Are Walk-in Wardrobes Better?

There are so many different options when it comes to fitted wardrobes, which begs the important question: Are walk-in wardrobes better?

The bottom line is that many people overlook the numerous advantages of walk-ins because they are concerned that they take up too much space and will cost a fortune. However, if you choose the right concept and layout, they can significantly increase the value of any home.

Picking the correct walk-in wardrobe design that both looks good and incorporates flexible, creative storage solutions is as crucial as choosing the right décor for your ensuite. So if you’re looking to both upgrade your bedroom and contain your expanding collection of clothing, it’s good to know your options.

As experts in conceptualising, designing and installing bespoke cabinetry, our FCI London design team has put together this guide which outlines why walk-in wardrobes are the ultimate choice.

1. What are the benefits of walk-in wardrobes?

You might feel that designing a walk-in wardrobe is either too expensive or very complicated, but there is a growing list of reasons why they have become a norm in new home designs and are quickly gaining popularity in many UK bedrooms.

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Here are 5 benefits that will change your mind.

Increased functionality

Aside from being a practical choice, walk-ins are custom-made to suit your specific needs. This allows you to incorporate regular components like hanging rails, drawers, shelving, shoe racks and accessory compartments as well as more opulent features.

For example, you may like to add an island-style laundry area where you can iron or fold your clothing or a dressing room with a makeup station replete with full-length mirrors and ambient lighting.

These additions will definitely bring a touch of extra extravagance to your lifestyle while significantly increasing the market appeal of your home should you ever plan to sell.

Optimal clothing care

Closed wardrobe doors leave your clothing susceptible to humidity issues which can lead to damaging mildew and mould. This is especially common if you have a built-in wardrobe near an ensuite where extra moisture can get trapped in confined spaces that don’t have enough airflow.

Walk-in wardrobes are usually fitted with a ventilation system or have enough windows to allow any moisture to circulate and disperse, leaving your clothes protected and smelling lovely. This environment is also particularly beneficial for leather items which need breathing room in order to be properly maintained.

Because of their larger size, walk-ins also protect your clothing from getting crushed.

Cost efficiency

One of the most unexpected advantages of designing a walk-in wardrobe is that it is sometimes less expensive to construct than its regular built-in wardrobe counterparts. This largely depends on the type of finishes and interior systems you put in place but is also primarily due to the fact that you are able to omit the additional cost of doors.

As walk-in wardrobes are also normally installed in available spaces like spare rooms or vacant areas under the stairs, there is also often less structural work involved, which definitely is an advantage if you have a tighter budget.

Extra floor space

Due to the absence of outward-opening doors, a walk-in wardrobe allows you to lessen the amount of bedroom floor area it consumes. It can also be built in any format including square or L-shaped, giving you the freedom to create a unique interior arrangement that will accommodate all of your clothing and accessories with ease.

As it is contained in its own space, it also allows you to utilise high storage areas without compromising the overall design of your bedroom.

Aesthetic appeal

There’s no doubt about it, walk-in wardrobes are more luxurious than fitted wardrobes and way surpass them in terms of comfort, extravagance and accessibility. This makes them a worthwhile option if you’re refurbishing your home.

2. How can you style a walk-in wardrobe for a cohesive look in your bedroom?

Because a walk-in wardrobe is a permanent fixture, it is important to make sure that you get the design perfect and then future-proof it so that it remains attractive and stylish for at least a decade. Here are 4 tips that will help you achieve this.

• Colours and finishes: Walk-in wardrobes are available in a vast array of colours and finishes to suit both your genre and budget and should be designed to fit in seamlessly with the décor in the rest of your bedroom and ensuite. For closed sections or panelling, choose glass for a contemporary look or classic wood if you are trying to achieve a more traditional aesthetic.
• Wardrobe Systems: From central islands and peninsulas to drawers, laundry areas, make-up stations, single-sided storage solutions and dressing rooms, there are almost limitless options when it comes to the planning of your walk-in wardrobe. Many of these depend on your available space and how much money you’re willing to spend, so it’s advisable to meet with a reputable interior design company with years of experience in custom-made cabinetry before settling on a final concept. Hint: that's us!
• Illumination: Custom lighting is a crucial component in the overall plan of your walk-in and can improve both its atmosphere and usability. There are several options that could fit your needs and preferences including chandeliers, track lighting and pendant lamps.
• Flooring: If your walk-in wardrobe is adjacent to your bedroom, consider extending your current flooring style throughout both areas for a more cohesive look.

With over three decades in the interiors industry, FCI London has an experienced, on-hand wardrobe team that will ensure your needs are met from the initial planning and design phase all the way through to installation. We’ll be able to advise you on the best way forward when it comes to both budget and style. Get in touch for an obligation-free consultation and let’s get the ball rolling.

3. Tips for keeping your walk-in wardrobe organised

A decent walk-in wardrobe requires careful planning and an understanding of your exact requirements. This should be the first step in your design process. Here are some practical options that will help your space look functional, well organized and clutter-free.

• Take into account which garments you use the most and keep them accessible while storing seasonal apparel out of the way until needed.
• Think about designating an area for long dresses and coats and double up short rails for shirts and slacks.
• If you own a large collection of shoes, adequate storage is essential, and you should be able to view them at a glance.
• It is also crucial to include shelving for handbags and other larger items like hats and blankets.
• Drawers also come in very handy for storing little things that you might not want on display but still need close at hand.
• Consider using adjustable shelves so that you can alter the space as needed for the items you want to fold.
• If you have ample space, a vanity, dressing table, luxury sofa, ottoman or full-length mirror are all elements that will add a touch of style to the interior of your walk-in.
• If the internal dimensions of your wardrobe are more limited, use clever systems like baskets, rails and bins to mitigate any possible clutter.
• Modify awkward nooks and corners to make the most of available space and remember that the higher your ceiling, the more storage options you will have.
• Keep a stylish step stool available so that you can access all your top shelves.
• Make the most of natural light by ensuring that you keep your windows unblocked and remember to include power outlets, airflow systems and any other features that will enhance your lifestyle.

In Conclusion

If you adore fashion, have a penchant for style love and are keen to up the overall value of your home, a walk-in wardrobe is the best investment you’ll ever make. At FCI London we’re specialists when it comes to bespoke cabinetry and will help assess your space and design the optimal cabinetry, transforming your bedroom into a masterpiece.

If you would like to find out more in regards to how our walk-in wardrobes could be the best option for you, please reach out to us via our 'Book an Appointment' form.