Designing a walk in wardrobe that reflects your personal style and meets your storage needs can transform your daily routine into a luxurious experience. Experts at Silva Wardrobe understand that a well-organised and personalised wardrobe is more than just a storage space—it's an extension of your home and lifestyle. In this guide, we'll walk you through the steps to create a custom walk in wardrobe that combines functionality with elegance, catering to your specific requirements and aesthetic preferences.
By having a step-by-step manual, you’ll be knowledgeable and inspired to create a bespoke walk in wardrobes in Sydney that are stylish and practical. Let’s dive in!
Creating the perfect walk in wardrobe begins with a thorough understanding of your space and storage requirements. This step is crucial to ensure that your custom wardrobe not only fits seamlessly into your room but also accommodates all your belongings efficiently. Let’s walk through how to measure your space and figure out what you need, so your wardrobe works for your routine and looks how you want it to.
Measuring your walk in wardrobe space is about noting down wall lengths or ceiling heights and involves evaluating every physical aspect of the room that could influence layout, storage potential, and accessibility. You must consider the width and depth of the area and any architectural features. Remember that accurate measurements are the foundation for creating a functional and stylish storage area.
Here’s how to measure your walk in wardrobe:
1. Gather Your Tools:
2. Measure the Floor Space:
3. Account for Ceiling Height:
4. Consider Door Placement:
5. Assess Traffic Flow:
When personalising your walk in wardrobe, one of the most critical steps is identifying your unique storage needs. This process goes beyond simply counting how many shirts, dresses, or pairs of shoes you own. It involves carefully assessing your wardrobe habits and evaluating the types of accessories, footwear, and specialty items you need to store. Additionally, your storage needs should align with your lifestyle and daily routine. Considering these factors helps in designing a layout that maximises efficiency and accessibility.
Determine what items you need to store, like the following:
Designing the perfect walk in wardrobe is all about maximising space and tailoring it to fit your personal style and storage needs. In this step, you will be guided through the process of selecting the most efficient layout for your space, whether it be U-shaped or L-shaped, incorporating an island for added functionality, and deciding between open shelving and closed storage.
When planning your walk in wardrobe, the choice between a U-shaped or L-shaped layout plays a role in shaping how functional and personal the space will be. These two offer distinct benefits, and understanding the differences between them can help you decide based on available space, storage priorities, and daily routines.
U-Shaped Layout
A U-shaped layout is ideal for larger spaces, providing ample storage on three walls. This design maximises storage capacity and creates a sense of enclosure, making it feel like a personalised boutique. It offers extensive storage space, accommodating both hanging and shelving units. This layout also provides a balanced design with easy access to all areas of the wardrobe, making it great for separating different types of clothing and accessories.
But before having this, there are some considerations to remember, like it requires a larger room to avoid feeling cramped and may reduce central floor space, which makes it less suitable for smaller rooms.
L-Shaped Layout
An L-shaped layout is perfect for smaller or more rectangular spaces, utilising two walls to create an efficient storage area without overwhelming the room. It is an efficient use of corner space, allowing more room for movement. Also, it creates a more open feel, which can make smaller rooms feel larger. If you want some flexibility in design, this is a good option. However, this layout may offer less storage space compared to a U-shaped design.
Adding an island to your walk in wardrobe enhances storage and increases functionality. It offers a convenient surface for folding clothes, organising outfits, or sorting laundry. Remember that it requires sufficient space to ensure the island doesn't obstruct movement.
One of the most fundamental decisions to make early in the planning stage is whether to incorporate open shelving, closed storage, or a blend of both. This choice affects the overall functionality of your wardrobe and influences how your belongings are experienced within the space. The decision should be shaped by how you live, how you dress, and how you want your wardrobe to function day to day.
Open Shelving
Open shelving offers a modern and airy feel, making it easy to view and access your clothing and accessories. It provides a visual appeal that showcases your wardrobe items as part of the room's decor. Open shelving also enhances accessibility, which allows you to quickly find and retrieve items, encouraging organisation and tidiness. However, your things are exposed to dust and require regular cleaning.
Closed Storage
Closed storage options like cabinets and drawers maintain a neat and streamlined appearance, keeping items out of sight. This kind of storage protects your things from dust and sunlight and creates a clean, minimalist look. It’s suitable for storing seasonal items or personal belongings you prefer to keep hidden. But it limits visibility of stored items, potentially making them less accessible. If you want door swings or drawer pulls, it may require more space.
Creating a walk in wardrobe that not only meets your storage needs but also enhances the aesthetic appeal of your home involves making thoughtful decisions about materials and finishes. Every detail counts in crafting a space that reflects your personal style and complements your home's decor. Here’s how you can make informed choices when it comes to selecting materials and finishes for your customised wardrobe.
The choice of materials plays a role in achieving the overall look, feel, and longevity of the space. Homeowners are often drawn to a blend of wood, metal, and glass because each material brings unique qualities that reflect style preferences and practical requirements. The right material selection can transform your walk in wardrobe from a simple storage area into a statement of personal taste and lifestyle.
Wood
Wood is a classic choice for wardrobes, offering warmth and timeless elegance. When selecting wood, consider its grain, texture, and colour. Hardwoods like oak, walnut, and cherry provide durability and a rich appearance, while softer woods such as pine can offer a more rustic or contemporary feel. Consider the existing wood tones in your home to ensure a harmonious look.
Metal
Metal elements can introduce a sleek, modern edge to your wardrobe design. Whether it's through hardware, structural elements, or decorative accents, metal can enhance a contemporary or industrial aesthetic. Consider the finish of the metal—brushed, polished, or matte—to align with your design vision.
Glass
Incorporating glass into your wardrobe design can create an open, airy feel. Whether through mirrored doors, frosted panels, or clear shelving, glass can enhance visibility and add a touch of sophistication. It works well in modern and traditional settings, depending on the type of glass used.
Finishes and colours are more than just a design decision because they set the tone for your daily routine. A thoughtfully curated palette and well-chosen materials can transform your walk in wardrobe into a space that feels as good to be in as it looks, tailored to suit your unique lifestyle and design preferences.
Selecting the Right Finish
Your wardrobe’s finish sets the tone. The choice between matte, gloss, and natural wood finishes should be guided by your style preferences and the desired atmosphere of your wardrobe.
Choosing the Perfect Colour Palette
When selecting colours, consider the existing palette in your home to ensure cohesion. Neutral tones such as whites, greys, and beiges are versatile and timeless, while bold colours can make a statement if used thoughtfully.
Your walk in wardrobe lighting becomes a personal statement of taste, convenience, and comfort. Whether your goal is to mirror boutique-style glamour or simply create a highly functional dressing space that complements your home, lighting remains one of the most impactful tools in achieving your vision.
LED Strips
LED strips are a flexible lighting solution that can be installed under shelves, along hanging rails, or around mirrors. They offer energy efficiency and can be customised in terms of brightness and colour temperature.
Spotlights
Spotlights provide targeted lighting that can accentuate features such as display shelves or artwork within your wardrobe. They are ideal for highlighting specific areas and adding a layer of sophistication.
Ambient Lighting
Ambient lighting serves as the primary source of light, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. Consider incorporating dimmable options to adjust the intensity based on the time of day or occasion.
Creating a walk in wardrobe that meets your unique needs and preferences requires the thoughtful integration of various storage features. It is understandable that the key to an efficient and personalised wardrobe lies in its adaptability and functionality. Below, we explore essential storage features that can transform your space into an organised haven.
One of the most versatile storage solutions is adjustable shelving and racks. These components allow you to customise the layout of your wardrobe to accommodate a diverse range of clothing types and sizes. Whether you have a collection of long evening gowns, short jackets, or bulky sweaters, adjustable shelves and hanging rods offer the flexibility to modify the space as your wardrobe evolves.
Adjustable shelving is particularly beneficial for making the most of vertical space. By altering the height of shelves, you can store items like shoes in stackable boxes or neatly folded sweaters. Likewise, adjustable racks can be repositioned to hang longer or shorter garments, ensuring that every inch of your wardrobe is utilised efficiently.
Pull-out drawers are a game-changer when it comes to optimising storage for smaller items and accessories. These drawers provide a streamlined solution for storing items such as jewellery, watches, and sunglasses, keeping them organised and easily accessible. Consider incorporating dividers within the drawers to further categorise and protect delicate pieces.
Baskets are another fantastic addition, particularly for items like scarves, hats, and gloves that can easily become disorganised. Pull-out baskets offer a neat solution, allowing you to store these items in a way that is accessible and visually appealing. Opt for ones made from durable materials with a breathable design to keep your items fresh and in pristine condition.
For a truly personalised touch, custom accessories can be integrated into your wardrobe design. These features not only enhance functionality but also add a layer of luxury to your storage space. With tie racks and belt hangers, you can say goodbye to tangles and misplacements. These custom accessories keep your ties and belts neatly aligned and in full view, making it easy to select the perfect accessory for your outfit. Choose from various designs, including slide-out racks or fixed hangers, to suit your preferences.
For jewellery trays, customised ones offer a sophisticated solution for organising rings, bracelets, and necklaces. Opt for velvet-lined trays to protect delicate pieces and add an elegant touch to your wardrobe. Consider trays with multiple compartments to keep each piece separate and prevent tangling. Also, incorporating a pull-out ironing board into your wardrobe design is a practical addition to value convenience. This feature allows you to quickly and easily iron garments without the need for a separate ironing station. When not in use, the board can be neatly tucked away, maintaining the sleek appearance of your wardrobe.
Adding personal touches to your walk in wardrobe is where practicality meets personality because it transforms an ordinary storage area into a space that reflects your lifestyle and daily routines. Creating a walk in wardrobe that truly feels like your own requires attention to detail and personalisation, so in this step, we explore how to infuse your wardrobe with style, luxury, and technology to reflect your unique taste and lifestyle.
Full-length mirrors are an essential component of any well-designed walk in wardrobe. Not only do they provide the practical function of allowing you to view your outfit from head to toe, but they also add depth and light to the space. Consider installing mirrors on wardrobe doors or as standalone pieces. Opt for elegant frames that complement your overall design theme, be it modern, classic, or eclectic.
Adding artwork or personal photos is a wonderful way to infuse your wardrobe with personality. Select pieces that inspire you or evoke pleasant memories. You might opt for a statement art piece that ties the room together or a gallery wall of personal photos that bring warmth and character to the space. Remember, your walk in wardrobe should be a sanctuary that reflects your style and story.
To elevate your walk in wardrobe, consider incorporating luxurious finishes such as velvet-lined drawers. These protect delicate items like jewellery and silk scarves and add a tactile element of opulence. Custom cabinetry provides another opportunity to introduce luxury. Choose high-quality materials and finishes that resonate with your aesthetic—whether it's rich wood grains, high-gloss lacquers, or intricate bespoke detailing.
Remember that the small touches often make the biggest impact. Opt for high-end hardware such as brushed brass handles or crystal knobs to add a touch of elegance. These details can transform functional elements into stylish features that enhance the overall look and feel of your wardrobe.
Incorporating technology can enhance the functionality and luxury of your walk in wardrobe. Motion-sensor lighting is a smart solution that ensures your space is always well-lit when needed. This feature adds convenience and creates a sophisticated ambience. You can choose from various options, from subtle LED strips along shelves to automated chandeliers that illuminate as you enter.
For the ultimate experience, consider installing a built-in sound system. Whether you're getting ready for a day at work or winding down in the evening, having your favourite music or podcast playing in the background can make the experience more enjoyable. Look for discreet, high-quality speakers that blend seamlessly into the design of your wardrobe.
Creating a walk in wardrobe that is functional and visually appealing requires thoughtful organisation and a touch of style. The aim is to make your walk in wardrobe feel like a natural extension of your lifestyle and home. In this step, we will guide you through the process of maximising organisation and styling your space to achieve a harmonious and inviting wardrobe environment.
Maximising organisation within your walk in wardrobe is essential to transforming it into a functional, personalised space. A well-organised wardrobe does more than store clothes—it keeps everything from shoes to seasonal staples within easy reach. By focusing on tailored solutions, you can ensure that your wardrobe is as efficient as it is stylish.
Categorise Your Wardrobe
Begin by sorting your clothing, shoes, and accessories into categories. Group items by type, such as tops, bottoms, dresses, outerwear, shoes, and accessories. This will make it easier to find what you need and maintain an organised space.
Maintain a Clean and Functional Space
Regularly declutter and reassess your wardrobe to keep it functional. Donate or sell items you no longer use to maintain a streamlined collection. Implement a 'one in, one out' policy to prevent overfilling your wardrobe.
When it comes to personalising your walk in wardrobe, styling plays a crucial role in transforming a simple storage space into a functional, aesthetic haven. The process goes beyond just organising clothes and accessories; it involves selecting elements that create a visually appealing, harmonious environment that works with your home's design. Whether you are drawn to minimalist, modern, or classic styles, there are numerous ways to tailor the space to fit your needs and preferences.
Neat Folding Techniques
Folding clothes neatly not only saves space but also creates a visually appealing display. Use uniform folding methods, such as the KonMari technique, to ensure consistency. Stack clothes vertically in drawers for easy viewing and access.
Arrange by Colour and Style
Create a visually pleasing wardrobe by arranging clothes and accessories by colour. Start with lighter shades and transition to darker tones, creating a gradient effect. Alternatively, group items by style or occasion to simplify outfit planning.
In conclusion, personalising your walk in wardrobe is an exciting journey that combines functionality with style, ensuring that every inch of your space reflects your unique needs and tastes. By following a step-by-step guide, you’ll start by assessing your space and storage requirements. Carefully choosing the right layout will maximise your space's potential, while your selection of materials and finishes will enhance the cohesiveness with your home’s decor. Incorporating versatile storage features ensures everything has its place, promoting ease of access. Add personal touches with mirrors, art, and luxurious elements to elevate the ambience, while smart storage solutions bring a twist with added convenience. Finally, by organising and styling, you create a storage area that inspires and simplifies your daily routine.
Here at Silva Wardrobes, we believe that you shouldn't have to compromise on quality when you’re on a budget. We offer a wide range of built in wardrobe designs in varying materials and finishes, so you can get the perfect built in or walk in wardrobe for your home no matter what the budget you're working with.
Proudly Australian owned and made. All our work is carried out locally in Sydney with only the highest level of craftsmanship and comes with a lifetime guarantee.