Make it work for you BEST FOR…

A SEPARATE DRESSING ROOM Always dreamed of a dedicated dressing space? Discover how to make your closet fantasies a reality whatever your budget

SALI’S CHOICE:

If you have the extra space, consider knocking through to a box room, erecting a partition wall if your bedroom is large enough, or using a slice of the landing.

QWhere do I begin? You’ll need a space of at least 2m wide for a simple galley-style walk-in wardrobe. Assess how much storage you need by measuring your existing hanging rails (and factoring in future purchases) and ensure you have a good mixture of rails, shelves and drawers.

QWhat’s the best way to use the space? Floor-to-ceiling fitted furniture can increase storage space by 30 per cent. For awkwardly shaped rooms, bespoke wardrobes are best, or try Zebedee for hanging rails designed to fit sloping ceilings. Ikea’s Pax system or Spacepro at B&Q is ideal if you’re on a budget. Ask a joiner to customise off-the-peg carcasses with low-cost plywood or oriented strand board (OBS) doors, that can be left bare or given a colour wash. Break up a run of storage with a built-in dressing table with plug points.

QHow can I organise my clothes better?

A place for everything is key. Double rails should be hung between a metre and 2m from the floor. Include pull-out tie and belt racks, dividers to organise underwear drawers and a laundry bin. Store shoes in stackable clear plastic storage.

QWhat if I don’t have a spare room?

Screen off a section of your bedroom with floor-to-ceiling curtains using a ceiling track and roller curtain hooks to a dressing area. Use three or four curtains sewn together or make your own from lightweight fabric.

ADD A DRESSING TABLE FOR A TOUCH OF LUXURY

“Ensure you have adequate lighting – perhaps LEDS inside cupboards – and leave space for a full-length mirror and an area to stand back from it

ANNA HEWITSON, INTERIOR DESIGNER

MAXIMISING HANGING SPACE Magic clothes hangers (£3.37 each, Wish), allow you to hang up to eight items on one rack which can also be used vertically.

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MOTION-SENSOR LIGHTING

To illuminate inside wardrobes, try a rechargeable wireless motion sensor LED strip light (£14.99 from Auraglow).

ACCESSING TOP CUPBOARDS

The Library Ladder Company provides rolling ladder kits, from £570, perfect for reaching items stored up high.