Alcove wardrobes are fitted wardrobes built into the recesses either side of a chimney breast. They turn awkward, often wasted space into full-height storage, with hanging rails, shelves and drawers made to fit the alcove exactly. In older houses where walls aren't straight and alcoves are all different sizes, made-to-measure alcove wardrobes are the only way to get a seamless, built-in look.
At Oak & Pine by Design, transforming awkward alcoves into usable storage is one of our specialities. We make fitted and freestanding wardrobes by hand in our Honley workshop. Here's how to make the most of your chimney breast.
Alcove wardrobe ideas
1. Matching wardrobes either side
Two matching wardrobes framing the chimney breast create perfect symmetry, and they're the classic choice for period bedrooms.
2. Wardrobe on one side, shelves on the other
If one alcove is shallow or has a window, use it for open shelves or a dressing table instead.
3. A bridging unit over the chimney breast
Cupboards running across the top of the chimney breast link the wardrobes and add storage for out-of-season clothes.
4. Full height to the ceiling
Taking wardrobes all the way up uses the high ceilings of older homes and adds valuable top-cupboard storage.
5. Period-style doors
Panelled doors, cornice and matching skirting make the wardrobes look original to the house.
6. Painted to match the walls
Painting the wardrobes the same colour as the room makes them recede and feel calm.
7. A dressing table between
If the fireplace is no longer used, a fitted dressing table or desk can sit between the two wardrobes.
Got two awkward alcoves in the bedroom? Ask Daniel to measure up.
Planning the inside of an alcove wardrobe
Alcoves are often shallower than a standard wardrobe, so the interior needs careful thought:
- Shallow alcoves: a front-facing pull-out rail or angled hangers can work where a standard rail won't fit
- Deeper alcoves: a standard hanging rail with shelves above
- Drawers inside for folded clothes, keeping the room clutter-free
- Double rails for shirts and jackets
- A long-hanging section for coats and dresses
Because every wardrobe we make is designed from scratch, the interior is planned around your clothes, not a standard module.
Why made-to-measure alcove wardrobes are worth it
- They fit perfectly, scribed to uneven walls, floors and ceilings
- They use every inch, with no filler panels or gaps
- They're built to last from quality timber with proper joints
- They can match the room, including period details and existing furniture
Our client Lee Hough had two bedrooms fitted by us: "Two bedrooms completed with fully fitted wardrobes, drawers and matching bedside tables. From design to final fitting Daniel came up with exactly what I wanted with exceptional quality of workmanship and materials used."
Which timber for alcove wardrobes?
We build wardrobes in European oak, American oak, pine, beech, mahogany and walnut, or painted in any colour. Painted wardrobes blend into the room, which suits alcoves especially well. Natural oak and walnut make a warm, furniture-like statement. See our guide to fitted wardrobe costs.
Frequently asked questions
How deep do alcove wardrobes need to be?
A standard hanging rail needs a reasonable depth. For shallow alcoves, a front-facing pull-out rail or a carefully planned interior can still work.
Are alcove wardrobes a good idea?
Yes. They turn wasted recesses into generous storage and free up floor space in the rest of the room.
Can alcove wardrobes go all the way to the ceiling?
Yes, and in older homes with high ceilings, full-height wardrobes add a lot of extra storage.
Do you make matching bedroom furniture?
Yes. We make matching drawers, bedside tables, beds and more. See our handmade bedroom furniture.
Alcove wardrobes made by hand
Every wardrobe we make is designed for your room by master craftsman Daniel Fitzpatrick, built in our Honley workshop and fitted by the people who made it. Explore our handmade fitted wardrobes.
Visit us at Unit 3, Crossley Mills, Honley, HD9 6PL. Your first consultation is free.
Book a showroom visit or call 01484 666 333.