When designing a custom wardrobe, the vision is usually clear: a perfect, tailored storage solution that not only complements your space but also enhances your daily routine. At Silva Wardrobe, we understand that the journey from a dream wardrobe to a functional piece of your home can be filled with unexpected challenges and common pitfalls. This article aims to guide you through these potential obstacles, ensuring that your custom wardrobes in Sydney not only meets but exceeds your expectations.
In our years of experience, we have identified several recurring mistakes that can hinder the process of creating a successful custom wardrobe. These range from poor space utilisation, inadequate planning, and overlooking the integration of the wardrobe’s design with the overall aesthetic of the home. Each section of this article will delve into these common errors, providing practical advice on how to avoid them and make informed decisions. Whether you're considering the optimal layout, the right materials, or the most effective storage features, our insights will help you create a wardrobe that is as functional as it is beautiful.
When designing a custom wardrobe, one of the critical challenges is maximising the available space to its fullest potential. Poor space utilisation can lead to a wardrobe that is less functional and satisfying, regardless of its aesthetic appeal. Here are some typical challenges and tips on how to avoid them:
Corner shelves and bespoke L-shaped configurations can be a game-changer. Utilising every inch of corner space not only increases storage capacity but also ensures a seamless look. Consider carousel units for easy access in these tricky spots.
Customisation allows for varying shelf heights, which should be tailored to specific storage needs. Adjustable shelves offer flexibility, adapting to different items as your wardrobe evolves. Incorporate both high and low shelving to manage everything from large items to smaller accessories.
Utilise vertical space by incorporating tiered hanging rods, high shelves, and over-the-door hooks. Ideal for long dresses or coats as well as shorter items like shirts and pants, this approach maximises the wardrobe's height. Consider pull-down hanging rods for high spaces to keep items within reach.
Designate areas for different types of items such as clothes, shoes, accessories, and seasonal wear. Opt for drawers with compartments for tinier items such as socks and underwear, and include dedicated racks for shoes and belts. This not only saves space but also keeps the wardrobe organised.
Ensure that frequently used items are easily accessible, while seasonal or rarely used items can be stored higher up or in less accessible parts of the wardrobe. Accessibility can be enhanced with pull-out baskets, sliding shelves, and clear-front drawers to quickly see and reach contents.
The inside of wardrobe doors offers prime real estate for additional storage. Install shallow racks, hooks, or hanging pockets to store smaller items and accessories. This not only optimises space but also keeps these items hidden and tidy.
Designing a custom wardrobe is an exciting endeavour that allows you to tailor storage solutions to match your lifestyle perfectly. However, without meticulous planning, this process can lead to costly and frustrating mistakes. We emphasise the importance of thorough planning to ensure your custom wardrobe not only meets but exceeds your expectations.
A frequent mistake in wardrobe planning is not allocating enough space. This can refer to both the interior storage space within the wardrobe and the physical space in your room where the wardrobe will be installed.
- Interior Space: Before deciding on the size of your wardrobe, consider what you need to store in it. For example, if you have a significant collection of long dresses or coats, ensure enough hanging space is planned to accommodate these without cramping. Likewise, drawer space for smaller items should be ample to avoid overcrowding.
- Physical Space: It's crucial to measure the area where you intend to install the wardrobe meticulously. Remember to account for clearance space for doors or drawers to open comfortably. Neglecting this can lead to a wardrobe that disrupts the flow of the room or one that cannot be used effectively.
The functionality of your wardrobe hinges significantly on its layout and how easily you can access different sections. A well-planned wardrobe layout considers user ergonomics and efficiency.
- Hanging Areas: Position hanging areas at accessible heights, and consider varied heights for different types of clothing.
- Drawers and Shelves: These should be planned according to frequency of use. Everyday items should be at an easier reach compared to seasonal items which can be stored higher up or in less accessible spots.
- Special Sections: If you have specific needs, such as a pull-out rack for pants or built-in storage for accessories, these should be strategically placed for easy access.
While it's important to design a wardrobe that suits your current lifestyle, failing to consider future changes can render your wardrobe less functional as time goes on.
- Adaptability: Choose shelves that adjust and modular elements that can be rearranged to suit evolving storage requirements. This flexibility can be crucial as you acquire new items or change the type of clothing you use most frequently.
- Scalability: If you anticipate that your wardrobe needs might increase, plan for a design that allows for easy expansion. This could mean setting aside space for additional modules or ensuring that the initial design accommodates add-ons.
A wardrobe should be both functional and harmonious with your room’s decor. An oversight in this area can lead to a wardrobe that sticks out like a sore thumb rather than complementing the existing space.
- Material and Finish: Choose materials and finishes that echo the style and palette of the room. We offer a variety of options to match any decor style, ensuring that your custom wardrobe is not only practical but also aesthetically pleasing.
- Design Details: Focus on minor elements like the design of handles or the finishes on doors. These elements should align with your overall interior design theme to create a cohesive look.
Many of our clients initially underestimate the value of professional advice in the planning stage. Working with our experienced designers can help you avoid common pitfalls and refine your vision.
- Expert Guidance: Our team can provide insights into the latest trends, the most efficient layout options, and the best materials for your needs. Additionally, we ensure that all technical aspects, like precise measurements and weight distributions, are accurately handled.
- Cost-Effectiveness: While it may seem like an additional expense initially, involving professionals can be more cost-effective in the long run. Mistakes often lead to costly alterations post-installation, which can be minimised or avoided altogether with expert input from the start.
Designing a custom wardrobe is not just about creating a space for clothes; it’s about seamlessly integrating this essential piece of furniture into the broader context of your home’s aesthetic and functional layout. When planning your custom wardrobe, considering how it will blend with and enhance your existing spaces is crucial. Here are several key aspects where integration should be a primary focus:
Matching Existing Design Elements:
Your new wardrobe must complement the architectural style and existing design elements of your home. This includes matching mouldings, finishes, and proportions to maintain a cohesive look. For example, if your home features Victorian-style cornices, incorporating similar detailing in the wardrobe ensures it doesn’t look out of place.
Proportions and Scale:
The wardrobe's dimensions should match the room's size. An oversized wardrobe in a small room can make the space feel cramped, whereas a too-small wardrobe in a large room might look inconsequential and underwhelming. Make sure the wardrobe is proportioned to complement the room's scale and offers sufficient storage.
Material Coordination:
Choosing materials that are already present in the room helps in creating a unified look. If your bedroom includes oak wood flooring, consider oak for your wardrobe’s construction or at least as an accent material. Consistency in materials ensures the wardrobe feels like a part of the room, not an afterthought.
Colour Synchronisation:
Colours play a significant role in integration. A wardrobe in a colour that clashes with the room’s palette can be jarring. Select finishes and hues that complement or harmonically contrast with existing colours in the room. Utilising a colour wheel or consulting with a designer can help make informed choices.
Purposeful Design:
Consider the primary use of the room and ensure the wardrobe supports this purpose. For instance, in a bedroom, the wardrobe should not only store clothes but also contribute to a restful environment. Avoid overly bright and distracting colours or materials that might detract from the calmness of the space.
Flow and Accessibility:
The placement of the wardrobe should enhance the room’s flow, not hinder it. Ensure there’s enough space to move around and that the wardrobe doors can open comfortably without obstructing pathways. The internal layout should also be intuitive, allowing easy access to frequently used items while storing away less-used items neatly.
Integrated Lighting:
Incorporating lighting within your wardrobe design can dramatically enhance both its functionality and its aesthetic appeal. LED strips inside the wardrobe or sensor-activated lights can add convenience and a touch of luxury. The choice of lighting should complement the overall lighting design of the room, maintaining consistency in both style and colour temperature.
Smart Storage Solutions:
Modern wardrobes can be equipped with a variety of smart storage solutions, such as built-in charging stations for devices, automated drawers, or specialised compartments for different types of clothing and accessories. These features should be designed to meet the specific needs of the user while maintaining the style and decor of the surrounding space.
Designing a custom wardrobe is a detailed process that balances functionality with aesthetics. This article has highlighted typical errors, including inadequate measurement and layout planning, as well as neglecting the significance of a unified design. By considering individual needs and preferences and sidestepping these common mistakes, you can craft a wardrobe that is not only visually appealing but also highly functional. With our expertise, we aim to ensure that each custom wardrobe we create perfectly marries form and function, tailored to enrich the daily lives of our clients. The secret to a successful custom wardrobe lies in careful planning, intelligent design, and meticulous execution.
Here at Silva Wardrobes, we believe that you shouldn't have to compromise on quality when you’re on a budget. We offer a wide range of built in wardrobe designs in varying materials and finishes, so you can get the perfect built in or walk in wardrobe for your home no matter what the budget you're working with.
Proudly Australian owned and made. All our work is carried out locally in Sydney with only the highest level of craftsmanship and comes with a lifetime guarantee.
Contact us for a free measure and quote in the Sydney metropolitan area. We send out a qualified tradesman, not just a salesman.
We then create all the components to your perfect built in wardrobe to exact specifications using only the highest quality materials
A wardrobe technician will then deliver and install your wardrobe ensuring you are 100% happy with the job before they leave.
