.
Shelving
Keep the most worn folded clothes within easy reach, and use adjustable shelves to allow for the ever-changing requirements of footwear, bags and knitwear.
Drawers
Make sure that everyday underwear and nightwear are stored within easy reach, and leave enough space for the drawers to open fully without impeding access to the wardrobe entrance or other cabinetry. Always use internal dividers to prevent smaller items from getting mixed up at the bottom. Use open storage for larger accessories that need to be seen and accessed immediately.
Accessories
Add the extras only if they address a specific need, and leave plenty of open space, as a walk in wardrobe is always more functional without the clutter. Use pull out rails, trouser shelves, jewellery trays and belt dividers to make the most of your storage space. Valet rods and angled shelves are also very useful, especially for shoes. As always, make sure that all additional cabinetry is placed within easy reach and does not impede circulation.
The best organisation is always achieved by placing the most worn items within easy reach and making sure that everything else is stored within eye and arm’s distance. Heavier items should be placed below shoulder height, and upper shelves and cabinets can be used for seasonal storage and overflow. Finally, make sure that the deep storage is utilised, as vertical space is wasted in any wardrobe that has a corner section that cannot be accessed.
Lighting and Mirror Placement Tips
Lighting is always important in a walk in wardrobe because it determines the colour accuracy of the garments and the visibility inside the storage units. A single light in the middle of the ceiling may be nice and bright, but it will cast shadows over the clothes, so it is best to use general house lighting in combination with cabinet-specific solutions. LED strips along the inside edge of shelves or cabinets can make a big difference in deep storage, as can accent lighting in the eaves of a high ceiling.
Use warm white lighting that does not create blue tones, as this will make the garments look unnatural. Make sure that switches are always placed within easy reach of the wardrobe entrance, or use smart sensors that turn off the lights as you leave. Always plan any electrical work in advance, as retrofitting may create an eyesore due to exposed wiring, or may require adjustments to the cabinets and joinery that have already been made.
A full length mirror always requires a certain amount of floor space to allow the shopper to step back and assess the fit and appearance of the garments. It can be a free-standing unit, inset in a cabinet door or attached to a sliding mechanism if the space is insufficient. Some luxury custom walk in closets also use a second mirror, typically set on a vanity desk, to allow for greater detail when getting ready.
A custom wardrobe is made to suit your home rather than the other way around. Whether you want to maximise the storage in a small bedroom, create a luxurious walk-in wardrobe, or design a stunning sliding wardrobe, we will help you bring your vision to life. We at Tuska Kitchens & Joinery can assist you with every step of the wardrobe design and construction process.
Get in touch with the Tuska Kitchen team at tuskakitchensjoinery.com.au
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Designing a Walk-In Wardrobe
The majority of issues with wardrobes are the result of designing them as a collection of cabinets, with many people failing to consider their actual use in the everyday life. Doors, drawers, people and items stored all take up space, and a scaled drawing always shows the problem areas before the materials and finishes are committed to.
Tight aisle
While storage is always important, a walk in wardrobe is only practical if the doors can open fully and the drawers can be accessed without having to move large items of furniture.
Copycat layout
Equal sections of hanging, shelving and drawers rarely work because these items vary dramatically in the volume they occupy. Always plan storage in accordance with the estimated inventory.
Bad use of corners
Placing railings and shelves in opposing cabinets creates unusable space. Always specify how the internal corners will be accessed and used.
Too many shelves
Adjustable shelving makes it much easier to reconfigure storage in accordance with the ever-changing inventory.
Neglecting air circulation and lighting
A dark and stuffy wardrobe is rarely useful, so always leave space for natural light and use layered lighting to prevent shadows.
Making style choices before functionality
No matter how beautiful the finish, a walk in wardrobe with poor circulation and unusable joinery will never be practical.
Planning electrical details at the last minute
Power points, LED strips, switches and mirrors always require special consideration, so any details in this category should be planned before the finish and joinery are chosen.
Plan out a rough layout in scale and visualise your morning routine. Imagine opening the wardrobe door, browsing the clothes, opening and closing drawers, checking your appearance in the mirror and putting away the items you have not used. This simple exercise usually highlights the problem areas and allows them to be resolved before the actual fitting begins.
FAQ
Built-In or Walk-In Wardrobe: Which Is Better?
There is no definitive answer since both wardrobe types have their own advantages. In general, a built-in wardrobe offers better value for money, while a walk-in wardrobe is more spacious and luxurious. The final decision will depend on the size of the room and the available floor space.
Are Sliding Wardrobes Suitable for Small Bedrooms?
Sliding wardrobes are a great option for small bedrooms since they save space by not requiring a swing area. This means that you can place your bed, bedside tables, and other furniture right next to the wardrobe.
Can a Custom Wardrobe Be Built Around an Awkward Ceiling or Wall?
Yes, a custom wardrobe can be built around almost any architectural feature. Our joiners can measure and install the wardrobe so that it fits around your home’s unique details.
Should a Wardrobe Extend to the Ceiling?
A wardrobe that extends to the ceiling will provide extra storage space, so it is a great option if you have a large collection of belongings. Higher storage is also easier to access and less likely to collect dust.
How Should I Plan the Inside of My Wardrobe?
It is essential to sort your clothes and accessories to determine your storage needs. You will also need to measure how much space you need for full-length, short, and folded clothing, as well as shoes and other items.
Can Lighting Be Installed in a Custom Wardrobe?
Yes, we can install LED strip lighting in your custom wardrobe to help you see the contents. Sensor-activated lighting is also an excellent option that will only be on when the wardrobe is open.
Can I Choose the Colours, Materials, and Door Style?
Yes, we can help you select the materials and colours that will suit your home. You can also choose the type of wardrobe doors, handles, and internal fittings.