The chaos of clothes, shoes, bags, and accessories is easier to corral with a walk-in closet. Although these larger closets give you more space, they’re still fairly easy to become disorganized. Fortunately, you can DIY your closet makeover by implementing a few simple design upgrades. If you’re looking for some inspiration, check out these IKEA walk-in closet ideas to help you create your very own custom-built look that will make it much easier to keep everything neatly in its place.
Dividers and Drawers Elevate Any Closet
Although this is a smaller closet, it’s still stylish and tidy thanks to the wooden “dividers” and iconic IKEA PAX frames. At the bottom, several slide-out shelves offer a convenient place to store and grab shoes or bags. The layer underneath also features matching drawers that not only add extra storage but also serve as a built-in dresser, so less-used items stay neatly folded and hidden from view, yet easy to grab when you need them.
This is an excellent example of a beautiful, stylish walk-in closet makeover. You can easily customize your own closet using a variety of individual PAX units from IKEA. Here, a large glass shelf adds a modern touch, while several drawers with clear fronts give you a quick glimpse into what’s inside. What really makes this beautiful IKEA PAX closet so impressive is the size. Rather than having a closet just to organize and store your shoes and clothing, the amount of floor space makes this a cozy, roomy dressing room where you can spend more time “shopping” your closet to choose the perfect outfit.
Although this particular closet has an unusual shape, the homeowner was still able to create a custom look that gives them more than enough storage for everything they use. Although this example features the top shelf holding several wine bottles, it can easily be used for anything you need to stow away. Note how the homeowner added a rail at the top and bottom sections of the closet so there’s more space to hang clothes instead of just one single layer. Remember, it’s easy to personalize your own IKEA closet by using several smaller modules to fit your needs.
If you have a spare bedroom and an overabundance of clothes and shoes, why not transform the space into a roomy walk-in closet? This example features IKEA’s PAX system and Komplement shelves for a beautifully organized space. The window fills this area with loads of natural light, but you could also install a light fixture if you need some extra brightness. In this room, a small, blue oval-shaped ottoman by the window provides a spot to sit and relax or take off your shoes. Remember to add some decor and accessories, like a lamp, a potted plant, or even some artwork, to make your closet even more unique.
This closet features a narrow, galley-style layout, but that didn’t stop the homeowner from creating a stylish custom closet with IKEA’s PAX wardrobe. A simple, modern wall mirror not only gives you a place to check your outfit, but it also makes this DIY walk-in closet look and feel a bit larger. The plethora of pull-out drawers adds lots of hidden storage space, while keeping the room from feeling too cramped or overcrowded. This design is a good example of a DIY closet that ensures you maximize every available square inch.
If you don’t want to go overboard with your walk-in wardrobe, consider adding some curtains instead of a solid door. This is a smart and easy design hack that gives you quick access to your items, but it also hides everything neatly when you don’t need the closet. In this home, the tall semi-sheer curtains lend the bedroom a soft, romantic aesthetic. Not only is using drapes less costly than a door, but it also gives you endless opportunities to change things up whenever you want by swapping them out with something in another fabric, color, or pattern for an instant refresh.
Designing a DIY IKEA closet means that you can add virtually anything you like in any size and style. If you adore a modern look, try a closet system with clean lines and neutral colors. Although several IKEA PAX units come in white, other hues like black and natural wood are available as well, giving you more flexibility over the final look. Make sure you explore different IKEA PAX wardrobes before settling on the final design so it suits your home’s style and gives you the aesthetic you’re aiming for.
Despite its size, this small walk in closet is beautifully organized with the PAX wardrobe system. A couple of closet rods keep your favorite pieces of clothes organized, while the drawers provide a versatile storage solution to simplify the space. Smaller cubbies near the top also give you a handy place for some shoes or bags, proving that you can still have a beautiful closet with lots of practicality. White sliding doors that match the inside of this closet add the perfect finishing touch.
Let’s face it: not every closet is a perfect square or rectangle. Many walk-in closets are added to homes after they were built, which means they’re typically placed in the corner of a bedroom. You don’t have to be a professional organizer to make the most of spaces like this. Install drawers and shelving to keep everything in its place, and install a few rods for additional hanging space.
Not every home has a massive closet, but that’s perfectly fine if you utilize the space wisely. Consider watching a tutorial video for tips and inspiration on how to keep a slightly smaller wardrobe area organized. Since this example has an entire wall with nothing on it, drill a wall hook or a few of them if you want a place to hang some coats, jackets, or bags to get even more use out of the amount of space you have. The framed artwork here adds a nice personal touch.
While some closets are wide and have tons of horizontal space, that’s not always the case. As you ponder how to implement creative wardrobe ideas for something more narrow, consider how much vertical space you have. For example, in this closet, the lower section features several drawers, while hanging rods above offer two layers of storage to keep clothes close at hand. If you want to store seasonal clothing away from everything else, try a wall rack or some bins and baskets to keep them nearby but also out of sight.
This simple, organized walk-in closet is accented with a tall, slender window that not only brings in more light but also helps it feel bright, open, and airy. A small stool offers a quick place to sit, while lots of shelves, rods, and drawers make this part of the home an organizational haven. If you don’t want the world to see your closet, make sure to add a window covering, such as Roman shades, blinds, or a stylish curtain.
This closet features white PAX units that match the trim perfectly, giving it a seamless and cohesive look. Since this closet doesn’t have a door, it’s important to design it to fit with the rest of the room. The wood herringbone floors also carry from the bedroom into the closet, adding to the beautiful, uninterrupted flow. A modern light fixture with a white shade also brings the overall theme and color scheme together nicely.
This gorgeous, oversized wardrobe is accented with all kinds of unique details, including floral wallpaper and a bold, contemporary chandelier. It also features a large window and a full-sized chair, making it feel more like a separate room than a utilitarian space. A gorgeous antique piece of furniture painted in light blue has been transformed into a large storage piece with a glass top and drawers, perfect for belts, jewelry, sunglasses, and other accessories.
Finding the right amount and type of storage space can be challenging if you’re into fashion or own a lot of clothes. A full-wall wardrobe offers unique, versatile storage that’s neatly arranged like a wall-to-wall closet. This storage design is ideal for anyone with a plethora of clothing, shoes, and accessories who need adequate storage without making their bedroom look and feel cluttered.
Whether you’re building a new home from the ground up or currently looking for creative ways to expand your storage, there are plenty of great ideas to get you inspired. Check out these full-wall wardrobe ideas that will help you create a stylish, functional bedroom space you’ll love.
Make it Monochromatic
This wall-to-wall closet features an earthy terra cotta color that matches the bedroom walls. This creates a feeling of calm and serenity that’s perfect for any bedroom. Notice how even the cabinet knobs are painted the same color in the picture.
A simple, monochromatic design evokes a feeling of simplicity, even if there are plenty of items hiding behind the doors. This style works well if your wardrobe features textured or raised doors and you don’t want to add extra decor or pictures. It’s also a good choice for those looking to design a simple, quiet retreat.
If you want your room to look and feel like a cozy cave, darker colors are a good choice. The deep blue of this full-wall wardrobe makes the entire bedroom feel like an undersea retreat. A wall sconce right next to the bed adds lighting whenever you want to lie down and snuggle with a good book before bedtime.
TIP: Add adjustable shelves behind the doors for maximum storage and versatility.
In this room, the wardrobe features a combination of storage options including open shelves. The homeowner chose to add woven baskets for a perfect place to store a variety of things like bags, shoes, and other accessories for easy access. If baskets aren’t your thing, it’s an optimal design for books, movies, and other media, too.
Intricate white crown molding in this bedroom adds a beautiful yet subtle visual contrast. The plush velvet headboard brings in a softer texture that plays nicely against the starkness of the wood built-ins and doors. A tall, ladder placed against the wall is great for reaching the upper shelves, yet it also serves as a great spot for folded blankets.
Traditional armoires are standalone furniture that can typically be moved whenever and wherever you desire. However, a full-wall wardrobe is usually attached to the wall so it stays put. In this example, there’s a bit of space above the cabinets where the homeowner added several baskets in different sizes for some charming storage and decor.
A full-length mirror resting against the wall gives you a place to check out your outfit before leaving for the day. The door handles also double as hooks for purses and tote bags. You can swap the baskets here for houseplants, artwork, or decorative items if you want to bring in a different component to the room.
Full-wall wardrobes don’t have to consist of just cabinets and doors. This homeowner installed a wardrobe with added features like drawers and a built-in mirror. Not only does this make the wardrobe more functional, but it also gives it the appearance of a separate piece of furniture rather than an architectural detail.
If your bedroom is small, this design works well to substitute for traditional furniture like dressers and nightstands. You’ll also get the convenience of drawers that can come in quite handy, especially if your room doesn’t have a separate closet for clothes.
In this bedroom, the full wall wardrobe boasts a gorgeous deep blue hue, lots of doors, and drawers of different sizes for maximum organization. However, what really sets it apart is the use of lighting inside. A bright LED light turns on when the door opens so it’s easier to find clothes and other items quickly.
Not only does adding light to your wardrobe save time, it’s also quite convenient. You can install simple LED light strips or USB-rechargeable lights that are motion-activated for an affordable, easy upgrade that gets functional results.
If you have a small bedroom but want to stay organized, the simpler your wardrobe is, the better. This picture shows just a few closet doors that likely open to some hanging rods or shelving. It helps you keep things out of the way while getting ample storage without overdoing it.
Decorative handles on the large wardrobe doors help to add some texture and a fun, modern touch. This is a simple system that makes keeping your bedroom tidy easy without sacrificing style. A big window next to the bed brings in lots of natural light to make the smaller room look and feel larger.
Sliding doors like a barn door or pocket door can help make any room larger. It’s also a good option for a wall-to-wall closet if the door leads to another room, like the bathroom or a living space. These doors slide from side to side rather than opening inward or outward to free up floor space.
In this bedroom, the wardrobe includes larger, wider cubbies above the lower cabinets that reach the ceiling. This is a perfect way to store larger items like comforters and blankets, sweaters, or even holiday decorations. If you’re adding a wall-to-wall closet like this, making the most of every square inch is the best way to get as much storage as possible.
Instead of a standard closet or a larger walk-in closet, this homeowner chose to install a complete wall-to-wall wardrobe. Tall, slender doors provide easy access to clothes, and the light gray color adds a touch of modern sophistication. This example shows you can get the storage you need without sacrificing space or style.
A built-in wardrobe around a bed is a space-saving solution that combines sleeping and storage in one wall. It typically consists of floor-to-ceiling cabinets on either side of the bed, often connected by overhead units, creating a recessed niche for the bed. It works especially well in small bedrooms, studio apartments, and rooms without a separate walk-in closet.
Built-in wardrobes always deliver a more finished result, which is especially useful when you don’t have a walk-in closet and have to use the bedroom space for both sleeping and storage.
When you are especially tight on space, or when you want to use your bedroom for other functionalities like a home office or seating area, building your fitted wardrobe around the bed can be a great way of combining functionalities and saving precious floor space, which can then be used for a dressing table, desk, or lounge chair.
Blue fitted wardrobes around the bed
This beautiful bedroom with historic details is painted entirely white, which makes the light-blue fitted wardrobe around the bed stand out as the focal point and the main feature of the room.
The wardrobe is built with two main modules on each side of the bed, and hanging cabinets above the bed itself, resulting in a niche space for the bed, which has been decorated with two simple black wall lamps.
The very top of the fitted wardrobe doesn’t reach all the way to the ceiling to not obstruct the view of the beautiful crown molding in this master bedroom.
A small bedroom like this one can benefit so much from around-the-bed wardrobes, as there is almost no other way around fitting both the bed and storage space on such a small surface.
In this tiny bedroom, the built-in wardrobes have been constructed above and beside the bed, leaving a space against the wall for a small bed. This result is clearly the work of a professional, as there were some uneven wall surfaces to overcome as well.
The wardrobe modules have been painted in the same color as the walls for an integrated effect, and the niche space for the bed is the perfect place for an art print in the same color.
Side and above the bed wardrobes in a hotel-style bedroom
Since this bedroom is long and narrow, it would have been difficult to fit large wardrobes to fit all the clothes away from the bed. This bespoke solution with double-door wardrobes on each side of the bed, connected with upper cabinets above the bed, combines both functionalities in an optimal way.
The niche space created by the wardrobes is filled with beautiful black wall lamps mounted along the sides of the main wardrobe modules. The overall look of this bedroom has a hotel look and feel thanks to the niche space, the TV on the wall, and the tone-on-tone color palette.
Storage space on both sides of the bed for an integrated effect
While some of the wardrobe solutions in this list require a carpenter, you can achieve a very integrated effect with wardrobes on each side of the bed, just like in this example.
This will create a niche space in between them that can be filled with wall sconces, a headboard, and artwork for an impressive effect in the bedroom.
A vintage white fitted wardrobe combined with beige walls
This fully customized wardrobe above the bed has been there for a while, judging from its traditional style. The white paint on the wardrobes matches the door and window frames and contrasts nicely with the beige paint color with red undertones.
Wall lamps have been installed on either side of the wardrobes, and an art print in the middle adds the perfect touch to this gorgeous bedroom. The wall panels that connect the wardrobes to the wall make sure there are no gaps, and they are utilized with wall hooks on each side.
Dark fitted wardrobes on each side of the bed create a niche
The two wardrobes on either side of the bed in this bedroom are connected by a wooden board at the very top, giving them a seamless, integrated look. The floating shelf in the niche space is perfect for storing books and displaying a single piece of art.
The dark grey color on the wardrobes and the even darker grey on the wall give this space a modern look, contrasted by the crisp white linen bed sheets.
Tone-on-tone bespoke fitted wardrobes with built-in nightstands
The bespoke wardrobes around the bed in this asymmetric bedroom are built wall-to-wall, floor-to-ceiling, which gives them a very integrated look that is further enhanced by matching the wall color to the color on the wardrobes.
This bespoke solution features built-in shelves in the bedroom niche that serve as nightstands on either side.
Plain doors and over-bed wardrobes combined into a full storage wall
These bespoke wardrobes have been built around both the bed and the doorway, transforming the entire wall up to the ceiling into a storage space, with a ladder rail for reaching the upper cabinets.
The light base-color palette in the room has been enhanced by a dark accent wall in the niche behind the bed, highlighting the beautiful custom work. Overhead lighting has even been integrated into the upper wardrobe modules above the bed, which function as reading lights.
This wardrobe solution in mustard yellow consists of two main wardrobe modules on each side of the bed, connected with indented upper modules for an interesting look.
The niche space behind the bed has been filled with a custom fabric headboard, which fills the gap between the wardrobes exactly and gives the bed a luxurious look and feel.
The space between the window and the wardrobe is filled with a desk and floating shelves, an easy way to integrate a small home office.
Light grey fitted wardrobes beside and above the bed to optimize the limited space
This simple light grey wardrobe is a U-shaped design that can be made the DIY way using Ikea kitchen modules. Combine tall modules with wall-hung cupboards above the bed, and instead of just two tall wardrobes, you create a full row of storage for things you use less often, like summer clothes or luggage pieces.
Two wardrobes on each side of the bed for a bespoke effect
If you want to create a beautiful niche space, place two tall wardrobe modules on either side of the bed. For a more finished look, you can create a custom headboard in the same color as the wall, allowing you to use the ledge as a nightstand.
Attach two wall lamps to the sides of both wardrobes to create a beautiful, niche bedroom space with integrated storage.
A fully fitted wardrobe along the entire wall, finished off with wallpaper
This custom-fitted wardrobe solution is impressive and provides ample storage in this room. The wall above the bed has been covered with beautiful, patterned wallpaper, highlighting this spot in such a lovely way.
Custom-built-ins with plain doors in an attic room
A slightly awkward space with sloped ceilings will always benefit from a custom wardrobe solution so you can integrate the modules seamlessly with the ceiling.
This bespoke solution includes ample storage opportunities, floating shelves above the bed, and the fitted wardrobes even continue over into lower storage modules on the side of the room.
Dark blue built-in wardrobes create a cozy bed niche with bookshelves
This seamless, bespoke solution in dark blue features built-in shelves on either side of the bed, which is such an elegant way to offer small storage space next to the bed. These shelf modules, however, also create a slight gap between the tall fitted wardrobes and the bed, so it’s easier to open the doors.
The wall behind the bed has been painted in the same dark blue color as the built-in wardrobes, and the blue wall lamps finish this inspiring solution off perfectly.
A wardrobe in the same color as the wall, highlighting the crown molding on the ceiling
The wardrobe in this beautiful turn-of-the-century bedroom is built from wall to wall, with a niche for the bed right in the middle. The gold wall lamps complement the gold hardware on the cabinet doors, and the muted green paint on both the walls and the wardrobe makes the beautiful crown molding on the ceiling stand out beautifully.
A mixture of wall cabinets in different depths in a dark grey color
This wall-to-wall solution integrates two large storage elements on each side of the bed, a headboard in the middle, and an open shelf and narrow storage modules in the center above the bed.
The chrome and leather handles on the dark grey cabinet doors complete the look, and the beige and red striped pillow on the bed adds a certain charm to the setting.
A custom studio wardrobe designed to optimize the wall space above the bed
In this small white studio apartment, where the sleeping area and sofa section are combined in the same room, a wardrobe built around the bed offers a space-saving storage solution that goes high up towards the ceiling.
Other than the previous ideas on this list, the bed is placed lengthwise beneath the wardrobe to maximize wall space.
A Small Bedroom with Classic Features and Lots of Storage Space
This small bedroom features a fitted wardrobe around the bed, with rounded corners finishing the edges of the alcove. The open shelf between the cabinet doors is perfect for books and items that would otherwise find a place in the drawers of nightstands.
Fitted Wardrobes with Built-In Nightstands Next to the Bed
This pale-yellow wardrobe design features drawers and cabinets for ample storage. The upper cabinets can be reached by a ladder attached to the brass rail. The sides of this custom wardrobe feature built-in nightstands, with a classic aluminum wall lamp hung above them.
Floor-to-Ceiling Built-in Wardrobes with an Oak finish
If the one-color wardrobe ideas on this list are a bit too monochrome for you, you can explore pairing different colors and materials in a single wardrobe. In the example below, classic light grey cabinets are paired with an oak headboard for a modern look.
Work with Classy Pastel Pink and a Headboard for an Elegant Look
If you’re wondering about building a wardrobe around your bed but worried it might look too heavy, go for a subtle pastel tone, like in the example below. Finish off the bed alcove with an elegant headboard that matches the space’s style.
If you want to integrate your built-in wardrobe with the rest of the interior, you can always pair it with bedroom wainscoting in the same color for an integrated effect. Pair it with a bold, contrasting wall color, as in the example below, for a modern look.
Styled by Lindholm, photographed by Boukari for Historiska Hem
Create a Bedroom Alcove underneath Your Studio Apartment Wardrobe
In this studio apartment, a large wall of custom-fitted wardrobes decorates the room. The alcove created by the wardrobe on the right side is used for a small bed. The upper cabinets are great for storing lesser-used items.
Finish Your High-end Wardrobe off With a Golden Ladder Rail
When designing your custom wardrobe, it’s important to consider all the functions you might need around the bed. Add lighting, niches for nightstands, or a ladder rail to reach higher cabinets to make your wardrobe work for you.
The fitted wardrobe in this beautiful example is finished with a dark headboard and black-and-gold reading lights, which complement the chic aesthetic of the bedroom interior.
Include the Bed inside Fitted Wardrobes to Maximize Limited Space
The gorgeous fitted wardrobes in this small bedroom provide ample storage in a limited space. By including the bed inside the built-in wardrobes, the blue color of the wardrobe stands out against the neutral color palette of the textiles in a powerful way.
Include a Custom Shelf as a Bedside table for keeping Books
This fitted wardrobe has no hardware, giving it a sleek effect. The bedroom walls are painted the same color as the built-ins for an integrated effect. One side of the bed includes a small custom bookshelf that works as a bedside table.
Balance out a Vibrant Blue Wardrobe with graphic Wallpaper
This wall-to-wall and floor-to-ceiling handleless wardrobe features a vibrant blue color that stands out. By pairing the blue cabinets with a graphic wallpaper in the bed niche and a polka-dot bedspread, the color palette looks balanced and unique.
Cozy Elegance with Classic Overhead Wardrobe Storage
This serene bedroom showcases a clever built-in wardrobe design that maximizes vertical space without compromising comfort. The overhead cabinets offer ample storage while framing the bed beautifully, enhanced by soft white paneling that contrasts gently with the muted grey wall color.
A pair of open shelves on either side provides easy access to books and lighting, seamlessly integrated into the structure. The soft textiles, neutral tones, and a large paper pendant light bring a calm, cohesive aesthetic to the room.
A cozy bedroom with a deep green wardrobe surrounding the bed
This dark green built-in wardrobe frames the bed area, creating a snug sleeping nook. The small floral wallpaper on the back wall adds depth and texture. Soft pink and beige textiles create a cozy, serene atmosphere.
Frequently asked questions about built-in wardrobes around a bed
Is it safe to have a wardrobe above the bed?
Yes, as long as the cabinets are professionally installed and properly secured to wall studs or a solid structure. Overhead cabinets should always be mounted by a qualified carpenter or joiner, especially if they span the full width of the bed. Flush-close or push-to-open doors are the safest choice for overhead units, as they eliminate the risk of open doors above your head.
How much does a built-in wardrobe around a bed cost?
Cost varies widely depending on whether you go bespoke, semi-bespoke, or DIY. A fully custom carpenter-built solution typically starts from €2,000–4,000 in Germany, and can go significantly higher depending on size, materials, and finish. A semi-bespoke option using flat-pack modules (such as IKEA kitchen cabinets) combined with custom fronts can bring this down to €500–1,500, depending on the number of modules.
Can you DIY a built-in wardrobe around a bed?
Yes, one of the most cost-effective approaches is using IKEA kitchen wall cabinets above the bed, combined with tall wardrobe modules on either side. IKEA SEKTION or PAX systems can be configured to create an integrated look when painted the same color as the walls. The key is to ensure the overhead units are correctly anchored and to account for any uneven walls or ceilings, much like mounting IKEA cabinets on the kitchen wall.
What is the minimum room size for a wardrobe around the bed?
There is no strict minimum, but the concept works best when the wall you’re building on is at least as wide as the bed plus two wardrobe columns (typically 50–60 cm each). In a room that’s 3 meters wide, for example, a standard double bed (140 cm) plus two 60 cm wardrobe columns fits comfortably. The overhead section above the bed can be added regardless of room width.
Do I need a carpenter for a built-in wardrobe around the bed?
Not always. If your walls and ceiling are straight and you’re using modular furniture, a confident DIYer can achieve a very integrated result. A carpenter becomes necessary when you have sloped ceilings, uneven walls, crown molding to work around, or when you want a fully seamless bespoke finish with no visible gaps.
What style works best for a built-in wardrobe around a bed?
The most timeless approach is to paint the wardrobes in the same color as the walls for a tone-on-tone, integrated effect. Flat or shaker-style doors work across both modern and classic interiors. For a more dramatic look, a dark accent color on the wardrobe against lighter walls creates a strong focal point. Adding integrated lighting (wall sconces attached to the wardrobe sides or overhead reading lights built into the upper modules) elevates the result significantly.
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