Layout & Space
The first thing to consider when designing a walk in wardrobe, is the space you have. Having the dimensions of the room or space you are having your walk in wardrobe in is a must. This includes the length of all the relevant walls and a floor to ceiling height. Allowing for any doors, windows, radiators you have will help to determine the overall shape of your walk in wardrobe. With this information together, a walk in wardrobe can be planned out that suits the space to maximize it’s potential.
With the overall layout of your walk in there are many factors to choose, with walk in’s typically being bespoke to suit.
Corners:
If your walk in wardrobe is made in an l-shape or u-shape there are generally 2 options for the corners. A ‘traditional’ corner uses 2 modules that butt up against each other, with 1 going further past the other to allow you to reach in further back to access the space. A ‘dedicated’ corner is a module specifically built as an l-shape giving you a corner without a divider that can be accessed direct. This is only a decision to be made when using a carcass system…
Panel vs Carcass:
Typically there are 2 styles of walk in you can have a ‘Panel’ system and a ‘Carcass’ system. A panel system uses wall mounted panels with supports that allow the storage accessories to be fixed to. This works generally well in all spaces as there is an absence of sides, meaning you get a continuous and free flowing feel. A carcass system is essentially a wardrobe module without doors, meaning each module is seperated by a side. This is great if you want to divide up your storage spaces more traditionally.
Storage - What Do You Need?
A good rule of thumb when deciding what you need to store is to work in percentages. When thinking of the walk in wardrobe as a whole, what percentage needs to be hanging, what percent needs to be drawers etc? Once you have an idea of this you can then decide on how you want to store things.
Hangers are generally good for most items like t-shirts, jumpers, shirts. However, you might want to have some shelving if you prefer to fold items. Drawers are useful for many items including socks and underwear, pyjamas or items you don’t wear all the time.
There are also choices when it comes to dedicated sotrage accessories. Trouser racks are specifically designed for you to hang trousers and shoe racks to store shoes for example. These can help you keep these items in a dedicated space and also add that luxury feel to the walk in wardrobe.
One of the most useful aspects of having a dedicated walk in wardrobe, is the ability to use it for more than just storage. A walk in wardrobe can feature a built in dressing table, that fits in perfectly within the wardrobe modules. Other luxury elements can be created such as a seating area, which can really elevate your walk in to new heights. Central island units are also a great idea where space is at a premium. These allow you not only to have additional storage but to also create a focal point in the room. Islands can be made to suit your particular needs but look particularly stunning when equipped with a glass top above jewellery and trinket trays.
Complete your walk in wardrobe design
A walk in wardrobe wouldn’t be complete without lighting. Lights not only offer a practical addition, they elevate the overall design adding a finishing luxurious touch. When choosing lighting there are mainly 2 ways to go. The first option is integrated shelf lights. These sit within the top or shelves of the walk in, illumiating specific areas. The second option is integrated vertical lighting. Vertical lights can only be used in carcass systems and illuminate the entire module as they run from the base to the top, illuminating the entire area.
Whilst many walk in wardrobes are completely open, it’s possible to add in doors to the design. Doors can be used to break up the space if it is a large area or to create designated areas for specific items of clothing. Solid doors are ideal if you have items that need to be hidden away, or for items that won’t be worn all of the time. Glass doors can also be used to create display sections, these are ideal for showcasing items such as handbags or shoes.
When it comes to designing a walk in wardrobe, there is no wrong or right way. Every space is different and every project is unique to the persons personal taste. The main things to consider when designing a walk in are ‘what is the space you have’, ‘what look do you want to create’ and ‘what amount do i need to store now and for the future’.
If you are looking to create a one of a kind walk in wardrobe, our expert designers on on hand to bring your dream walk in to life.