Things We Can Learn From These Dream Wardrobes
Whether you're working with a luxuriously large area or a more modest space, having a custom closet is the thing dreams are made of
You might think creating a wardrobe is a simple task, but as these delectable designs reveal, there is a myriad of different styles and inclusions to consider before producing your dream designer robe. A custom-built robe can cost somewhere between $10,000 to $20,000 and can be likened to designing a kitchen, so it’s not something to take likely. If you’re thinking of taking your robe to the next level, take a look at the lessons we learned from these beautiful wardrobe designs on Houzz.
An open design makes your fashion the centrepiece
A clothing storage system with no doors, in which your clothing and accessories are on full display, can look as chic as a boutique clothing store. As can be seen in this fit-out by Plum Builders, Inc, the key to a successful open robe, however, is organisation. When planning your open robe, knowing how much space to allocate to hanging garments and items that are more likely to be folded will ensure it always looks effortless and inviting.
Hart adds that open design works best for couples who share closet space, as “opening and closing doors can become chaotic when trying to get ready at the same time.” Besides aesthetics and practicality, another welcome bonus of going sans doors is the savings you will pocket, which is handy if budget is an issue.
A clothing storage system with no doors, in which your clothing and accessories are on full display, can look as chic as a boutique clothing store. As can be seen in this fit-out by Plum Builders, Inc, the key to a successful open robe, however, is organisation. When planning your open robe, knowing how much space to allocate to hanging garments and items that are more likely to be folded will ensure it always looks effortless and inviting.
Hart adds that open design works best for couples who share closet space, as “opening and closing doors can become chaotic when trying to get ready at the same time.” Besides aesthetics and practicality, another welcome bonus of going sans doors is the savings you will pocket, which is handy if budget is an issue.
Shoes or accessories can be a focal point
If you have a shoe collection to rival Carrie Bradshaw’s, then don’t hush those puppies by hiding them away in the confines of your cupboard. A special collection of shoes or handbags should be incorporated into the theme of your wardrobe. Not only should your space reflect your personality and your passion for designer goods, but giving your favourite fashion items some specialised space gives you the luxury of seeing exactly what’s on offer when selecting your outfit for the day as opposed to rifling for what you need.
As this image demonstrates, some simple moulding mounted to a wall provides the perfect place to hang your heels, freeing up drawer and cupboard space for other items.
If you have a shoe collection to rival Carrie Bradshaw’s, then don’t hush those puppies by hiding them away in the confines of your cupboard. A special collection of shoes or handbags should be incorporated into the theme of your wardrobe. Not only should your space reflect your personality and your passion for designer goods, but giving your favourite fashion items some specialised space gives you the luxury of seeing exactly what’s on offer when selecting your outfit for the day as opposed to rifling for what you need.
As this image demonstrates, some simple moulding mounted to a wall provides the perfect place to hang your heels, freeing up drawer and cupboard space for other items.
Dedicated shelving is another fabulous way to present shoes. The trick to ensure your kicks are the centre of attention is to arrange them in a way that catches the eye and allow each pair some breathing space.
Wardrobe ideas for fashion lovers
Wardrobe ideas for fashion lovers
An outfit ‘viewing area’ can simplify your choices
This designer wardrobe inclusion is an understated stroke of genius. Why have a gorgeous wardrobe and stylish clothes if you don’t have an area to prepare your outfits and style your look for the moment? It could be as simple as a valet hook on a wall or cupboard in which to hang your clothing, so you can accessorise and match the right shoes, jewellery, bag and jacket, as seen in this image. What I particularly love about this design is that it includes a seating area to sit back and view the options, giving you that added perspective.
This designer wardrobe inclusion is an understated stroke of genius. Why have a gorgeous wardrobe and stylish clothes if you don’t have an area to prepare your outfits and style your look for the moment? It could be as simple as a valet hook on a wall or cupboard in which to hang your clothing, so you can accessorise and match the right shoes, jewellery, bag and jacket, as seen in this image. What I particularly love about this design is that it includes a seating area to sit back and view the options, giving you that added perspective.
An ornate dress mannequin, on the other hand, not only offers a place to model potential outfits, but can also double as a designer feature or focal point of your wardrobe. However you choose to display your outfits, having a dedicated space for the sole purpose of helping you put your best foot forward is a worthy investment.
The right mirror can add a sense of luxury
As this wardrobe demonstrates, a lovely vintage mirror can be a beautiful addition to a more feminine wardrobe; but whatever your taste, whether it be ultra modern, contemporary or something more traditional, creating an area for a chair and vanity will take your robe to the next level and will provide the perfect space to apply make-up and coif your hair before stepping out.
How to fit in a dressing table
As this wardrobe demonstrates, a lovely vintage mirror can be a beautiful addition to a more feminine wardrobe; but whatever your taste, whether it be ultra modern, contemporary or something more traditional, creating an area for a chair and vanity will take your robe to the next level and will provide the perfect space to apply make-up and coif your hair before stepping out.
How to fit in a dressing table
Hart agrees that including mirrors in your designer robe is worth investing in. “Leave space for a mirror on a wall or, if you are short on space, have your mirror on the back of a door – it’s particularly nice to have a full-length mirror included in your wardrobe,” she says.
Wardrobe doors and panels can also double as mirrors, as can be seen in this spacious robe.
“Just be sure to incorporate your mirror in an area where you have enough space to step back and take in the full view,” recommends Hart.
Why architects and interior designers love using mirrors
Wardrobe doors and panels can also double as mirrors, as can be seen in this spacious robe.
“Just be sure to incorporate your mirror in an area where you have enough space to step back and take in the full view,” recommends Hart.
Why architects and interior designers love using mirrors
Lighting can lift your wardrobe game
Just as kitchens require different lighting for different functions, so does your wardrobe. Hart reveals there are three main types of lighting that will bring your robe to life. “The first is display lighting to showcase your clothing. Usually the best option would be recessed downlights, but it really depends on the style of your robe. A more modern wardrobe might be better to use modern LED strips in the kickboards,” says Hart.
The second type of light is task lighting. In this image, task lighting is used in the form of bulbs around the mirror, to help with getting ready. “Make-up lighting needs to be cast from the sides to get a better view of your face,” says Hart.
Finally, a touch of mood lighting will set the scene. “Depending on the style of your wardrobe, you could choose to have a chandelier, or a modern pendant, but the key is to pick a light that captures the ambience of the space,” says Hart.
Just as kitchens require different lighting for different functions, so does your wardrobe. Hart reveals there are three main types of lighting that will bring your robe to life. “The first is display lighting to showcase your clothing. Usually the best option would be recessed downlights, but it really depends on the style of your robe. A more modern wardrobe might be better to use modern LED strips in the kickboards,” says Hart.
The second type of light is task lighting. In this image, task lighting is used in the form of bulbs around the mirror, to help with getting ready. “Make-up lighting needs to be cast from the sides to get a better view of your face,” says Hart.
Finally, a touch of mood lighting will set the scene. “Depending on the style of your wardrobe, you could choose to have a chandelier, or a modern pendant, but the key is to pick a light that captures the ambience of the space,” says Hart.
A tufted wall can be luxurious and practical
If you are searching for the perfect concept for a feature wall within your robe, behold the beauty that is this bespoke upholstered wall. The soft tufted wall is not only an interesting design concept, but can double as a clever storage wall, too. By simply adding hooks, you could feature anything from necklaces to a collection of handbags to hats on your breakout space.
If you are searching for the perfect concept for a feature wall within your robe, behold the beauty that is this bespoke upholstered wall. The soft tufted wall is not only an interesting design concept, but can double as a clever storage wall, too. By simply adding hooks, you could feature anything from necklaces to a collection of handbags to hats on your breakout space.
Carpet looks and feels plush in a walk-in
There’s no better feeling than stepping barefoot onto a thick pile carpet for that added element of luxury and a walk-in robe is no exception – especially if your robe is a thoroughfare to your ensuite.
There’s no better feeling than stepping barefoot onto a thick pile carpet for that added element of luxury and a walk-in robe is no exception – especially if your robe is a thoroughfare to your ensuite.
Matching coat hangers will tie your theme together
Wardrobes can sometimes fall prey to a little bit of disorganisation. I know that I am guilty of hunting around the house looking for a spare hanger to hang my newest fashion purchase. Before you know it, you’ve got a robe full of mismatched hangers, a pile of unfolded clothes that you will get to later and a door that won’t stay shut even though you are putting your entire body weight against it.
Throw out the ruddy metal and cheap plastic coat hangers you’ve had since high school and invest in something a little more elegant and keep them consistent to ensure that seamless, organised look.
Wardrobes can sometimes fall prey to a little bit of disorganisation. I know that I am guilty of hunting around the house looking for a spare hanger to hang my newest fashion purchase. Before you know it, you’ve got a robe full of mismatched hangers, a pile of unfolded clothes that you will get to later and a door that won’t stay shut even though you are putting your entire body weight against it.
Throw out the ruddy metal and cheap plastic coat hangers you’ve had since high school and invest in something a little more elegant and keep them consistent to ensure that seamless, organised look.
Clever storage solutions bring the wow factor
It’s one thing to have drawer space for your smaller garments, but having fully compartmentalised drawers made to measure is a little luxury worth having in your life. Laying your items out for a closer audit to determine exactly what you have and how you will group your belongings together will make the design process a lot simpler.
It’s one thing to have drawer space for your smaller garments, but having fully compartmentalised drawers made to measure is a little luxury worth having in your life. Laying your items out for a closer audit to determine exactly what you have and how you will group your belongings together will make the design process a lot simpler.
If there’s one thing disorganised jewellery is known for, it’s becoming a tangled mess! A simple filing system or a custom-built jewellery cabinet will help to declutter your items and, most importantly, will provide a safe place to store your most precious pieces.
Smart storage solutions for your jewellery
Smart storage solutions for your jewellery
Adding mod cons makes the space multi-functional
Some of the best wardrobes are ones that are cleverly designed with modern convenience in mind. More specifically, why leave the very place your garments are hanging to iron a crumple or a crease out of your clothing when you can design your wardrobe to include a built-in ironing station? Think of the time that will be saved on those hectic mornings when you are running late and your blouse needs to be pressed quickly. Or if you like to be efficient and do your ironing and folding at the same time, with this genius contraption, you can do it all while you hang and neatly pack away the garments.
Some of the best wardrobes are ones that are cleverly designed with modern convenience in mind. More specifically, why leave the very place your garments are hanging to iron a crumple or a crease out of your clothing when you can design your wardrobe to include a built-in ironing station? Think of the time that will be saved on those hectic mornings when you are running late and your blouse needs to be pressed quickly. Or if you like to be efficient and do your ironing and folding at the same time, with this genius contraption, you can do it all while you hang and neatly pack away the garments.
Another wonderful contraption worth considering is an in-built laundry hamper system, particularly if your robe is in close proximity to the ensuite. This mod con means you can leave your dirty laundry stored away out of sight, and when the hamper is full, simply unclip the basket and take it to the laundry. You can also use these little treasures to bring folded clothes from the laundry back to your wardrobe. How’s that for convenient?
A window with a view won’t go wasted
If you’re not really a morning person, this wardrobe may just be the cure you’ve been looking for when Monday-itis strikes. Depending on the positioning of your wardrobe and its outlook, you may opt to add a window into your design. If the view is particularly stunning, a floor-to-ceiling window like the one in this retreat will make your wardrobe more than just a storage space – it will become a destination. Or if you don’t have the million dollar view but wish to filter some natural light into your space, a smaller window with a built-in window seat is another option.
However, as lovely as this idea is, Hart cautions that it can mean a little extra maintenance for your clothing, or will at least require you to be extra-smart about your design in order to protect your garments.
“Natural light can fade clothes if exposed to sunlight for extended periods of time, so you may need to rotate your items to avoid this effect damaging your clothing,” she says.
If you’re not really a morning person, this wardrobe may just be the cure you’ve been looking for when Monday-itis strikes. Depending on the positioning of your wardrobe and its outlook, you may opt to add a window into your design. If the view is particularly stunning, a floor-to-ceiling window like the one in this retreat will make your wardrobe more than just a storage space – it will become a destination. Or if you don’t have the million dollar view but wish to filter some natural light into your space, a smaller window with a built-in window seat is another option.
However, as lovely as this idea is, Hart cautions that it can mean a little extra maintenance for your clothing, or will at least require you to be extra-smart about your design in order to protect your garments.
“Natural light can fade clothes if exposed to sunlight for extended periods of time, so you may need to rotate your items to avoid this effect damaging your clothing,” she says.
Custom-built cabinetry means every item is accounted for
You could be a lover of long dresses, or have a collection of coats for every occasion –whatever your assortment of clothing may be, a custom-built wardrobe ensures your belongings are stored away in an orderly fashion. This classically-styled robe has been custom designed for an enviably large collection of shoes, which are the showpiece of this closet. The other gorgeous custom piece that steals the show is the
island storage unit, which is a beautiful inclusion to any custom-built wardrobe.
“Island storage units are best suited to large spaces. You would require a room of 5.5 metres wide to ensure the piece will not only fit, but will give you space to access the rest of your wardrobe,” advises Hart.
TELL US
Which of the above wardrobes do you dream about?
MORE
Stylish Storage: Design a Wardrobe That Will Serve You for a Lifetime
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You could be a lover of long dresses, or have a collection of coats for every occasion –whatever your assortment of clothing may be, a custom-built wardrobe ensures your belongings are stored away in an orderly fashion. This classically-styled robe has been custom designed for an enviably large collection of shoes, which are the showpiece of this closet. The other gorgeous custom piece that steals the show is the
island storage unit, which is a beautiful inclusion to any custom-built wardrobe.
“Island storage units are best suited to large spaces. You would require a room of 5.5 metres wide to ensure the piece will not only fit, but will give you space to access the rest of your wardrobe,” advises Hart.
TELL US
Which of the above wardrobes do you dream about?
MORE
Stylish Storage: Design a Wardrobe That Will Serve You for a Lifetime
12 Tips to Make the Most of a Small Walk-in Wardrobe
Easy Ways to Declutter and Organise Your Wardrobe
The most important thing to factor into your wardrobe design is accessibility of clothing and accessories. Solutions that are simple but thoughtful and always practical – such as this clever bureau with sliding shoe platforms and perfectly-sized pigeon holes for business shirts – makes finding items a breeze.
A simplistic layout that suits your day-to-day needs will ensure your wardrobe design has longevity and will turn getting dressed from a chore into a treat.
The basics of good wardrobe design, according to storage specialist Sally Hart of Clever Closet Company, include maximising space, including a good amount of storage, factoring in adjustability to accommodate a growing collection of clothing and clarifying your priorities when it comes to aesthetic versus function.
“Usually when it comes to wardrobe design, having lots of storage and having an aesthetically beautiful robe tend to conflict. Aesthetics are usually about symmetry, and storage is about maximising your space to store as much as you can as efficiently as you can.” Unfortunately, the two often don’t work together, so measuring your space and deciding what you hope to achieve in your design is the first step to creating your dream wardrobe.
More: Dream Wardrobes for Dudes