Make your dream walk-in wardrobes come true with these 10 design ideas

1. Convert part of the bedroom into the wardrobe
Large bedroom design can easily incorporate a walk-in closet area without looking confined. The easiest way to do this is to create a semi-partition wall as seen in this image. The layout uses the partition wall for the closet storage. You could also use a floor-to-ceiling wardrobe as the partition and do away with creating a concrete wall all together. For the sleeping area, you can place the bed against this partition using the wall for the headboard and bedside tables or have the bed facing this wall and use it for the television.

Design tip: Add elements like a full-length mirror, adequate seating like an ottoman or bench and a carpet. 

2. Turn a spare room into a multifunctional walk-in
Spare rooms, especially smaller ones, are perfect for walk-in closets that give that luxe boutique feel. Instead of using it as a guest bedroom design which would be used only occasionally, turn the spare room into the closet of your dreams. Consider design elements like glass-panelled French doors for the entry, beautiful wood shelves, wall-to-wall carpeting and leather seating. Take a cue from this image and don’t forget to carve out space for a shoe closet and accessory drawers or cabinets.

Design tip: Since you’re using an entire room, make it a multipurpose one like adding a discrete laundry zone with an ironing table. 

3. Use sliding glass doors to section different zones
Instead of adding a solid wall to your bedroom, another way to section one part into a walk-in is by constructing sliding glass doors. Here, the design of the wardrobe storage is similar to a fixed wardrobe but without the shutters. By taking in a few feet and enclosing the entire area with sliding glass doors, the section has turned into an efficient and neat walk-in closet design.

Design tip: Add a full-length mirror on a side wall, wood panelling on the ceiling with recessed or cove lights and carpeting on the floor.

4. Use both open and closed storage for optimum efficiency
While designing your walk-in closet, the first step is to think of every item you want to store here for every person using the closet, from clothing to shoes to bags to accessories like belts, jewellery, sports paraphernalia, head gear and hair accessories. Also consider what other uses you want for the room like and ironing station. Then think of a design that incorporates a dedicated space for each category like summer or winter wear, formal and party wear, daily items, etc. Go for a combination of open and closed storage from wall-mounted and free-standing units to open shelves.

Design tip: A chest of drawers is a great storage solution and you can convert the top into a dressing table. 

5. Take advantage of vertical space
Even if your walk-in closet is small, you can create a smart area if designed efficiently with clever utilisation of all the space available. This means using the entire wall right up to the ceiling. You could customise closed cabinets for the area above the reach of your hand to store seasonal clothing or even home linen like curtains, cushion covers, towels and bedding. Research all the wardrobe accessories available and which ones make sense to you. There are drawers with special organisers for belts, jewellery and ties. There are pull-out rod and shelf systems which help you hang and store clothes more efficiently.

Design tip: You could also consider add-ons like valet rods and garment lifts.

6. Focus on lighting
While smart storage is the main factor of a walk-in wardrobe design, lighting is the second important detail that requires attention. A dimly lit walk-in is practically useless. If possible, try to get as much natural light and ventilation in the closet but also add optimum artificial lighting. Ambient lights - like a central pendant, overhead recessed lights or cove lighting - illuminate the entire space. Next look at task lights which are bright lights directed towards a specific task like lights around the mirror or dressing table. like a table lamp used in a reading corner.

7. Use corners efficiently
There are many wardrobe designs and modular units that are meant for corners. This includes both open and closed storage that work to make use of every inch of space available to you in the most efficient and easy-to-use manner. So, when designing your walk-in, don’t only look at a linear layout rather consider a perpendicular or U-shape design that uses multiple walls.

Design tip: The corners can be used for L-shaped shelves and hanging rails that run right till the end. Another great way to use the corner is an open, rotating shoe rack.

1. A dressing table
Another glamourous element is a swanky dressing table area replete with storage, multiple mirrors, perfect make-up lighting and comfy seating. This turns your walk-in wardrobe into a multi-functional space to get ready.

Design tip: Look at glass shutters instead of solid wardrobe doors; this makes the room feel more open, however, you will have to keep the wardrobes well-organised and tidy at all times.

2. An island
A central island is the epitome of luxury in a walk-in wardrobe. This creates a focal point in the space, especially if you incorporate overhead lighting. And just like a kitchen island, an island in a walk-in can double your storage. Use it to store accessories, shoes, seasonal clothes or even as a dressing table area. Seen here, the top of the island is a glass enclosed section for watches and jewellery so they remain safe yet visible when you are picking out your ensemble. 

Design tip:  Think of what you will be storing in drawers – those used for clothes need to be deeper while those used for accessories and underwear can be shallow.

3. A vanity area
For maximum functionality and luxury, you can incorporate your walk-in wardrobe into a spacious bathroom with an open and adjacent dressing table and sink area. The shower and wet areas of the bathroom should be enclosed in glass cubicles or even another section of the room.

Design tip: Make sure the entire room is well ventilated and the wet areas are well sealed so constant moisture doesn’t ruin your precious belongings.