Are you tired of rummaging through a chaotic wardrobe every morning? A well-planned wardrobe layout can transform your daily routine, making it easier to find and organise your clothes. Whether you’re working with a compact space or a walk-in closet, this guide will help you create a wardrobe that’s both functional and stylish.
Understanding Your Space and Needs
Before you start planning your wardrobe layout, it’s important to assess your space and personal requirements. Consider the following:
- Measure your available space: Take accurate measurements of the area where your wardrobe will be placed. Don’t forget to account for doors, windows, and any other architectural features that might impact your design.
- Evaluate your clothing inventory: Take stock of your current wardrobe. How many long-hanging items do you have? How many folded items? Do you have a lot of accessories or shoes?
- Consider your lifestyle: Are you a minimalist or do you have an extensive wardrobe? Do you need space for formal wear or mostly casual clothes?
- Think about your daily routine: How do you prefer to organise your clothes? Do you like everything visible, or do you prefer some items tucked away?
Essential Elements of a Well-Planned Wardrobe
Now that you’ve assessed your needs, let’s look at the key components of a functional wardrobe layout:
1. Hanging Space
Dedicate enough room for hanging clothes. This typically includes:
- Long hanging space for dresses, coats, and trousers
- Short hanging space for shirts, skirts, and jackets
Pro tip: Double hanging rods can effectively double your hanging space in the same area.
2. Shelving
Shelves are perfect for folded items like jumpers, t-shirts, and jeans. Consider adjustable shelving to accommodate changing needs.
3. Drawers
Drawers are ideal for smaller items like underwear, socks, and accessories. They keep things tidy and out of sight.
4. Shoe Storage
Don’t forget about your footwear! Options include shelves, racks, or specially designed shoe drawers.
5. Accessories Organisation
Think about how you’ll store belts, ties, scarves, and jewellery. Hooks, small drawers, or dedicated organisers can be very useful.
Comparing Wardrobe Layouts
Different layouts suit different needs. Here’s a comparison of three popular wardrobe layouts:
| Layout Type | Pros | Cons | Best For |
| Walk-in Wardrobe | – Spacious- Can accommodate all storage types- Allows for a dressing area | – Requires significant space- Can be expensive to build | Large bedrooms, luxury homes |
| Built-in Wardrobe | – Maximises use of available space – Can be customised to fit the room perfectly | – Less flexible for future changes – May require professional installation | Most bedroom sizes, those wanting a tailored solution |
| Freestanding Wardrobe | – Flexible and movable – No installation required- Often more affordable | – May not maximise space efficiently- Limited customisation options | Renters, those on a budget, smaller spaces |
Planning Your Layout
With these elements in mind, here’s how to approach planning your wardrobe layout:
- Sketch it out: Start by drawing a rough plan of your space and where you’d like each element to go.
- Prioritise accessibility: Place frequently used items at eye level and within easy reach. Less used items can go higher up or lower down.
- Use vertical space wisely: In smaller wardrobes, make use of the full height. Consider adding a second rail for shorter items or using the back of doors for additional storage.
- Allow for growth: If possible, leave some space for your wardrobe to grow. You might acquire new clothes or your style might change over time.
- Consider lighting: Good lighting is crucial in a wardrobe. If natural light is limited, think about incorporating LED strips or motion-sensor lights.
- Don’t forget ventilation: Proper airflow helps keep your clothes fresh and prevents musty odours.
Maximising Small Spaces
If you’re working with a compact area, don’t worry! Here are some tips for maximising small wardrobe spaces:
- Use slimline hangers to save space and keep clothes from slipping
- Invest in drawer dividers and storage boxes to keep small items organised
- Consider vacuum storage bags for out-of-season clothes
- Use the back of the wardrobe door for additional storage (hooks, shoe organisers, etc.)
- Opt for multi-functional furniture, like an ottoman with storage that can double as a seat
Maintaining Your Organised Wardrobe
Once you’ve planned and implemented your perfect wardrobe layout, maintaining it is key. Here are some tips:
- Regularly declutter and donate items you no longer wear
- Implement a ‘one in, one out’ rule to prevent overcrowding
- Reassess your layout periodically and adjust as your needs change
- Use consistent hangers for a neater appearance and better organisation
FAQs
How much hanging space do I need?
As a general rule, allow about 1 metre of hanging space for every 20 hanging garments. However, this can vary based on the type of clothes you own.
What’s the ideal depth for a wardrobe?
A depth of 60cm is usually sufficient for most wardrobes. This allows hangers to fit comfortably without protruding.
How high should I place my hanging rods?
For a single rod, about 165cm from the floor is standard. For double rods, place the top rod at about 180cm and the lower rod at 90cm.
How can I make my wardrobe feel more luxurious?
Consider adding features like soft-close drawers, plush carpeting (for walk-ins), a full-length mirror, and elegant lighting.
Is it worth investing in a custom-built wardrobe?
If you have an awkward space or specific storage needs, a custom-built wardrobe can be a great investment. It maximises your space efficiency and can add value to your home.
Get a bespoke wardrobe quote from G&M
Planning the perfect wardrobe layout is a blend of practicality and personal style. By understanding your needs, maximising your space, and incorporating smart storage solutions, you can create a wardrobe that not only stores your clothes efficiently but also brings joy to your daily routine.
Remember, there’s no one-size-fits-all solution when it comes to wardrobe layouts. What works best for you will depend on your space, lifestyle, and personal preferences. If you’re feeling overwhelmed or want a truly bespoke solution, consider reaching out to our team. We can offer expert advice and create a custom wardrobe design that perfectly fits your space and needs.
Contact G&M today at 01206 212913 or by email at info@gandmltd.co.uk.