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Grey lacquer built-in wardrobe with study niche

How to design a built-in wardrobe that actually works

A good wardrobe is planned from the inside out. These are the questions our carpenters ask before drawing anything.

By the ECOCYCLE carpentry team · Updated September 2026

1. Sliding or hinged doors?

Sliding doors need no swing space, so they suit smaller bedrooms and rooms where the bed is close to the wardrobe. Hinged doors open the whole wardrobe at once and allow door-mounted accessories. Walk-in closets can have no doors at all, or glass doors to show off bags and shoes.

2. Plan the inside around what you own

  • Long hanging for dresses, abayas and coats
  • Double short hanging for shirts and jackets, which doubles capacity
  • Drawers for folded clothes and accessories
  • Shelves for jumpers and bags
  • Shoe racks, pull-out trouser rails and jewellery trays

Count your items by type before the site visit. It is the fastest way to a layout that fits.

3. Typical dimensions

ElementCommon size
Wardrobe depthAbout 55 to 60 cm for hanging
Long hanging heightAbout 150 to 170 cm clear
Short hanging heightAbout 90 to 105 cm clear
Shelf spacingAbout 30 to 40 cm

These are starting points. We adjust every measurement to your room, ceiling height and clothes.

4. Lighting and finishes

LED strips under shelves or inside the carcass make a wardrobe much easier to use. Finishes can match your doors or kitchen: veneer, lacquer, laminate, mirror or glass with bronze or black frames.

5. Build it to the ceiling

Floor-to-ceiling wardrobes look built-in, avoid dust on top and add valuable storage for suitcases and seasonal items.

Quick answers

How deep should a wardrobe be?

Around 55 to 60 cm is typical for hanging clothes; we adjust to your room.

Are sliding wardrobes good for small rooms?

Yes. They need no swing space, so they work well where the bed is close to the wardrobe.

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