If you’re looking for the ultimate form of storage for your bedroom, a custom-fitted wardrobe should not be overlooked. Not only do they maximise the space you have to play with, but they fit seamlessly around your lifestyle.
In this blog, we will discuss the optimal way to plan your fitted wardrobe.
Assessing Your Needs and Lifestyle
The first step in planning a custom wardrobe is to consider what you need from a lifestyle perspective. To do this, it’s important to consider the clothing you own, as the best wardrobe will be tailored to it. Knowing whether you need hanging space, drawers or shelves from the start will help the professionals who are fitting your wardrobe to tailor it to your needs. After all, there is no point having lots of hanging space if what you really need are shelves. The benefit of installing a custom wardrobe is that it can be personalised from the ground up, so make sure your wardrobe is perfect for you.
Remember to leave room for future additions and changes in wardrobe. By planning for the future, you ensure your wardrobe can adapt to changing needs.
Setting A Realistic Budget
Before you get to the design stage, it’s important to consider your budget. This will dictate the scope of the project and impact things like materials and finishes. It is important to state this to the professional fitters you employ to ensure costs don’t get out of control.
Measuring and Understanding Your Space
Now that you’ve considered your needs and budget, the next step is to measure and understand your space. It is vital to ensure accurate measurements are taken from the outset. We recommend using a tape measure to get precise dimensions of the height, width, and depth of the space.
These measurements will dictate how big your wardrobe will be, which will impact the layout of the finished product. For example, you will discover whether you have room for a walk-in wardrobe.
The best thing about having a custom wardrobe is that it can easily fit around skirting boards, corners and irregularly shaped walls, utilising all the space available.
Optimising Internal Layout and Components
Now that you have a concrete idea of the space you have to play with, it’s time to move on to figuring out the best layout for your wardrobe. What you choose will highly depend on your storage needs and the space you have to play with. Be sure to mix the types of storage you have available in the form of hanging space, shelves and drawers.
Most professional wardrobe fitters will produce detailed drawings or a 3D mock-up of your wardrobe to help you visualise the final product. This will ensure that your wardrobe is just right.
Selecting The Right Materials and Finishes
Now that your layout is set, it is important to consider the right materials and finishes. Choosing high-quality materials will ensure the longevity of your wardrobe.
Potential materials include:
Medium-Density Fibreboard
While it lacks the natural appeal of solid wood, this option is the perfect candidate for painting, leaving a smooth finish. It is also very budget-friendly.
Plywood
This material offers a perfect balance between cost and durability. It is ideal for structural components. It resists warping better than solid wood, making it ideal for sliding wardrobe doors.
Additionally, it is important to choose high-quality finishes such as hinges, handles and drawer slides.
Incorporating Accessories and Organisers
Don’t neglect your accessories. Consider having a drawer with dividers for jewellery and belts. You may also wish to incorporate pull-out shoe racks.
Considering Lighting Solutions
Now that you’ve finalised the design of your wardrobe, it’s important to consider how your wardrobe will be lit. Without lights, you will be unable to see your clothing, making your wardrobe frustrating to use.
There are two types of light. Ambient light sets the tone of your wardrobe, offering soft and welcoming light. Task lighting brings light to specific areas, allowing you to see the clothing within clearly.
Ambient light is most desirable for walk-in wardrobes. To achieve it, consider using warm lightbulbs and implementing dimmable lights. Another tactic is to include recessed ceiling lights to equally distribute light across the wardrobe.
Task light options include:
- Under-shelf lighting – LED strip lights will allow you to see what clothing you have clearly.
- Drawer lighting – By having a drawer with its own lighting, you will always see what is contained within it. These lights turn off when the drawer is shut, meaning you don’t have to worry about wasting energy.
- Spotlights – Implementing adjustable spotlights allows you to direct light onto specific areas of your wardrobe, such as your hanging space or display shelves.
Working With A Professional Designer
If you are looking for the perfect custom wardrobe, engaging with professional wardrobe fitters is a no-brainer. They can help guide you through the process from the initial planning stages to the final product. They will not only help you figure out the ideal layout for the wardrobe, but they will also advise on high-quality materials and fittings. In summary, they have the expertise to bring your perfect wardrobe to life.
Looking For a Professional Wardrobe Fitter in Western Australia?
Here at Lifestyle Wardrobes, we specialise in the manufacture and installation of wardrobes. Due to our rich background in cabinet making, we provide impeccable workmanship, top-notch products, and exceptional customer service. Using our experience and expertise, we will help bring your vision to life.
If you are looking for a custom wardrobe fitter, get in touch today for a no-obligation quote and advice. Just click the ‘Book An Appointment’ button on our website or call 08 9303 9962.