Designing a walk-in wardrobe? Here’s what you need to know to make it functional, stylish, and efficient:
- Space Planning: Measure carefully and divide into upper, middle, and lower zones for better organisation.
- Storage Options: Use adjustable shelving, pull-out drawers, and custom hanging systems to maximise space.
- Lighting: Combine ambient, task, and accent lighting for a well-lit and practical space.
- Materials: Choose durable materials like solid wood, MDF, or melamine, depending on your budget and needs.
- Mirrors: Add full-length and hinged mirrors to enhance functionality and create an illusion of more space.
- Dressing Space: Include a seating area, vanity, and central island for added comfort and usability.
- Accessories Storage: Use velvet-lined drawers, pull-out racks, and hooks to keep small items organised.
- Custom Solutions: Consider bespoke designs for tricky spaces, ensuring every inch is utilised.
Quick Overview
| Feature | Key Idea | Benefits |
|---|---|---|
| Space Planning | Divide into zones | Better organisation and access |
| Storage Options | Adjustable shelving, pull-out drawers | Maximises storage capacity |
| Lighting | Ambient, task, and accent lighting | Improves visibility and aesthetics |
| Materials | Solid wood, MDF, melamine | Durable and budget-friendly options |
| Mirrors | Full-length and hinged mirrors | Practical and space-enhancing |
| Dressing Space | Seating, vanity, central island | Adds comfort and functionality |
| Accessories Storage | Velvet-lined drawers, hooks, racks | Keeps small items tidy and protected |
| Custom Solutions | Tailored designs for tricky spaces | Utilises every inch effectively |
Start with accurate measurements, plan your zones, and focus on lighting and materials to build a wardrobe that’s both practical and stylish.
How to Design your Dream Walk-In Closet (PRO Organization + Storage Tips!)
1. Space Planning and Layout
An organised layout helps you make the most of your storage space while keeping your belongings easy to access.
Measuring and Space Analysis
Getting accurate measurements is key. Experts recommend a minimum width of 2.1 metres and a depth of about 3 metres for a comfortable walk-in wardrobe setup. A walkway of around 90 centimetres ensures smooth movement and access.
Take note of the overall dimensions, including length, width, and height. Don’t forget to account for skirting boards, wall thickness, and any obstructions like doors, windows, sockets, or radiators. If the ceiling height varies, make sure to document that too.
These measurements will help you map out storage zones effectively.
Storage Zone Planning
Creating storage zones improves organisation and makes it easier to access your items. Here are some suggested hanging heights for common clothing types:
| Garment Type | Recommended Height |
|---|---|
| Shirts, Tops, Jackets | 106 cm |
| Long Dresses, Coats | 178 cm |
| Men’s Suit Jackets | 128 cm |
| Trousers, Skirts | 86 cm |
| Children’s Clothing | 71 cm per level |
Divide your wardrobe into three main zones:
- Upper Zone: Use the space above 180 cm for seasonal items or things you don’t use often. Adjustable shelving can be useful to adapt to changing storage needs.
- Middle Zone: This is the most accessible area (90–180 cm) and should hold your everyday clothing. Combine hanging rails and shelves to keep frequently worn items within easy reach.
- Lower Zone: Perfect for shoes, boots, and storage boxes. Pull-out drawers or clear bins make it easier to see and grab what you need.
If you’re sharing the wardrobe, allocate specific areas for each person. According to Better Homes & Gardens, clear plastic bins are a great way to organise additional storage, letting you see the contents without opening them.
For rooms with slanted ceilings or unusual shapes, install shelves where the ceiling meets half-walls. This turns awkward spaces into practical storage for shorter items.
2. Storage Options and Systems
Storage Components
Start with hanging systems: use long rods for formal wear and coats, while short rods work well for shirts and lighter garments.
Wire systems allow air to circulate, helping to minimise mould growth. On the other hand, solid wood or metal rails provide added strength and a polished look. Companies like Sharps specialise in custom solutions that fit tricky spaces like sloping ceilings or eaves.
Key storage components to consider include:
- Adjustable shelving: Easily change shelf heights to suit seasonal needs.
- Pull-out drawers: Perfect for folded clothes and delicate items.
- Frame dividers: Make the most of vertical space.
- Built-in hampers: Keep laundry neatly hidden.
Pairing these systems with thoughtful item placement can make your storage even more functional.
Item Organisation Methods
Once your layout and storage zones are set, placing items strategically can make a big difference.
Organise items based on how often you use them and their category. Fine-tune your zones by prioritising accessibility for frequently used items.
| Storage Zone | Ideal Contents | Recommended Storage Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Upper Zone | Seasonal items, luggage | High shelves, storage boxes |
| Eye Level | Daily wear, business attire | Hanging rods, adjustable shelves |
| Lower Zone | Shoes, accessories | Pull-out racks, tilted displays |
For accessories, try adding:
- Velvet-lined drawers for jewellery.
- Slide-out racks for scarves, ties, and belts.
- Tilted shoe shelves for quick and easy access.
To keep everything tidy, use drawer dividers, clear storage boxes, and group similar items together. This approach ensures a clutter-free and efficient space.
3. Lighting Solutions
Lighting Types and Uses
Lighting can turn a simple wardrobe into a practical dressing area. For smaller wardrobes, aim for around 200–400 lumens, while larger spaces need more than 1,000 lumens. Using layers of light ensures everything is well-lit and easy to see.
Ambient Lighting
Overhead fixtures provide general light. Look for a colour temperature between 3,500K and 4,000K to create a neutral white light, which helps you see colours accurately. LED lights are a great choice – they use less energy and stay cool.
Task Lighting
Task lighting focuses on specific areas, making it easier to find what you need. Options include:
- LED strips under cabinets to light up drawers
- Vertical lights along wardrobe frames
- Motion-activated sensors for convenience
"It’s vital to consider both interior millwork lighting and ambient lighting when designing a closet… When lighting is overhead, and a homeowner is standing between that lighting and their clothes, the clothes would be in shadow, but if they incorporate lighting into the millwork itself, their clothes will never be in shadow." – Kaitlyn Murphy, Philadelphia-based designer
Accent Lighting
Accent lighting adds style and functionality. Here are some choices and their benefits:
| Lighting Type | Best For | Key Benefits |
|---|---|---|
| LED Strips | Shelf edges and rails | Brightens stored items and eliminates shadows |
| Recessed Spots | Display areas | Highlights specific spots and reduces shadows |
| Smart Lighting | Entire wardrobe | Allows control via app and automatic features |
Light Positioning Guide
Place vertical lights at the front of your wardrobe to evenly light hanging clothes. For shelves, use LED strips under each one to remove shadows and showcase accessories.
"Vertical lighting on both sides allows the area to be evenly lit if the beam angle meets in the middle and the stretch isn’t too wide… This is also the most flexible option, as shelves and rods can be rearranged and therefore not interfere with the lights." – Kaitlyn Murphy
Natural Light Integration
If possible, include natural light in your wardrobe design. As Kaitlyn Murphy explains: "Natural lighting in a dressing room is always a plus because, after all, you will likely be leaving your home and stepping into the daylight. So, deciphering between your navy and black shoes is important."
For added flexibility, install dimmer switches or smart lighting to adjust brightness as needed. These lighting ideas can be combined with your material choices in the next section.
4. Materials Selection
Material Types and Uses
The materials you choose for your walk-in wardrobe play a big role in both how it looks and how it performs.
High-End Materials
Solid wood is a popular choice for premium wardrobes, especially hardwoods like maple, cherry, and oak. These woods are known for their durability and timeless appeal. However, they can be sensitive to changes in humidity, so it’s important to manage moisture levels carefully.
| Material | Best For | Key Considerations |
|---|---|---|
| Solid Wood | Long-term investment | £££ – highly durable; needs humidity control |
| Plywood | Structural elements | ££ – resists moisture; strong enough for heavy loads |
| MDF | Painted finishes | £ – smooth surface; suitable for low-moisture areas |
| Melamine | Modern designs | £ – scratch-resistant; available in various finishes |
Practical Solutions
Engineered materials, like MDF and plywood, offer a good balance between cost, durability, and maintenance, making them practical for most wardrobes.
Contemporary Options
Modern designs often mix materials for a stylish and functional look. For example, glass can be used for display areas, while metal adds a sleek, industrial touch. Pairing these materials with energy-efficient LED lighting creates a polished, contemporary feel. These combinations are not only visually appealing but also easy to maintain over time.
Care and Longevity
Once you’ve selected the right materials, keeping them in good condition is the next step.
Durability Factors
Solid wood wardrobes, while more expensive upfront, can last for decades with proper care. On the other hand, melamine surfaces are highly resistant to scratches and are simple to clean.
Maintenance Tips
Each material has its own upkeep requirements. Solid wood benefits from occasional polishing and consistent humidity control to prevent warping or cracking. Melamine surfaces need nothing more than regular cleaning to stay in great shape. Glass panels should be dusted and wiped to remove smudges, while metal parts need periodic cleaning to avoid rust and maintain their shine.
Environmental Factors
The location of your wardrobe matters when picking materials. If it’s near a bathroom or an external wall, moisture-resistant options like plywood or Wood Plastic Composite (WPC) are better suited. For areas with direct sunlight, UV-resistant finishes can help protect against fading and wear.
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5. Mirror Placement
Mirror Positioning
Placing mirrors thoughtfully in your walk-in wardrobe can combine practicality with a touch of elegance.
Full-length mirrors work best in open areas where you can step back and see your entire outfit. Ricardo Jarjoura, FCI London’s lead architect, advises: "The best way to determine what type of mirror you need for your walk-in wardrobe is by figuring out the function of the space… If it’s sizable, you probably have an area for dressing in and a station where you can do hair and make-up, so you’ll need to plan accordingly".
| Mirror Type | Ideal Position | Primary Function |
|---|---|---|
| Full-Length | Open wall space, 1–1.5 m clearance | Full outfit view |
| Vanity Mirror | Above dressing table or counter | Hair and makeup |
| Shoe Mirror | Bottom of wardrobe island | Footwear check |
| Hinged Mirrors | Wardrobe doors | Flexible viewing angles |
Yasmin Chopin, an interior designer, highlights the importance of variety: "When designing a bespoke walk-in wardrobe, I always try to include an array of mirrors that allow a 360-degree view. No more looking over your shoulder to see if everything is as it should be – instead, move around and watch your clothes move with you".
To get the best results, avoid placing mirrors where they might catch window glare, but try to use them to reflect natural light. Keep about 1 metre of clearance in front of full-length mirrors and consider combining fixed wall mirrors with hinged ones for more viewing flexibility.
Aside from their visual appeal, mirrors can brighten the room and make it feel more spacious.
Space-Making Effects
Mirrors are not just functional – they also help create the illusion of a larger, brighter wardrobe space.
Light Reflection Well-placed mirrors can significantly improve lighting. Senior Interior Designer Cristina Chirila explains: "Correctly positioning your mirrors is a strategic exercise and really just takes a bit of common sense… Think about your space holistically and decide on what best works for both you and your decor aspirations".
Creating Depth Wendy Newman, another interior designer, stresses: "A large mirror is vital – both for scrutinising your look and for increasing the feeling of space in what is often a relatively small room".
Here are some tips to maximise the effect of mirrors:
- Reflect appealing parts of the room, not clutter.
- Add mirrored panels to wardrobe doors for a sense of depth.
- Use mirrors on the lower sections of islands for checking shoes.
- Avoid infinite reflections by carefully angling mirrors.
For compact walk-in wardrobes, mirror-finished doors are a smart choice. They help bounce light around the room while keeping storage practical and efficient.
6. Dressing Space Design
Dressing Area Basics
A thoughtfully designed dressing area adds both practicality and a touch of elegance to your wardrobe space. By combining functionality with comfort, you can transform a walk-in wardrobe into a stylish and efficient dressing zone. Key elements to include are comfortable seating for trying on shoes or outfits, a dedicated vanity area for grooming, good task lighting to ensure accurate colour perception, and accessible storage for everyday essentials.
For optimal use, place your dressing table near natural light. This setup provides a clear, well-lit surface and ensures proper mirror placement for your grooming needs.
Once you’ve covered the basics, you can enhance your dressing area with additional features for added comfort and personality.
Comfort and Style Details
Adding personal touches and practical features can make a big difference in both usability and aesthetics. Use layered lighting – ambient lighting for overall brightness, task lighting for grooming, and accent lighting to highlight specific features. This approach ensures your space is well-lit and visually appealing. Streamlined accessory storage can also make daily routines easier.
For an extra touch, think about including a central island with drawers and a countertop. This not only provides extra storage but also serves as a focal point for outfit planning. Make sure the surface remains clear and accessible for grooming and organising your items.
7. Accessories Storage
Purpose-Built Storage
When planning storage for accessories, it’s important to protect your valuables while keeping them easily accessible. Modern wardrobes often include compartments designed specifically for certain items.
For example, velvet-lined drawers are perfect for delicate jewellery. According to Closet America, "Velvet-lined compartments protect delicate necklaces, bracelets, and rings while keeping them neatly organised". These drawers often come with adjustable dividers to prevent tangling or scratching.
California Closets offers Everstyle Drawers, which include configurable compartments for better organisation. Their glass-front drawers let you see everything at a glance, while leather-lined shoe drawers keep footwear free from dust. As they explain, "Dividers allow for superior organisation within a drawer, ensuring the space doesn’t get too cluttered or crowded".
Here are some recommended storage solutions for different accessories:
| Accessory Type | Recommended Storage Solution | Key Benefits |
|---|---|---|
| Shoes | 10-tier rack system | Fits up to 50 pairs; can split into smaller sections |
| Jewellery | Velvet-lined drawer inserts | Prevents tarnishing and keeps pieces separate |
| Belts/Ties | Pull-out racks | Makes items easy to find and access |
| Scarves | Hooks or bars | Prevents creases and saves space |
Once larger accessories are sorted, it’s time to focus on organising smaller items.
Small Item Organisation
Smaller accessories require a bit more attention to detail. Adding LED-lit glass shelving can elevate your storage by turning it into a stylish display while improving visibility.
To keep everything in order and protect delicate items:
- Use textured inserts, dividers, or baskets to organise rings, watches, glasses, and other small items.
- Mount organisers with individual pockets to keep items separate and easy to locate.
For a well-organised wardrobe, divide it into zones for clothing, accessories, and folded items. This approach ensures every item has its place, making it easier to choose outfits and maintain order.
8. Mr. Wardrobe Custom Solutions
Mr. Wardrobe takes personalised storage to the next level with its tailored wardrobe solutions, available across the UK.
Design and Installation Services
The process starts with a free consultation for clients within a 45-minute radius. During this session, experts help visualise your dream storage space.
Here’s a breakdown of their three-step approach:
- Design Consultation
Visit the showroom to explore a variety of materials, colours, and finishes. Within a week, the design team provides detailed elevations and 3D renderings of your wardrobe layout. - Manufacturing Process
Every wardrobe is crafted in-house using high-quality materials, ensuring durability and precision. - Professional Installation
Once the design is approved, installation is completed within 2–3 weeks. As Bea V. shared, "The installation team was professional, tidy, and detail-oriented".
This streamlined process ensures a seamless experience from concept to completion.
Custom Wardrobe Benefits
Clients consistently praise the attention to detail and tailored approach. Compared to standard wardrobes, Mr. Wardrobe’s custom solutions stand out:
| Feature | Standard Wardrobe | Mr. Wardrobe Custom Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Space Utilisation | Fixed dimensions | Floor-to-ceiling design for maximum efficiency |
| Material Choice | Limited options | Wide selection of finishes |
| Storage Layout | Pre-determined | Fully customisable to suit your needs |
| Installation | Self-assembly or basic fitting | Professional installation with a guarantee |
Some standout features include:
- High-Quality Materials: Built to last with premium materials.
- Customised Design: Adjustable shelving, integrated lighting, and more.
- Space Efficiency: Designed to fit any room size or shape.
"Mr Wardrobe designed and installed a bespoke walk-in wardrobe for my newly built house. I was very happy with the service and the final product".
To make the most of your custom wardrobe, think about:
- Your clothing storage needs, including seasonal changes
- Space for accessories and footwear
- How it integrates with your room’s existing features
- Future storage flexibility
Conclusion
Creating a practical and stylish walk-in wardrobe comes down to incorporating a few essential elements that make your daily routine easier and maximise storage space. With careful planning and the right solutions, you can achieve a wardrobe that serves you well for years.
Here’s a quick breakdown of the key steps to guide your design process:
| Priority | Action Step | Key Consideration |
|---|---|---|
| Primary | Assess Your Space | Measure accurately, keeping architectural features in mind. |
| Secondary | Plan Your Storage | Determine the space required for hanging, folding, and storing accessories. |
| Tertiary | Design Lighting | Use a mix of ambient, task, and accent lighting for functionality and aesthetics. |
| Final | Consult a Professional | Get expert advice to refine and optimise your design. |
Don’t overlook ventilation – whether through vents or moisture-control solutions – to protect your clothing and keep everything in top condition. These practical steps, combined with expert input, will help you create a wardrobe that’s tailored to your needs.
No matter the size, a well-thought-out walk-in wardrobe blends functionality with style.
