Choosing the right wardrobe for your bedroom can be a significant decision. Besides, it's not just about storage but also about aesthetics and functionality. One popular option for many HDB spaces is the open door or hinge-door wardrobe. But is an open door wardrobe a good idea for your space? We'll explore the pros and cons of this storage solution to help you make an informed decision.
The Pros of Open Door Wardrobes
Hinge door wardrobes, also known as traditional wardrobes, are a popular choice for many homeowners. Here are some of the benefits:
- Easy Access. Hinge doors open fully, giving you easy access to your entire wardrobe contents at once. This can make it easier to find and retrieve your clothing.
- Classic Look. Open door wardrobes often have a timeless, classic appearance that suits various interior styles. They can add a touch of elegance to your bedroom.
- Durability. Hinge doors are sturdy and less prone to damage, making them a long-lasting choice for your bedroom.
- Customisation. You can customise the interior of your hinge door wardrobe to suit your specific storage needs, with various shelves, drawers, and hanging spaces.
The Cons of Open Door Wardrobes
While hinge door wardrobes have their merits, they also come with some downsides:
- Space Requirement. Hinge doors swing outwards, requiring additional space in front of the wardrobe. This can be problematic in smaller bedrooms or those with limited floor space.
- Limited Mirrored Options. Sliding door wardrobes are more commonly available with full mirrored doors, which can be a drawback if you desire a mirrored wardrobe.
- Aesthetics and Trend. While the classic look of hinge door wardrobes is timeless, some may prefer the sleek and modern appearance of sliding door wardrobes, which are currently on-trend.
So, is an open door wardrobe a good choice for your small space?
The suitability of a hinge door wardrobe for a small space depends on your individual priorities. A hinge door wardrobe may be a good choice if privacy, a clutter-free look, and reduced dust are paramount. However, it's essential to consider the limitations of space and access that hinge doors bring. If your room's layout can accommodate the swing of the doors, and you're willing to work within those constraints, a hinge door wardrobe can offer an effective and classic storage solution.
How to Style an Open Door Wardrobe If You are Short on Space
Use Vertical Space
To make the most of your open door wardrobe, consider choosing a tall unit that extends all the way to the ceiling. This approach capitalises on the often underutilised upper portions of the room. These high shelves can be dedicated to items you don't require daily access to, such as out-of-season clothing or spare bed linens.
Slimline Hangers
Investing in slimline hangers is a practical solution to optimise your hanging rail's capacity. Their slender design allows you to fit more garments onto the rail, ensuring that no space goes to waste. Additionally, opting for uniform hangers creates a cleaner and more organised look within your open door wardrobe.
Organised Display
An open door wardrobe is not only about storage but also an opportunity for creative display. To keep your accessories, shoes, and folded clothing organised and visually appealing, consider using decorative storage boxes, baskets, and floating shelves. These elements can add a touch of personal style to your wardrobe while ensuring that everything has its designated place.
When you can see your items clearly, it's easier to maintain a sense of order in a limited space.
Colour Coordination
A simple yet effective strategy for maximising both the visual and functional aspects of your open door wardrobe is arranging your clothing by colour. This systematic approach creates an aesthetically pleasing display while also enhancing practicality.
With your clothing sorted by colour, it becomes easier to locate specific items and plan outfits.
Mirrored Back Panels
When dealing with a limited space, creating an illusion of expansiveness is invaluable. Mirrored back panels can serve this dual purpose by reflecting light and making your room appear larger.
In addition to their spatial benefits, mirrors are undeniably functional. They offer the convenience of checking your outfit without leaving the confines of your wardrobe.
Drawer Inserts and Dividers
Small items such as jewellery, socks, and underwear can quickly become disorganised in a cramped wardrobe. Drawer inserts and dividers are indispensable tools for maintaining order in these compact spaces. These accessories help you make the most of every inch within your open door wardrobe, ensuring that no space is wasted.
You can allocate specific sections for different types of items, making them easily accessible and neatly organised.
Seasonal Rotation
If your wardrobe is bursting at the seams, it's time to consider a seasonal rotation. With this approach, you can make the most of your available space without clutter.
Store out-of-season items in vacuum-sealed bags or under the bed, freeing up room for your current-season clothing.
Dual-Purpose Furniture
In a small bedroom, every piece of furniture should contribute to space-saving. Consider incorporating dual-purpose furniture such as a storage ottoman or a bed with built-in drawers. These versatile pieces can significantly reduce clutter in your room by providing additional storage space.
Keep it Minimal
When space is at a premium, the mantra "less is more" holds particular relevance. Being selective with your wardrobe choices and regularly editing your clothing collection can help maintain a streamlined and clutter-free open door wardrobe. Prioritise items that you wear frequently and donate or store clothing that you rarely use.
This minimalist approach ensures that your wardrobe remains functional and visually appealing, even in a confined space.
Takeaway
Styling an open door wardrobe in a small space requires a thoughtful approach. If your space permits and you're ready to tackle some unique ways to maximise its available space, you'll surely enjoy the benefits that it offers. But if you're still looking for a wardrobe to make a clothing organisation a cinch, take a look at Megafurniture's collection of open door wardrobes in Singapore!