A well-designed wardrobe makes a difference in your daily routine, saves space, keeps clothing organised, and looks stunning in your home. However, deciding between a built-in, walk-in, or sliding wardrobe can be challenging when each option offers practical benefits.
The right custom wardrobe design will depend on the size and layout of your room, the amount and type of clothing you need to store, your available floor space, and your personal preferences for organisation, accessibility, materials, and overall interior style.
Built-In Wardrobes: Best for Space Efficiency
Built-in wardrobes are usually installed in the room’s exact size. Unlike standard furniture, they utilise every inch of the available space, creating a beautiful and highly functional storage system.
Modern built in wardrobe designs can be customised to suit almost any bedroom, including rooms with sloping ceilings, awkward angles, alcoves, or limited floor space.
Pros of Built-In Wardrobes
The main advantage of built-in wardrobes is the ability to maximise the storage while minimising the footprint. Every part of the wardrobe is designed to fit the exact size of the room, so you can plan the organisation based on your belongings rather than the other way around.
Built-in wardrobes can include:
- Full-length hanging sections
- Double rails for extra storage
- Adjustable shelves
- Internal drawers
- Shoe storage
- Overhead storage
- Pull-out accessories
- Lighting
Additionally, you can customise the exterior to complement the room’s décor. Handleless designs create a sleek modern look, while shaker doors add style and character to traditional homes.
When to Choose a Built-In Wardrobe
A built-in wardrobe is a great choice if you want ample storage while keeping the furniture footprint small. It is a fantastic option for standardised bedroom sizes, as well as children’s rooms, guest bedrooms, and other small spaces where a standard wardrobe would be too large.
Since a built-in wardrobe becomes a permanent fixture in the room, it will also help create a cohesive look.
Walk-In Wardrobes: The Premium Storage Solution
A walk-in wardrobe is a luxury in any home. It provides extra space to organise clothing, footwear, and accessories while creating a stunning feature in the bedroom.
However, a walk-in wardrobe requires a lot of space, so it is necessary to plan the layout carefully.
Pros of Walk-In Wardrobes
A walk-in wardrobe allows you to store more clothes and accessories while creating a luxurious atmosphere. The storage can be distributed throughout the room, utilising all available space. Depending on the size of the wardrobe, you can also include:
- Open hanging sections
- Full-height cabinetry
- Glass display cabinets
- Drawer islands
- Dressing benches
- Shoe walls
- Jewellery storage
- Mirrors and dressing areas
- Lighting
A well-designed walk-in wardrobe will also let you see your clothes and accessories at a glance, making organisation and selection easier.
How Much Space Do I Need for a Walk-In Wardrobe?
The wardrobe should be large enough to comfortably store all your belongings while providing enough space to move around. If you plan to utilise both sides of the wardrobe for storage, make sure there is enough clearance so that the doors can open without obstruction.
In a small bedroom, a walk-in wardrobe will consume too much space, making the room feel cramped. In this case, a built-in wardrobe will provide extra storage without compromising the room’s size and layout.
A walk-in wardrobe is best suited for a master bedroom, a separate dressing area, or a renovation where the room can be redesigned around the wardrobe.
Sliding Door Wardrobes: A Modern, Space-Saving Option
Sliding door wardrobes are an excellent choice if you have limited space but still want to enjoy the benefits of a large wardrobe. The sliding mechanism allows the doors to open in one direction, so they do not take up any additional space.
Custom sliding wardrobes can be stunning and highly functional while utilising the available space to the absolute maximum. They can also be finished in a wide variety of materials, including wood, glass, and mirror panels.
Why Choose Sliding Doors for Your Wardrobe?
Sliding doors are the best choice for small bedrooms, apartments, and other places with limited space. Mirrored panels also create the illusion of a larger room.
Other advantages of sliding wardrobe doors include:
- No swing space required
- Sleek modern appearance
- Increased access to wardrobe storage
- Variety of panel materials and finishes
- Optional full-length mirrors
- Can be installed in floor-to-ceiling wardrobes
What to Know Before You Choose Sliding Doors
Since sliding doors open sideways, you will not be able to see the entire wardrobe at once. Additionally, the wardrobe mechanism requires precise measurements and expert installation.
The interior layout should also be planned carefully, so the doors do not block access to wardrobe accessories. For example, a sliding door will not allow you to open a drawer or a pull-out accessory if it is on the other side.
Sliding wardrobe doors are most effective when the interior and doors are designed as a single unit.
How Room Size and Layout Affect Your Wardrobe Design
Room size is only one consideration when designing a custom wardrobe. The location of windows and doors, electrical outlets, skirting boards, ceiling design, and other furniture will also impact the design.
A bespoke wardrobe design will take these factors into account, ensuring that the final result looks great and is easy to use.
Wardrobe Design in a Small Bedroom
In a small bedroom, it is necessary to make the most out of the available space. A floor-to-ceiling wardrobe will provide extra storage for seasonal clothing, shoes, and other accessories.
Sliding doors are the best choice if you want to place a bed, a desk, or a bedside table close to the wardrobe. Light-coloured panels and mirrors will also help make the room appear larger.
Wardrobe Design in Medium Bedrooms
A medium-sized bedroom provides more flexibility, so you can choose between sliding or hinged wardrobe doors based on your preferences and the room’s layout.
A built-in wardrobe can utilise an entire wall, leaving plenty of space for other furniture. The interior layout can be planned based on your clothing and accessory storage needs.
Wardrobe Design in Large Bedrooms
Large bedrooms can accommodate a floor-to-ceiling built-in wardrobe, a walk-in storage area, or a combination of both. The extra space also means that you can include display cabinets, a dressing desk, a wardrobe seat, or other features.
It is also essential to ensure that the wardrobe is appropriately sized in relation to the bedroom’s other elements. Large wardrobes in a big bedroom can still be overwhelming.
Wardrobe Design in a Shared Bedroom
A shared wardrobe should be divided according to the storage needs of each occupant. It is not enough to provide equal square footage since people usually store different types of clothing and accessories. One person may need more full-length hanging space, while another may benefit from additional drawers or shelves.
It is also necessary to create storage zones within the wardrobe so that everyday items are easy to access.
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, from choosing materials and layout to expert installation.
Get in touch with the Tuska Kitchen team at tuskakitchensjoinery.com.au
Internal Wardrobe Fittings That Make a Real Difference
The appearance of a wardrobe is important, but its internal fittings ultimately determine its functionality. A beautifully designed wardrobe can become unusable if it does not have the right fittings for your belongings.
Before designing your custom wardrobe, it is a good idea to sort your clothes, shoes, and accessories to determine your storage needs. This will help you decide how much hanging, folded, and drawer storage you will need.
Double Rails
Double rails allow you to utilise the wardrobe space to the absolute maximum. They are perfect for storing shirts, skirts, dresses, and other clothing that does not require full-length hanging.
Adjustable Shelves
Adjustable shelves are another excellent way to make the most out of your wardrobe. They can be spaced according to your needs, providing storage for folded clothes, handbags, boxes, and other items.
Internal Drawers
Internal drawers can help you free up space in your bedroom by replacing a standard chest of drawers. They can also be used to store smaller clothing items, accessories, and personal belongings.
Shoe Storage
Shoe storage is another essential part of a wardrobe, so it is important to choose the right option for your needs. Shoe shelves, angled racks, and pull-out trays can help you organise your footwear collection.
Pull-Out Accessories
Pull-out trouser racks, tie organisers, belt storage, and laundry baskets can help you utilise narrow sections of your wardrobe. They also provide additional storage space without taking up valuable hanging room.
Integrated Lighting
LED strip lighting can help you see the contents of your wardrobe, especially if you have deep shelves or overhead storage. You can also choose between standard and sensor-activated lighting, which will turn on as soon as you open the wardrobe door.
The best wardrobe layout will depend on your personal preferences and the items you need to store. It is not about having the most shelves and drawers, but being able to access your belongings easily and store them in an organised manner.
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.