WHEN DONE RIGHT, FITTED WARDROBES COMBINE STYLE AND SUBSTANCE SEAMLESSLY – THIS IS HOW YOU DO IT
Storageandstyledon’talwaysgohandinhand,butfittedwardrobes can utilise awkward corners and unused alcoves, all with a seamless and stylish finish. ‘A wardrobe isn’t only storage; it’s a transforming object that evolves and adapts to become an integral part of our life,’ says Steve Leung of Steve Leung Design Group, who designed the Eureka wardrobe for LEMA. With so many options, we’re here to help you invest in the best.
When it comes to sizing, your fitted wardrobe should measure around 50-67cm deep from the back wall to the front.
Any less and you’re not getting much in; any more and you’re entering Narnia territory. Don’t be afraid to go f loor-toceiling, which is seamless and provides room up top for pigeon hole shelving. A ladder can help you get to difficult-to-reach spaces. ‘More than materials and colours, today’s general trend is to favour wardrobes that are able to fully maximise the spatial layout of a specific living environ,’ says Steve. Utilise architectural details: alcoves either side of a chimney breast, for example, will make the most of the natural depth of the room. Alternatively, make use of a whole wall – so long as it doesn’t dominate.
In general, composition of your fitted wardrobe should be made up of 60% hanging, 20% shelves and 20% drawers.
However, it’s also about establishing what you’re using the space for. Do you need more hangers than drawers, or shelves for a shoe collection? ‘A sensible place to start is by assessing your storage needs,’ says Rachal Hutcheson of Sharps. ‘Think about the volume of clothes and shoes you have, whether you might need areas for bedding and how much space you might need in the future.’ Once you’ve considered the capacity, think about the elements of the interior fit-out. Combining hanging rails with pigeon hole shelving, internal drawers and shoe storage will keep you organised. Fitted wardrobes are evolving to conceal other things aside from drawers – like a dressing table, vanity or desk.
The most popular styles of fitted wardrobe door are Shaker, slab and sliding.
‘Shaker designs are a perennial favourite f
