How to create the perfect walk-in wardrobe for your bedroom

If you could add one dream feature to your home, what would it be? For many people, a walk-in or walk-through wardrobe sits right at the top of the wish list. But how realistic is it to include such a luxurious feature in the average home?

You might be surprised. Walk-in wardrobes aren't exclusively for homes with acres of space or the 'right' bedroom layout. At Hammonds, our experts create walk-in wardrobe designs for all sorts of bedrooms – big and small, wide and narrow, straightforward and awkward.

As well as being more versatile than you might expect, walk-in wardrobes offer far more than just storage. When thoughtfully designed, they provide a dedicated space for clothes, shoes and accessories, while helping your bedroom feel more organised and, in many cases, even more spacious. A walk-through wardrobe to the bathroom can even make use of space that can't be used for anything else.

Intrigued? Here are our walk-in and walk-through wardrobe ideas, and some tips on how to create the perfect design for your space.

The galley-style wardrobe

A galley walk-in closet is an ideal solution for smaller bedrooms or spare rooms that aren't quite large enough for a bed. This layout uses floor-to-ceiling storage along one or both walls, making the most of every inch of available space.

Depending on your preference and the room layout, the wardrobe can be left open for a boutique-style, walk-in feel, or fitted with sliding or hinged doors for a tidier look. In particularly compact spaces, mirrored doors are a great option, reflecting light and creating the illusion of a larger room.

The enclosed wardrobe

If you have enough space to move around comfortably and like the idea of a more private walk-in wardrobe, an enclosed design is the way to go. This option creates a dedicated area where you can step away from the main bedroom to get dressed in peace.

Separated by sliding or hinged doors, an enclosed wardrobe feels like a personal dressing room. Consider it your very own fashion-focused ensuite to enjoy, while the bedroom stays calm and uncluttered.

Making use of an awkward space

Even the most challenging bedroom layouts can be transformed into practical storage solutions. If you have an area that feels awkward or difficult to use, it doesn't have to go to waste – with the right design, it can become a highly functional walk-in or walk-through wardrobe.

Some of our popular storage solutions for awkward spaces include:

• Above bed – ideal when floor space is limited, making use of otherwise unused height.
• Lofts and attics – maximise additional space, no matter how compact, with tailored designs that work around the angles.
• Alcoves – built-in, wall-to-wall and floor-to-ceiling cupboards create valuable storage and hanging space.
• Sloped ceilings – custom wardrobes designed to fit beneath angled roofs help you make the most of every corner.
• Box bedrooms – small or compact rooms can be transformed into dedicated wardrobe spaces, adding loads of storage in under-utilised rooms.

Customising your walk-through wardrobe designs

Once you've chosen the right walk-in wardrobe style for your bedroom, the next step is customisation. Thinking through a few key decisions will help you create a space that looks great and works perfectly for your lifestyle.

Customisation question #1: hang or fold?

Start by taking stock of what you own. Do you have more clothes than shoes, or the other way around? Do you prefer items hung neatly or folded into drawers? Don't forget accessories like bags, belts and jewellery.

Answering these questions will help you decide how much hanging space, shelving and drawer storage your walk-in wardrobe needs.

Customisation question #2: lighting

One of the advantages of a walk-in wardrobe is that it can be treated like a room in its own right – and that means lighting deserves careful thought. This is a great opportunity to get creative.

You could install discreet spotlights, integrated lighting within the wardrobe, or mood-enhancing options such as LED strip lighting along the top or base of your storage for a more contemporary feel.

Customisation question #3: finishes and materials

The finishes and materials you choose will define the overall look of your walk-in wardrobe, so they must complement the rest of your bedroom. Your choice may also depend on your budget, with a more designer walk-through wardrobe costing more than others.

If you're looking to make a statement, solid wood or veneer finishes offer a premium look and feel. More budget-friendly options, such as MDF, plywood or particle board, can still deliver a stylish and practical result when thoughtfully designed.

Book a design visit with us

We can help you bring your dream walk-in wardrobe design to life. Book a free design visit with our experts to talk through all the potential fitted storage options for your home. And for more tips, tricks and ideas, check out the inspiration section on our website.