Aristo sliding wardrobe doors and Flex reach-in wardrobe organsier

Ideal wardrobe dimensions for your renovation or build project

Ideal wardrobe dimensions for your renovation or build project

August 9, 2024

How big does your wardrobe need to be?

Renovating or building your home is a momentous undertaking and there are so many details you need to think about. That is why we decided to make your life a little bit easier by giving you a cheat sheet of optimal wardrobe measurements.

We all vary in how many things we need to store and therefore how much space we need – in fact, we don’t really like to generalise because we see how individual each of our clients needs (and spaces) are, but this wouldn’t be a very helpful article if it didn’t give you something to start with!

Aristo sectional mirror sliding wardrobe doors

Minimum recommendations for wardrobe size.

Length per person

1800-2400mm is ideal. Some people will need more, some less – it really depends on your lifestyle, clothing/shoe/accessory collection and dressing habits!

Internal depth

600mm – suit jackets and coats especially can be up to 550mm and require 600mm of internal depth. Any less than this will mean your clothes get squashed when trying to close the doors.

Shelf depth and width

400mm minimum – folded garments are typically 350mm wide/deep. Space allowing, we usually recommend shelves be more like 600mm wide, as 400mm can feel a bit cramped to some people (600mm wide can take two folded t-shirts whereas 400mm wide will only fit one).

Height

Our wardrobes generally have a top shelf at 2100mm and our standard doors will reach up to 2400mm, so you can use the vertical space for additional storage. If you have a high stud, we also have doors that can be made up to 2700mm high.

Pro tip

Having one drawer tower that is 800mm wide (3 x t-shirts across) will be far more cost-effective than two 400mm wide towers (1 x t-shirt across each), but use up the exact same amount of space.

Wardrobe size by room

Different rooms in the house will have varying wardrobe requirements. Again we need to stress the fact that each household is going to have different requirements overall because we are all individuals with unique habits, but you asked, and we love to deliver!

Here’s a breakdown of typical spaces and recommended wardrobe sizes:

Master Bedroom

The master bedroom typically requires the most wardrobe space. A walk-in wardrobe is ideal, providing ample storage for two people. Aim for a minimum of 1400mm to 2000mm in depth and as much length as the space allows.

Secondary Bedrooms

For secondary bedrooms, built-in wardrobes with sliding or bi-fold doors are practical. A standard built-in wardrobe can range from 1500mm to 2500mm meters in length, depending on the room size and needs of the occupier – where possible, the bigger the better, because you can really never have too much storage.

Guest Rooms

A guest room can have a smaller wardrobe, perhaps around 1200mm to 1800mm in length, providing enough space for short-term visitors or a place to put extra linen or out-of-season clothing.

Hallway Cupboards

Hallway and entryway closets are great for storing coats, shoes, schoolbags and seasonal items. Allocate at least 1000mm in width.

Linen

For a typical 4-person household, we would aim for at least 2000mm for a linen cupboard, but we can work with whatever space you have available!

Gallery-32-Laundry-with-aerated-plank-shelving-1

There is no one-size-fits-all for wardrobes!

Properly planned wardrobe space is crucial for the functionality and organisation of your home. That being said, every family has their own storage requirements – that’s why its so hard to give generalised measurements (and pricing!).

At Boston Wardrobes, we have worked with a massive spectrum of bespoke projects from the modest to the large and intricate. No space is too small/large/complex and we can work with you at any stage of your build or renovation.

We would love to discuss your wardrobe project! Contact us today to book an appointment with one of our design consultants.

Book a showroom appointment

Other articles


Luxe Walk-in Wardrobe with glass doors, pull out mirror and trouser racks

What's happening in our wardrobe space: wardrobe design trends

What's happening in our Wardrobe space: Wardrobe Design Trends

May 8, 2024

Wardrobe design has evolved beyond mere functionality; it can be a reflection of personal style and a statement of individuality. Blending style and functionality, the humble wardrobe has the power to transform your bedroom and make your mornings easier. Let’s dive into the top trends that we are seeing shaping the landscape of wardrobe design in Auckland.

High-end Retail Wardrobe Design

Borrowing from high-end retail spaces, boutique-inspired wardrobe design exudes luxury and sophistication. Think glass shelving, stone benchtops, striking LED placement, and elegant accents. These designs create gorgeous displays, allowing your clothing and accessories to become the stars. Retail-inspired wardrobes transform everyday storage into a curated collection.

Glass wardrobe shelving boutique style

Freestanding Wardrobes

Viva, Boston Wardrobe’s freestanding wardrobe range, is having a moment in the spotlight. For homes that lack in-built wardrobe space, Viva offers a customisable wardrobe solution without the need for building work. Homeowners can achieve tailored storage and complex configurations while maintaining a considered aesthetic in any room of the house. This freestanding solution is fixed to the wall, ensuring a sturdy, durable and premium wardrobe. Match or accentuate your interior decor through panel colour, door panel detailing and handle choice.

LED Lighting

LED lighting is becoming a must-have for new wardrobes, offering energy-efficient illumination with endless design possibilities. Integrated LED strips create a soft, diffused glow, ensuring every item is visible and easily accessible. The direction of the LED strips is up to the individual, but we are loving the vertical placement of this beautiful Luxe walk-in at our showroom.

Wardrobe detail LED light and hanger bar

Colour Trends

Colour plays a significant role in defining the aesthetic of an interior space. Currently, woodgrains and dark colours are dominating the wardrobe design space, evoking a sense of modern chic. There is also a common thread of continuing cabinetry colour and style throughout the whole house so that kitchen, bathroom and wardrobe spaces work together to create the overall mood. Additionally, designers are incorporating pops of colour through accents and hardware, creating visual interest without overwhelming the space. You can view our colour options here, here and here.

Luxe walk-in wardrobe in dark woodgrain with glass pivot door shoe tower and LED lighting

Handles

Handle choice is a small yet impactful component of wardrobe design, capable of enhancing or completely transforming the overall aesthetic. Pairing woodgrains with complementary metallic finishes is the cornerstone of this part of the wardrobe design process, but we are seeing an increase in bold choices resulting in sharp contrast and playful combinations. Choosing a handle option that goes against the expected silhouette can also modernise a traditional design. At Boston Wardrobes, we collaborate with any handle supplier to put the finishing touches on your wardrobe design.

Viva freestanding wardrobe kids wardrobe

Shoe Storage

Shoe storage is often a challenge in wardrobe design, due to the volume of shoes typically owned and the lack of available space. However, it is one of the components of wardrobe design which can make the biggest improvement in the owner’s daily wardrobe interactions.

We love a vertical shoe tower where space allows for it, giving you instant visibility and showcasing shoe collections as a focal point within the wardrobe. The addition of glass pivot doors transforms the collection into a striking display. Another current favourite shoe storage solution is our pull-out shoe drawers, allowing you to tuck your shoes away for maximum tidiness and order, while still making them easily accessible when you need them.

Auckland Wardrobes
Luxe Walk-in Wardrobe detail of drawer unit and shoe storage

Drawer Tower Islands

These central islands can feature a combination of drawers and shelves, providing additional space for clothing and accessories. Drawer Tower Islands offer tailored storage solutions for everything from jewellery to folded garments such as underwear, activewear and knits. Incorporating materials like glass or stone countertops adds a touch of luxury to the wardrobe space, transforming it into a stylish dressing area. Drawer tower islands not only enhance organization but also level up the overall impact of the wardrobe.

Glass top walk-in wardrobe island

From boutique-inspired luxury to practical storage solutions, each of these wardrobe design trends reflects our understanding of current lifestyle and design preferences. Curious about what elements of wardrobe design you need to consider for your space? We would love to discuss your wardrobe project! Contact us today to book an appointment with one of our design consultants.

Book a showroom appointment

Other articles


Creating-the-perfect-walk-in-wardrobe

Creating the perfect walk-in wardrobe

Creating the perfect walk-in wardrobe

July 15, 2021

You’re dreaming of the perfect walk-in wardrobe, but you have no idea where to start – we hear this a lot. This article will take you through the six steps we commonly work through with our clients to help them achieve their goals within the limitations of their space and budget.

1. How much space do you have?

First up, let’s get clear on the space you have for the wardrobe. Whatever happens, this is going to be one of the hard limits to your creation, as you only have so much space to work with. Begin measuring up to create a rough plan on paper.

For some, this could mean getting out the measuring tape – for others it could be looking at the building plan to see how much capacity has been allowed for. Either way you need to end up with some shapes on paper that relate to the space for your new dream walk-in wardrobe.

2. How should you use the space?

Article-5-Creating-the-perfect-walk-in-wardrobe-2

Now, let’s work on how you want to use the space. It’s not practical to fill the whole space with storage and leave no room for you. So it’s good to think through what you want to do in the space as well as what you need to store.

For instance, you may want it to be a place to put on makeup, or have enough space to check out your outfit in a full-length mirror. Where the space needs to cater for more people than just you, make sure you check in with all parties involved to create a list of needs to suit everyone.

3. Types and amount of clothes that need storage

Article-5-Creating-the-perfect-walk-in-wardrobe-3

Let’s look at the amount and type of items you want your walk-in wardrobe to contain. Our clothes are as individual as we are – those in corporate life will have storage needs that differ from those with a more casual work attire.

Shoes and accessories could be a small part of someone’s wardrobe but a major part of someone else’s. It goes without saying that women and men have different needs too. For instance, the length of a lot of women’s clothing is generally a lot longer than most men’s.

Take your time to make a list of the type of clothes requiring storage. Don’t worry too much about if it will all fit – we can take care of that later – just build a complete list.

4. Don’t forget items that may not immediately seem logical

Article-5-Creating-the-perfect-walk-in-wardrobe-4

It’s not all about clothes. For example, a well designed but hidden jewellery tray could put the finishing touch on your ideal walk-in wardrobe. Allowing for space to store bed linen could take up a small amount of room but save you countless trips up and down stairs.

The light you have to work with in your walk-in wardrobe needs to be thought through too. Windows may need to be frosted to protect privacy and ensure clothes are not harmed by direct sunlight. The type and amount of artificial lighting needed will depend on how you want to use your wardrobe space.

And finally, the dream might be about creating enough space for you to have a moment of peace away from the family. A place to sit down, apply some makeup, pick the right clothes for the occasion and collect yourself before heading out.

Think of these first planning stages as the foundation of your project. Take your time to work through the steps, building a solid understanding to support your wardrobe project.

5. Move from plans to options – with the help of the Boston Wardrobes Wardrobe Design Showroom

Article-5-Creating-the-perfect-walk-in-wardrobe-5

It’s time to move from thinking and planning to seeing and discovering the wide range of options available to you. The Boston Wardrobes Showroom is the ideal next step to make your dream a reality.

With the help of one of our wardrobe design experts, you can see multiple walk-in wardrobe examples in one place, deciding exactly what options suit your requirements.

  • Not sure how many drawers you need? How big they should be?
  • Will 3/4 length hanging work for your suits?
  • Should shoes be at eye level or running along the bottom?
  • How much room do you need for a sitting makeup station?
  • Which accessories will add the most value to your design?
  • Will sliding or bi-folding doors be better for the space?
  • What colours and finishes will best suit your vision?

We can answer all of these questions while we explore all the ranges available at our Grafton site – New Zealand’s largest and newest wardrobe showroom.

Include the drawer system from one of our wardrobes, a sliding door from another, perhaps a makeup stand from a third – it’s as simple as selecting which parts suit your needs to create the ideal wardrobe for you.

6. Achieving the right balance between Function and Form

The Boston Wardrobe design team are experts at creating a walk-in wardrobe design that looks great, works well and is at the right price point to suit your budget. It’s a collaborative process, so you can expect a few ideas to come your way to help you end up with the perfect solution.

So there you have it – six simple steps to take you from bare space to the welcoming walk-in wardrobe of your dreams.

Time to get the measuring tape out?

Contact us to book a showroom appointment

Other articles