Clutter means chaos so banish it with built-ins, tallboys and armoires.
An ordered space is a calm space, and nowhere in the home does calm come at such a premium as in the bedroom. Clothes, bags, shoes, books and much more all need a place here, preferably out of sight. You can never have enough storage in a bedroom and with some clever planning you can ensure that clutter is kept to a minimum.
The ideal storage scenario for a main bedroom consists of a built-in wardrobe, a walk-in wardrobe or a dressing room, plus a handsome tallboy, dresser or armoire. Built-in custom joinery is practical and well worth the investment because it can be designed to suit your storage needs perfectly. And adding a piece of freestanding furniture gives the room an interesting focal point.
Furniture manufacturers are focused on finding ways to address storage needs, including beds with under mattress storage, bedheads that incorporate shelving and blanket boxes that double as a place to sit. We see an increased demand for furniture that is not only beautifully designed but offers as much storage as possible.
Here are some tips for creating custom joinery in the bedroom:
- Have a budget and stick to it.
- Choose a style of joinery that suits the era and style of your home.
- Do not skimp on hanging space in a walk-in robe. You can always add a dresser space, but you can’t add extra hanging space later.
- If you need to store suitcases, continue the joinery to the ceiling and keep them behind closed doors.
BEDROOM EYES
In many bedrooms, the bed occupies a fair percentage of the floor area. To maximise the space you have, gas-lift storage beds or fully upholstered beds with drawers in the base are a great choice. If you prefer timber suites, choose one with storage drawers. When it comes to bedroom storage, opt for drawers. While bedside cabinets with ample drawer and shelf space remain popular, smaller, lighter styles are also gaining ground because they’re easier than ever to incorporate.
BUILT-IN BLISS
Built-in wardobes are optimal when you’re designing or renovating a main bedroom. Depending on the look you’re after, you can design your wardrobe to be a ‘secret’ addition to a bedroom by having it in the same colour as the wall or make a feature of it by choosing a contrasting material or finish.
In the last few years homeowners have realised that while well-crafted built-in wardrobes may cost more than freestanding storage, they don’t date, the quality is superior and they add value to a house. When you’re planning a built-in or walk-in wardrobe, ensure you know the dimensions of your room, including all skirting boards and cornices. Joinery is expensive, no matter who the supplier is, but if you get the design right at the outset you’ll have no regrets.
MATERIAL WORLD
Your aim should always be maximise storage without compromising usable bedroom space. Floor-to-ceiling joinery allows you to achieve this. Full extension drawers, a mainstay in kitchen islands and bathroom vanities, are now also appearing in walk-in wardrobes and dressing rooms, allowing you to see all your socks, smalls and t-shirts.
Remember, too, that built-ins can look out of place in certain period homes and some bedrooms just don’t have enough space for them. In that case, look for quality furniture with the right storage. A freestanding wardrobe or chest of drawers can be a beautiful addition.