Armoires and Wardrobes: Closet Storage Ideas and Solutions

Solve the problem of limited storage with a freestanding closet.

Traditional bedroom with wood furniture, hardwood floor and rug, side tables with lamps, and sitting area.

Traditional Bedroom

Photo courtesy SLP

Photo by: John Grow / Cheryl Gray

John Grow / Cheryl Gray

Photo courtesy SLP
By: Jennifer Crutchfield

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Armoires and wardrobes can rescue you from limited storage space. Whether you live in an old house or have found the perfect urban apartment you may be faced with small or almost nonexistent closets that present a practical and design challenge as you face your storage needs for clothes and accessories.

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The word armoire comes from the French word for a standing closet used for storing clothes. Armoires and wardrobes often have hanging spaces, sliding shelves and drawers. They are tall pieces of furniture and can be difficult to move up and down stairs but are usually beautiful and well crafted. A small investment at your local hardware store can turn the inside of an armoire or wardrobe into a well-organized closet storage system.

The drawers are great for storing socks, blankets and out-of-season clothes. Often the inside of an armoire or wardrobe will have a small rod that extends the width of the piece but may not be the best use of the space. Consider installing double rods on the left and right sides that extend the depth of the sides and allow space to hang blouses and skirts or pants.

Armoires and wardrobes can provide auxiliary closet space in adult bedrooms, children's bedrooms and bathrooms, and can even be effective in kitchens or laundry rooms. Retailers have a wide variety of armoires and wardrobes provide maximum storage while retaining the unique look of the old style.

Whether you are searching flea markets, online retailers or weekend yard sales you can find attractive and practical ways to increase the storage in all of your home's spaces.

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