How to Build a Fitted Wardrobe in an Alcove

Fitted wardrobes are the best choice for most homes. There are endless reasons, ranging from the fact that they maximize space, can fit into any space no matter how awkward, they can be custom tailored to individual needs, incorporate custom lighting, etc. Did you know that that awkward empty space in your room can be converted into a good storage space? You can do this by constructing a fitted wardrobe into that alcove. 

Building a Fitted Wardrobe in an Alcove

Before you build a fitted wardrobe in an alcove, there are certain things you need to consider, such as the size and space of your alcove and your storage needs. It is these two variables that determine the kind of fitted wardrobe that would best suit your space and needs. Alternatively, if you’ve got some money to spare, you could simply call up a professional carpenter closest to you.

Basic Tools and Materials Required to Build a Fitted Wardrobe

1. Medium Density Fibreboard: This is the most common wood that people use when constructing their wardrobes. It is a specially engineered wood product that is light and easy to drill. It is also glue-friendly. It sticks together with just the minimum amount of glue.
2. Wood Saw: You will definitely need a saw blade. You could go for the traditional hand saw, the electric saw or the battery-powered saw. All are available on Amazon, or you can visit the store closest to you. 
3. Cordless Drill: This is another crucial tool necessary in drilling holes into the wood and in screwing in screws into the wood to securing them fast together.
4. Hammer: This is also a crucial tool necessary in the construction of any woodwork. Be careful, however, not to hurt yourself with the hammer.
5. Glue: This is an essential component that allows you to join wood together firmly before you proceed with screwing it tight.
6. Measuring Tape
7. Utility Knife
8. Level
9. Square
10. Others include screws, nails, door hinges, protective gloves and safety goggles.

Steps to Construct a Fitted Wardrobe in an Alcove

1. Measure: The first thing to do is to measure the length, breadth and width of the space you have available. This will influence the second and third steps.
2. Determine Exactly What You Need the Space for: You need to determine exactly what you’ll like to use the storage space for. This will greatly influence the design and configuration of the wardrobe.
3. Design: This is where the main work starts. You need to sketch what you want the wardrobe to look like. You are to be particular about things like the door(s), drawers, shelves, etc. while designing it. It is what you designed that you would work towards.
4. Build Frames: The next thing is to build the frames upon which every other construction will be added. This is usually the long parts of the wardrobe that are screwed or nailed to the wall and upon which you are to attach drawers, shelves, cabinets, hangers, etc.
5. Fix the Frames to The Wall and Floor: the next step is to fix the frames mentioned in step 4 above to the wall and floor. It is easier if you have a wooden floor, but if it’s a concrete floor, you may have to use a hammer drill with a masonry bit to drill the holes. After drilling the holes, screw them tight to the wall and floor.
6. Shelves: Since the purpose of the fitted wardrobe is to store things, you can’t just decide to be throwing and dumping clothes and accessories into the wardrobe. You need to put together shelves with respect to the number you will need.
7. Add the Door(s): Based on your design, you may prefer a door-less wardrobe. If you do prefer a door however, what sort?
8. Paint: This final step is optional. According to your taste and choice, you can paint the finished wardrobe with your choice of color. Whichever you choose, be sure to ensure it is scentless so occupants of the house won’t be disturbed by the smell of the paint.

Conculsion

Maximize that alcove by building a fitted wardrobe into it. Building one is relatively easy. You could consult a professional or do it yourself by following the steps above. Again, they are:

• Measure
• Determine Exactly What You Need the Space for
• Design
• Build Frames
• Fix the Frames to The Wall and Floor
• Shelves
• Add the Door(s)
• Paint