Is a Walk-In Wardrobe or Built-In Wardrobes Better for Your Home?
If you are renovating your bedroom or just moving, you need to know how to choose the best wardrobe for your home. You might be excited about other things first, like buying a new bed or a mirror, but the wardrobe is an important part of a bedroom and of a house altogether. Many people like a walk-in wardrobe because it’s luxurious, while other people prefer built-in wardrobes because they maximise space. But, other people, like me a few months ago, don’t even know the difference between the two. This article is here to explain these options and help you choose.
Consider the Space and Layout The first thing that you need to consider is the space and the layout of the room. A walk-in wardrobe typically requires a dedicated area that is large enough to move around comfortably. This usually means at least 1.5 to 2 metres. This space can be created by either converting a spare room, reconfiguring a large bedroom, or building a partitioned area. While this setup does feel sophisticated, it may not be practical in smaller homes. Which is why you want to start by being aware of how many meters you have available.
With built-in wardrobes you don’t need as much additional space, which is why a common pick. They are designed to fit neatly along existing walls or around architectural features such as sloped ceilings. This is why they are an amazing option if the bedroom is not exactly big or has an unconventional layout. If space is a priority, but you still want a nice wardrobe, this option could potentially check all your boxes. To put it simply, one is perfect for bigger spaces, while the other fits into smaller and irregular spaces.
The Storage Capacity and Organization Both options offer great storage, but the way in which it’s organised is slightly different. First of all, a walk-in wardrobe allows you to store items on multiple walls. Because of this, you can have a combination of shelves, hanging rails, drawers and even shoe racks. This kind of layout makes it easier to categorise your clothes and accessories. You have a clear overview of everything that’s inside and can easily pick the items you want to wear. If you have enough space, it can even act as a private dressing area. Now, built-in wardrobes rely on vertical and horizontal optimisation. That’s some of the most common features that you will find are: • • • • •
Overhead storage Double hanging rails Corner units Pull-out drawers Adjustable shelves
Organisation plays an important role when choosing furniture for your house. Every piece that you choose should be part of the beautiful whole that you try to create. But it also depends on how much space you have and how much storage you need. A poorly planned wardrobe can ruin the entire room. So, make sure to measure and to be aware of all of the clothes and accessories that you have.
Cost and Installation Differences The cost is one of the many elements that people consider when choosing between any two options, not just wardrobes. A walk-in wardrobe will always be more expensive, because there is more work and materials needed. You need new walls, lights, doors and ventilation to be added. The work of the construction crew is more complex, which is why the price will be higher. On the other hand, built-in wardrobes are cheaper because it uses the structure that’s already present. Installation is usually quicker and less disruptive, especially when wardrobes are fitted wall-to-wall or floor-to-ceiling. The price will, of course, depend on the materials used. It’s a known fact that options have advantages and disadvantages and have a great appeal to them. A walk-in wardrobe will feel extravagant and attract buyers in high-end markets, while
built in wardrobes appeal to a broader audience due to their practicality. I’m not saying that you should think about what other people like or don’t like; but just so you have an idea about the value of your choice. So, if it’s important to you that the option you choose will sell well later, you might want to invest in the walk-in option.
Lifestyle and Daily Use Your lifestyle plays an essential role in what you are going to choose. A wardrobe in walk into creates a separate dressing space, which can help reduce clutter and noise in the bedroom. This is appealing for couples with different routines, as one person can access clothing without disturbing the other. Built-in wardrobes allow for quick and convenient access. If efficiency matters in your household, you probably like what you are hearing. As an example, when I analysed these options, I knew that I wanted to be able to grab my clothes and go. Something else that you should consider is maintenance. If you are willing, and have time, to clean and organise a new small room, you know what you need to choose. But if you want the option that looks tidy with minimal effort, mainly because you close the doors, you can start looking for the best space for the built-in. There are many things that you need to think about, but this process ensures that, at the end of the day, you spent your money on the wardrobe that will bring the most value to both your life and your house.
Conclusion
No matter which of the two options you decide upon, they both have their advantages and disadvantages. You could start by taking a walk around the bedroom to see what the space allows you to choose. You should also be aware of your budget, and understand that the cost can differ a lot. Keep in mind how many clothes you have to store, because this is an important factor too. The choice comes down to a bigger space with more storage, but higher and harder to keep clean, and a smaller storage, lower price and easier to maintain.
