Short on clothing space? These space‑saving wardrobe ideas are tailored for small bedrooms and compact homes across Perth and Western Australia. Whether you’re planning a quick refresh or a full renovation with custom cabinetry WA, this guide covers smart layouts, materials, costs, and the practical steps Joyce Kitchens uses to deliver durable, beautiful results.
Space‑Saving Wardrobe Ideas That Actually Work
From small wardrobe storage ideas to clever closet organization ideas for small closets, these tips help you turn a tight closet in the room into a streamlined, easy‑to‑use space.
1) Go vertical: double‑hang and use the full height
- Double‑hang rails (one at ~1000 mm, one at ~1800 mm) instantly double your hanging capacity.
- Add a top shelf set 300–350 mm below the ceiling for luggage, linens and seasonal boxes.
- Use pull‑down lift rails in short users’ bedrooms to reach higher hanging zones.
2) Switch to space saver wardrobe doors
- Sliding doors eliminate door swing, perfect for small wardrobes for small bedrooms.
- Pocket doors slide into the wall—handy when a desk or bed sits close by.
- Mirror panels reflect light to make small rooms feel larger and brighter.
3) Drawer‑first storage
- Shallow drawers (120–180 mm) keep tees, gym gear and small wardrobe items tidy.
- Felt or timber dividers stop “jumble drawer syndrome”.
- Soft‑close runners and Blum/Häfele hardware improve everyday use and longevity.
4) Short closet storage (kids’ rooms and low ceilings)
- Install lower rails at 900–1200 mm for children’s reach, with adjustable shelves above.
- Use shallow shoe drawers under hanging to capture hard‑to‑use kick space.
5) Corners and awkward niches
- Corner hanging with off‑set rails or an L‑shaped shelf returns lost “dead corner” volume.
- Use 300–400 mm deep tower shelves in narrow alcoves for a small closet that still feels generous.
6) Pull‑outs that punch above their weight
- Pull‑out trouser racks, belt/tie trays and shoe shelves turn tight gaps into premium storage.
- Over‑door hooks and inside‑door organisers are low‑cost, small closet ideas DIY that work.
7) Lighting and mirrors
- LED strip lighting under shelves improves visibility without heat build‑up.
- Full‑height mirrors on sliding or hinged doors extend sightlines in wardrobes for small bedrooms.
8) Slimline hangers and seasonal rotation
- Uniform slim hangers add 20–30% capacity versus bulky wood hangers.
- Box up seasonal items on the top shelf to free everyday access zones.
9) Integrate a mini dresser
In a walk‑in robe or compact built‑in, a 400–500 mm deep dressing bench keeps makeup and accessories contained. For durability, a laminate benchtop is affordable; for luxe, consider an engineered stone benchtop (see comparison below).
Definition: What is a wardrobe “carcass”?
The carcass is the cabinet box—sides, back and shelves—typically made from melamine‑faced board. Doors, drawers and hardware fit onto the carcass.
Definition: Melamine vs Thermolaminate vs 2‑pack
Melamine is a hardwearing, budget‑friendly board finish. Thermolaminate (vinyl wrap) is a flexible film pressed over profiled doors. 2‑pack polyurethane is a painted, baked finish available in any colour, including classic Shaker profiles.
Our Design‑to‑Install Wardrobe Renovation Process
Joyce Kitchens brings the same craftsmanship we apply to a shaker kitchen, laundry renovation or bathroom renovations Perth to your wardrobe project. Here’s how it works:
- Measure & brief: We assess room size, ceiling height (commonly 2400–2700 mm in WA), door clearances and existing electrics.
- Design & 3D: We provide options for reach‑in built‑ins or walk‑in robes (WIR), including drawer internals and lighting.
- Selections: Choose doors, finishes and hardware—from durable melamine to 2‑pack, soft‑close hinges and LED strip lighting.
- Quotation & schedule: Transparent pricing with expected lead times for Perth metro.
- Manufacture: Precision‑made custom cabinetry WA, with attention to robust carcass construction.
- Install & handover: Clean, efficient installation; we align to relevant AS/NZS guidance for cabinet construction and good practice. We also encourage following HIA and Master Builders WA recommendations.
Materials & Finishes for Perth Homes
Perth’s warm climate and coastal conditions call for finishes that resist heat and UV. Here’s how popular options stack up for small wardrobe ideas.
Door and carcass finishes
- Melamine: Budget‑friendly, tough and stable; ideal for internals and minimalist doors.
- Thermolaminate (vinyl wrap): Great for profiled doors; keep away from prolonged radiant heat (e.g., west‑facing windows without protection).
- 2‑pack polyurethane: Premium painted finish, perfect for a Hamptons or Shaker look to echo a shaker kitchen style across your home.
- Solid timber: Natural character; requires sealing and can move with humidity—best for feature doors rather than internals.
Dresser/Make‑up surfaces: Engineered Stone vs Laminate
| Benchtop | Pros | Considerations | Typical Use in Wardrobes | Cost (installed) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Engineered stone benchtop | Heat and stain resistant, premium look, colour consistency | Higher cost, heavier, needs templating | Make‑up bench, jewellery drawers top, luxe WIR islands | $$$ |
| Laminate benchtop | Budget‑friendly, huge design range, easy to clean | Less heat resistance, visible joins on some profiles | Compact dresser tops in small wardrobes for small bedrooms | $ |
Note: If your wardrobe shares a wall with an ensuite, we can coordinate finishes across kitchen renovations Perth, bathroom vanities and robes for a cohesive look.
Layouts & Styles for Small Rooms
Best layouts for wardrobe ideas for small spaces
- Reach‑in built‑in (BIR): 600–650 mm deep, sliding doors, double‑hang plus 2–3 drawers—ideal space saving wardrobe for most small bedrooms.
- Compact walk‑in robe: Galley or L‑shape with a 900 mm walkway; mix of short hanging and shelves.
- Niche or alcove fit‑outs: Custom carcasses to awkward widths; better than freestanding “space saver wardrobe” units which waste sides and top clearance.
Styles that lift a small space
- Shaker doors in satin white for a timeless, brighter look—ties neatly to a shaker kitchen elsewhere in the home.
- Contemporary flat‑panel melamine in soft greys and warms whites.
- Mirror sliders for tight rooms with minimal natural light.
- Timber accents (oak‑look melamine) for warmth without the maintenance of solid timber.
Costs in Perth: What to Budget
Prices vary with size, internals and finish. As a guide for Perth metro:
- Small reach‑in built‑in (2 doors, drawers, double‑hang): $2,500–$5,000 incl. GST.
- Compact walk‑in robe with drawers, shoe tower, LED lighting: $6,000–$12,000.
- Premium finishes (2‑pack doors, engineered stone benchtop to dresser): +$1,500–$4,000.
- Add‑ons: LED strip lighting, mirror doors, pull‑outs, wardrobe safe: $300–$2,000.
Lead times typically 3–6 weeks for manufacture plus 1–2 days install, depending on scope and season.
WA Case Examples
Case 1: Subiaco apartment – small closet, big upgrade
Brief: A small closet in the room with 2100 mm width and sliding doors. Solution: Double‑hang rails, four shallow drawers, pull‑out shoe shelves, mirror sliders. Result: 35% more hanging, 2 m² of extra shelf area, brighter room feel.
Case 2: Fremantle cottage – short closet storage for a kid’s room
Brief: Low ceiling (2300 mm) and shallow nib walls. Solution: 550 mm deep carcass, lower rail at 1000 mm, adjustable tower shelves, inside‑door organisers and LED strips. Result: Easy access for a growing child; clear floor space regained.
Practical Checklist: Plan Your Small Wardrobe
- Measure width, depth and ceiling height; note power points and skirting returns.
- List clothing types by percentage (e.g., 60% hanging, 30% folded, 10% shoes).
- Choose door style: sliding, hinged or pocket (consider bed and door clearances).
- Decide finishes: melamine for internals; Shaker or flat‑panel for doors; mirror where helpful.
- Lock in hardware: soft‑close drawers, quality runners, lift‑down rails if needed.
- Add lighting and a mirror for organisation and a bigger‑feeling space.
- Consider a small dresser top—laminate for value, engineered stone benchtop for durability.
- Confirm timeline and installer access/parking for your Perth property.
Ready to turn your small closet into a highly organised space? Book a design consultation with Joyce Kitchens—your local team for wardrobes, kitchen renovations Perth, bathroom renovations Perth and laundry renovation projects.
FAQ
What is the best way to maximise a small wardrobe?
Double‑hang rails, add shallow drawers with dividers, use the full height with a top shelf, swap to slim hangers, add LED strip lighting and consider mirror sliding doors to free floor space.
Are sliding or hinged doors better for small bedrooms?
Sliding doors save 600–700 mm of swing clearance and suit tight rooms, while hinged doors give full interior access. Pocket doors are a neat compromise where wall space allows.
What materials suit Perth’s heat for wardrobe doors and internals?
Melamine internals are stable and durable; 2‑pack doors offer premium looks. Use thermolaminate away from strong radiant heat. Solid timber can move with humidity; ensure good sealing and ventilation.
How much does a small built‑in wardrobe cost in Perth?
As a guide, a two‑door built‑in with drawers and double‑hang starts around $2,500–$5,000 installed, with compact walk‑ins from $6,000–$12,000 depending on finishes and accessories.
Can I DIY small closet organization or should I go custom?
Small closet ideas DIY—like over‑door racks and flat‑pack shelves—are fine for quick wins. For long‑term value and maximum capacity, custom cabinetry WA gives a better fit, finish and warranty.

