Published Date: Aug 21, 2025
Written by: Emma Cyrus, Senior Copy, Content & Editorial Writer
Reviewed by: Sanjay Joshi, Senior Interior Designer at FCI London
Edited by: Zoona Sikander, Interior Design Writer & Social Media Content Creator
Estimated Reading Time: 8 minutes
TLDR: Creating the perfect walk in wardrobe requires balancing space, functionality, and personal style. A minimum of 1.5 x 2 metres works for basic needs, while 2.5 x 3 metres offers comfortable storage for most homeowners. True luxury begins at 4 x 4 metres, allowing for central islands and distinct dressing zones. The key lies in matching your wardrobe size to your lifestyle requirements, storage needs, and available space - rather helpful when transforming daily dressing from chore into pleasure.
Table of Contents
There's a rather telling moment when you realise your beautiful home has fallen victim to the tyranny of inadequate storage. Perhaps it's when your treasured cashmere collection begins resembling an archaeological dig, or when finding a matching pair of cufflinks requires the investigative skills of Sherlock Holmes. The truth is, exceptional wardrobes aren't simply furniture pieces; they're the invisible architects of a well-ordered life. At FCI London, we've spent decades perfecting the art of bespoke storage that marries impeccable functionality with understated luxury. If you want both style and functionality in your bedroom, it’s worth taking the time to design a walk in wardrobe that maximises space while reflecting your personal taste.
This guide distils our expertise into practical wisdom for creating wardrobe solutions that transform not just your bedroom, but your entire daily ritual. Because when storage works seamlessly, life follows suit.
The walk in wardrobe has evolved from a luxury novelty to an essential sanctuary for the discerning homeowner. The question isn't simply about square footage - it's about creating a space that functions as seamlessly as it inspires.
Your walk in wardrobe represents more than storage; it's the stage where you curate your daily presentation to the world. The difference between adequate and exceptional lies not merely in size, but in how thoughtfully that space accommodates your lifestyle and daily rituals.
A functional walk in wardrobe requires a minimum of 1.5 metres by 2 metres - adequate for a capsule wardrobe but limited for expansive collections. A more generous standard, preferred by most homeowners, is around 2.5 by 3 metres. True luxury starts at 4 x 4 metres, which allows for distinct dressing zones, central islands, and personalisation that turns utility into indulgence.
Our team of wardrobe design experts have put together this guide to help you decide the size, shape and format of your open-plan armoire. In this guide, we'll help you determine the best walk in wardrobe size to suit your space and style.
Key Takeaway: Exceptional walk-in wardrobes begin at 1.5 x 2 metres for functional storage, whilst true luxury unfolds at 4 x 4 metres with distinct dressing zones and central islands. The sweet spot for most homeowners sits around 2.5 x 3 metres, marrying generous storage with comfortable movement.
The first step to successfully planning for your walk in wardrobe is determining what you need and want. Your requirements can then be matched to the size of both your room and your budget. These are the most common walk in wardrobe design styles and how much space you would need for each:
This is the smallest and most common design where storage is fitted on a wall opposite an entrance, with a walkway for you to reach your clothes. On average, you will need a minimum length of 1,5 metres and a wardrobe depth of 60 cm. The Pass wardrobe by Jesse fits in nicely with these dimensions.
As the name implies, storage for this concept is placed on opposite walls with a pathway in the middle. You can opt for this style if you have at least 60 cm depth for each closet side and 90cm for the walkway. Porada's My Suite offering is ideal for this type of layout.
Considered a luxury closet, this format elevates the double-sided version by adding a central island, which can provide extra storage or function as a dresser. If this is the style you're after, ensure that there is at least a one-metre clearance on all sides of the island. Take a look at the impressive Venice design by EmmeBi for inspiration.
Beyond layout and storage needs, design success depends on:
Lighting: Incorporate soft LED strip lighting, overhead spotlights, or even motion-activated fixtures for clear visibility and ambience.
Ventilation: Especially important in enclosed walk in wardrobes to prevent moisture buildup, mould, and odour. Consider an extractor fan or louvred doors.
Flooring: Choose easy-to-clean, durable flooring like hardwood, laminate, or carpet tiles to maintain warmth and comfort.
Mirror Placement: Full-length mirrors or mirrored cabinet doors visually expand the space and add functionality.
Security and Locks: For wardrobes storing valuables or designer collections, consider lockable drawers or integrated safes.
Key Takeaway: Match your wardrobe configuration to your lifestyle rather than arbitrary dimensions. Single-sided designs require 60cm depth plus walkway, double-sided layouts need 60cm per side with 90cm passage, whilst island formats demand one-metre clearance on all sides for that coveted luxury feel.
At FCI London, we encourage you to throw your most eccentric wardrobe ideas at us. Built-in dressing room with a privacy door? Absolutely. Fully stocked bar for a pre-function tipple while you get ready?
We can certainly accommodate that! The bottom line? Imagine it, and we'll design it.
There are numerous clever ways to maximise your walk in wardrobe size, regardless of dimensions. From incorporating a foldout bed or an ironing board to adding specialised shelving and furniture, it's an almost limitless endeavour. Here are some ideas to spark your imagination:
Your closet doesn't have to be used exclusively for storage, so why not add some office space? By simply incorporating a desk into the cabinetry, we can create a chic work centre that affords you some peace, surrounded by your most personal things.
For homeowners with plenty to store, we'll help you plan a fitted wardrobe design that uses as much vertical space as possible. Sometimes this could mean adding a stylish ladder to help you reach the top shelves, transforming a practical necessity into an elegant design feature.
If you're all for finding clever ways to enhance your home, why not let us convert your mudroom into a walk in wardrobe? Instead of just an area where you ditch your dirty shoes, we'll build you a compartment for hanging extra clothing and changing out of your garden apparel.
When we sit with you for a design consultation, our goal is to extract every inch of storage from your space. And, during our 30-year track record of creating custom cabinetry, we've never encountered a request that we couldn't fulfil. So, bombard us with your dream concepts and let's make them a reality.
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Key Takeaway: Your walk-in wardrobe needn't be purely utilitarian. Transform it into a multi-functional sanctuary with integrated work stations, accessible vertical shelving with elegant ladders, or even convert an underused mudroom into a proper dressing space.
Commissioning a walk in wardrobe can do wonders for the organisation and functionality of your home, allowing you to sort and store your belongings neatly and more effectively.
Having easy access to your garments, accessories, and shoes makes selecting outfits much quicker. Just imagine, no more wasting precious morning minutes rummaging through tightly packed piles of clothes whilst trying to assemble the perfect ensemble.
The generous walk in wardrobe size also allows your possessions to breathe and hang freely. This means they will be less prone to creasing and damage and, if properly ventilated, will not be susceptible to mildew and mould. In fact, you'll be pleasantly surprised by how much fresher your garments will stay, saving you time on excess washing and ironing.
Lastly, a modern, luxury home without a walk in wardrobe will fetch less on the property market than houses that have one. So, if you have available space, we suggest you invest - in terms of added value, it's really a no-brainer.
Key Takeaway: Beyond superior organisation and time-saving morning routines, walk-in wardrobes add measurable property value whilst protecting your garments through proper ventilation and spacing. Consider it an investment in both your daily ritual and your home's market appeal.
Designing a walk in wardrobe isn't merely about square footage; it's about harmonising practicality with the rituals and rhythms of your day. A truly bespoke solution reflects how you live, dress, and evolve. The design of your walk in wardrobe will mainly depend on the following:
For example, if you have minimal storage needs and ample space, we can add a dresser inside your walk in where you can do your hair and make-up. We could also include a peninsula with a laundry station.
When it comes to the layout, consider whether your room is better suited to the more modest single-sided closet or the premium wrap-around walk in wardrobe design. Once you've figured out your space constraints, storage needs and ideal functionality, the fun part of choosing materials and colours begins.
Whilst the basic structure of our wardrobes is always the same, we offer a wide range of door handles, interior options, and door wraps to choose from. This includes melamine, matt or gloss lacquer, wood veneer, clear or painted glass, mirror or leather.
All our materials are available in different colours, so complementing your home's decor will be a breeze. The wardrobe depth can also be customised to accommodate different types of clothing and accessories, ensuring everything has its perfect place.
Key Takeaway: Successful wardrobe design harmonises your storage requirements with available space and budget, then elevates functionality through thoughtful material selection. From melamine simplicity to leather luxury, the customisation options ensure your wardrobe complements your home's aesthetic whilst serving your practical needs.
The cost of a walk in wardrobe varies with each unique design and the size of the wardrobe.
All our frames are made from the same high-quality material. However, each customisation option in terms of materials, colours and finishes will increase the price on a sliding price scale depending on what combination you select.
Our range of offerings allows us to cater for entry-level projects right up to premium luxury walk ins. The most affordable is a one-sided, 2-door, standard-size unit with a melamine finish, which, although simpler, still delivers on quality and aesthetics.
You can compare the prices of different designs by making use of our online cost calculator. It will give you an idea of what you can expect to pay based on your inputs.
However, an in-person conversation with our team is an invaluable way to get a better understanding of your options beyond just the cost. To do this, book a consultation with us today to discuss your design vision. As with all bespoke solutions, it's not just about what it costs - but how well it will serve you over time. Consider not just materials and layout, but how the space will adapt as your lifestyle changes.
The installation time varies based on complexity:
Standard designs (single-sided units) may take 1-2 weeks, including measurement, manufacturing, and fitting.
Custom layouts with premium finishes, islands, or complex joinery may take 3-5 weeks, especially if material imports or special finishes are involved.
Pre-installation steps include space measurement, design consultation, 3D visual planning, and budget approval.
Tip: Always book an in-person consultation to streamline timelines and clarify expectations.
Pros
Cons
Key Takeaway: Installation timelines range from one to two weeks for standard designs, extending to three to five weeks for complex bespoke layouts with premium finishes. Costs vary considerably based on materials and complexity, making an in-person consultation invaluable for understanding not just the price, but how well your investment will serve you over time.
What's the minimum space needed for a functional walk in wardrobe?
A minimum of 1.5 x 2 metres provides adequate space for a single-sided walk in wardrobe. This allows for 60cm hanging depth and a comfortable 90cm walkway. For couples or larger wardrobes, 2.5 x 3 metres offers considerably more storage and movement space.
Can I install a walk in wardrobe in a small bedroom?
Absolutely! Our design team specialises in maximising compact spaces through clever layouts. Corner configurations, single-sided designs, or converting existing alcoves can create surprisingly spacious walk in wardrobes even in modest bedrooms.
How much does a bespoke walk in wardrobe typically cost?
Costs vary significantly based on size, materials, and complexity. Entry-level designs start from affordable melamine finishes, whilst premium luxury wardrobes with islands and premium materials command higher investment. Our online cost calculator provides tailored estimates for your specific requirements.
What's the difference between fitted wardrobes and walk in wardrobes?
walk in wardrobes create a separate dressing space you can enter, offering 360-degree storage and room for dressing. Fitted wardrobes are built into bedroom walls with external access only. walk ins provide superior organisation and the luxury of a dedicated dressing area.
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FCI London, Rays House, North Circular Road, London, NW10 7XP
Monday - Saturday: 10am - 6pm
Sunday & Bank Holidays: 11am - 5pm
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Phone: +442081531235
Email: [email protected]
What to Bring:
The perfect walk-in wardrobe transcends mere square footage, transforming daily dressing from a mundane task into a curated ritual. Whether you're working with a modest 1.5 x 2 metre space or indulging in a 4 x 4 metre sanctuary, success lies in matching dimensions to your lifestyle whilst incorporating thoughtful lighting, ventilation, and bespoke storage solutions. At FCI London, we've spent nearly four decades perfecting the art of marrying impeccable functionality with understated luxury, because when storage works seamlessly, life follows suit.
"I had an excellent experience with FCI. Their showroom offers an impressive selection of high-quality furniture and top international brands. The team provided outstanding service - knowledgeable, attentive, and genuinely helpful."
- Zlata Rybchenko
"We had inbuilt furniture done in three bedrooms by FCI London, and honestly, we couldn't be happier with the results. The quality of their work is just next level. The furniture is solid, beautifully made."
- Linda Nobilio
"Service was personalised and excellent. Sanjay saw us through the process from start to end, ensuring that we were happy with our choices. The delivery guys were amazing and went the extra mile."
- Chava Kahn
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