Walk in Wardrobe Ideas: How to Turn a Box Room into a Walk in Wardrobe

If you find yourself with a little spare room in your house that you just don’t know what to do with, this might be the blog post for you. It’s just that little bit too small for a spare bedroom, too awkward for a home office, and let’s be honest, at this point it’s most likely become a glorified dumping ground. So, here’s a clever idea – why not turn it into a walk-in wardrobe? 

Now, we’re not talking Hollywood-style walk-ins with chandeliers and velvet pouffes (though if you can pull that off, we fully support you). This is all about smart, stylish, and practical solutions that will easily work with the average UK home.  

Let’s dive into our guide on how you can transform that space into a wardrobe worthy of your best outfits. 

1.Size doesn’t matter – but planning does 

First things first, don’t be put off by the size. Box rooms vary, but even a space as small as 1.8m x 2m can become a dreamy dressing area, it just takes the right planning. 

Start by measuring everything – and we mean everything, this is so important. You want to check walls, alcoves, ceiling height, even where the light switch is. You’ll need a clear idea of the space so you can take some time to plan your walk-in wardrobe layout properly and avoid any nasty surprises when it comes to fitting in the furniture or rails you’ve already bought. 

A little trick is to use some masking tape on the floor to mark out where things might go – shelving, drawers, mirrors – and get a feel for how you’ll be able to move around the space. 

2. Choose your storage wisely 

Here’s where the fun starts: kitting it out! 

We have so many options at Bensons that would work beautifully in a walk in wardrobe! 

Chests of drawers 

A classic option for heaps of storage and organisation of all things big and small. Whatever design vibe you’re aiming for, we’ll have a set of drawers to match. Our Bexley range would be perfect if you’re going for that classic clean and elegant look, with the gold features adding a touch of class to any room, with the hairpin legs helping to maintain the visual size of the room. We’d recommend checking out the Bexley Tallboy Chest of Drawers if you’re working with a limited space. 

Dressing tables 

These can add a touch of class to your room while also giving you somewhere to sit down and get yourself ready for the day. Our Merton 3 Drawer Dressing Table can work in even the smallest of rooms due to its compact size and neutral colour palette. Pair it with the Merton Stool for that cohesive look. 

Ottoman benches 

An ottoman bench can also work perfectly if you’ve got the space left over, slide it under a window and you’ve got yourself a DIY window seat with plenty of storage space inside. Why not take a look at our Snooze Ottoman Blanket Box, the wooden legs give it that luxurious look and with 9 colours to choose from there’s sure to be something to suit your new walk in wardrobe.  

Now, of course there are other options to kit your new wardrobe out, depending on your budget and DIY confidence: 

Flat-pack or modular systems 

There are tons of options when it comes to flat pack furniture that’s customisable, sturdy, and doesn’t cost a fortune. There’s the ability to mix and match things like rails, shelves, drawers, and even shoe racks, tailoring it to your specific needs.  

Bespoke built-ins 

If you’ve that extra cash to spend on this transformation and really want to maximise every inch, then you may consider getting bespoke fitted wardrobes, dressers etc. There are some beautiful custom solutions, but you’ll often pay a lot more for this tailored craftsmanship. 

Or – and here’s a cheeky hack – if you can find a reliable local joiner. They’ll often do a bespoke job for a fraction of that big-brand price. 

DIY open wardrobe 

For a more budget-friendly look, you could try going for an open-rail and shelving system. This style would include wall-mounted brackets and floating shelves, with a freestanding rail or two. If you’re handy with DIY this could be the route for you, just make sure everything is secured correctly for the appropriate weights of what you’re planning to store. 

Use every inch 

Working with a small room? No problem. Here’s how to make the most of storage options: 

• Go vertical: Use the full height of the room. High shelves are the perfect way to make the most of the room. You can use them to store bags, hats, or anything that you don’t wear regularly. 

• Hooks and rails: There’s so much flexibility, they can go on the back of the door, inside cupboards, or on empty wall space – hooks are your best friend. Use them to hang belts, scarves, bags, jewellery and whatever else you might need. 

• Under-storage: Utilise the space underneath cupboards and wardrobes to house little items that can be kept in easy to access storage boxes. 

• Double hanging: In tall wardrobes, try fitting two rails to make the most of the space – one high, one low – for shirts, blouses, and trousers. You’ll double your hanging space instantly. 

4. Lighting: don’t skip it! 

Lighting within a wardrobe makes a huge difference, you can see what you’re looking at and find things so much easier. No more rummaging around in the dark for a matching sock. 

If your box room has a ceiling light, try swapping out the bulb for something bright and daylight-mimicking. LED strips can be placed under shelves or motion-sensor puck lights inside wardrobes are a brilliant little trick to add more light too. 

Want to go extra fancy? Why not add a lighted mirror to the space, or DIY your own with some fairy lights.  

5. Mirror, mirror... 

A full-length mirror is a must – ideally this should be mounted on the wall or the back of the door to save space. Not only does it help with outfit checks, but it also reflects light and gives that sense of the room feeling bigger than it is. 

If you’ve got the space, a slim freestanding mirror with storage behind it is a clever multi-tasker. 

6. Add a touch of you 

This is the key point where your walk-in wardrobe goes from purely practical to a personal haven. It’s important to add a bit of style that reflects you and makes you love the space: 

• A fluffy rug to your taste for a bit of cosy underfoot 

• Artwork or framed prints personal to you 

• A reed diffuser or candle to keep it smelling fresh and luxurious 

• Some pretty boxes or baskets for those odd bits and bobs 

Remember: this is your space, it should give you those warm happy vibes and personal touches will really make that happen. 

7. Keep it tidy (seriously) 

Once you’ve got it set up, try your best to keep it organised. We know it’s impossible to be clean and tidy 100% of the time but do your best to keep it organised and avoid it becoming the dumping ground once again. 

Invest in some drawer dividers, matching hangers (trust us, it makes everything look neater), and have a serious declutter. If you haven’t worn it in a year, do you really need it?  

Bonus tip: Use the “one in, one out” rule to help stop things from spiralling out of control. 

Walk-in wardrobe ideas: final thoughts  

Turning a box room into a walk-in wardrobe can be a really effective use of wasted space as well as helping to make your mornings easier, your clothes last longer, and your home feel a bit more luxe. Whether you’re choosing to go DIY, splashing out on bespoke fittings, or a bit of both. The key is to make the most of what you’ve got and create a space that works for you. 

So, stop seeing that box room as a problem, and start seeing it as potential for a walk-in wardrobe. Your future, fabulously dressed self will thank you.