Call to order: get the wardrobe of your dreams
What to think about when designing your ideal wardrobe fit-out — an expert shares her tips.
You’re probably in and out of your wardrobe a couple of times a day at the very least. So, it makes sense to design it well from the outset.
And that includes making sure it looks good and harmonises with the rest of your home’s design theme.
Kinsman Wardrobes designer Elain Maytom recommended when choosing wardrobe finishes to be guided by the style of your other rooms.
“Often, people look at a wardrobe on its own, but you should reference it back to finishes used elsewhere in the house, so each room gels with the next,” Ms Maytom said.
Popular finishes include embossed woodgrain, timber and stone-look textures, as well as a laminate finish that resembles linen.
“The linen look is great for open wardrobes because it ties back to the decor in the bedroom and makes the wardrobe feel more connected to the space,” Ms Maytom said.
Below are more of her tips on what to consider when installing a wardrobe.
Where to start
First, look at the size and layout of the room and who you are designing the wardrobe for, Ms Maytom advised.
Ask yourself: Is there enough floor space to accommodate a walk-in wardrobe? Or would a straight-run hinged wardrobe be better? Is it for a young child’s room, a teenager, a couple or guests?
Then, she suggested, write down or take photos of what you needed to store so you could discuss this with your designer. And be sure to futureproof the wardrobe as much as possible.
“A wardrobe is not something you change on a whim. Always allow extra storage for down the track because your needs will change with time,” Ms Maytom said.
She also suggested including adjustable shelves to provide flexibility in how things were stored.
“This allows the wardrobe configuration to change through the seasons so it can accommodate larger items like jackets and jumpers during winter and T-shirts during the warmer months.”
Ms Maytom said full-height hanging space was necessary for long dresses and coats, double hanging storage was best for shirts and pants, and drawers or shelves were good for shoes.
She added drawer dividers were also handy when storing underwear and socks to keep things neat and tidy.
A touch of luxe
It’s easy to get distracted by features that elevate the look a style notch. But Ms Maytom said don’t start looking at these elements until you had carefully covered off the must-haves.
“You need the wardrobe to be functional, first and foremost. It should be able to hold all your clothes and accessories without feeling overcrowded and allow easy daily access,” she said. “Then you can add the luxury bits and pieces.”
Make-up stations and jewellery drawers are sought-after pampering touches and backlit cabinets with glass shelves provide perfect places to display special handbags and shoes.
Just remember, the area around a make-up table should be well lit.
“And, when space allows, having an island unit is a great addition for extra storage, with a stone top for a bit of luxe factor,” Ms Maytom said.
Dual wardrobes are a good choice for couples sharing a room. Each section of the wardrobe can be tailored to an individual’s needs to create better flow and access.
Alternatively, if space is limited, a galley-style walk-in wardrobe might be the go, or simply repeat the storage fit-out at either end of a built-in wardrobe.
Bright ideas
Look at bringing in design elements such as warm LED strip lighting to make your wardrobes more inviting and highlight specific sections or garments, Ms Maytom said.
“It’s all about making the space as convenient for you as possible.”
You might also like to bring in features that add an extra element of fun.
“We design some wardrobes with USB-charging points so you can play music while getting dressed. It’s a lovely way to start or finish the day,” Ms Maytom said.
Wardrobe tips
Here is some more advice from Ms Maytom:
• Hang a mirror in the wardrobe to make getting dressed easier.
• Consider sliding doors with reflective mirror board in tight bedrooms to make the room feel bigger and make better use of the floor space.
• Add mood lighting to a walk-in wardrobe to capture a high-end boutique feel.
• Use wire-basket drawers so your clothes and shoes can breathe.
• Install a mix of open and hinged-door modules within the wardrobe for added functionality.
• Store scarves and ties on pull-out racks.
• Bring in a laundry hamper to conveniently store dirty washing.
• Install beautiful door handles for a touch of class. Brass and black handles are on trend.
Originally published as Call to order: get the wardrobe of your dreams