Choosing a good armoire can mean the difference between a well-organised, clutter free home and one that has clothes, shoes and accessories scattered everywhere. It is one of the most essential pieces of furniture you have in your home. Traditionally armoires were designed specifically for bedrooms, but now they can be found in entryways, kitchens, living rooms and home offices, to keep a variety of things from muddy boots to crockery. There is an enormous choice available but finding the best armoire is no easy task. Read on for our top tips on how to choose the perfect armoire for your space.
Armoires for your bedroom
Write a list of all the things you want to store in your bedroom armoire. Don’t just think of the obvious things like clothes and shoes, think of other accessories you need to store, such as belts, bags, purses, ties and scarves. It is best to choose an armoire with a variety of storage options. You will need a good quality hanging rail that can take the weight of heavier items, such as winter coats. You should also choose one with built-in drawers, shelves and other compartments. Once you have established what you need to store, start thinking what style armoire will suit the decor of your bedroom. Don’t forget an armoire is not just a storage cabinet, it should enhance and add to the comfort and style of your home. It needs to coordinate with the colour scheme and existing furniture in the space.
Armoires for your entryway
Armoires are particularly good in entryways. They can store all sorts of things from umbrellas, coats, muddy shoes, mittens, backpacks, and sports equipment. Choose one with three to four shelves, or drawers, to keep woolens e.g. hats and scarves separate from muddier items. You will also need a hanging rail for coats. If you want to organize things further you can put plastic containers inside to keep, for example, sports equipment and umbrellas separate.
Armoires for your living room
Corner armoires are perfect for filling those empty, often redundant corner spaces in a living room. They are ideal for storing your television, DVD or CD player. They can also be used to store your DVs, CDs, computer games and other entertainment. If you have the space in your living room to put an armoire against a flat wall, avoid choosing anything too big or bulky. Try choosing one with glass windows in the top, or lattice work on the base. This will help break up the facade of the armoire. Place pretty plates or stylish accessories behind the glass to add a decorative touch to your living room.
Traditional Armoires
If you are looking for a traditional armoire you might want to look at antique-style wood designs with decorative detailing and elegant handles. Armoires in good quality woods such as mahogany, cherry and walnut will last a long time and can make a strong statement in a classic style interior.
Vintage-style armoires
If your style is more relaxed, consider an armoire with a distressed, rustic look. Painted wooden armoires can be distressed by hand using some high-grit sand paper. If you are worried about doing it yourself, there are plenty of distressed armoires on the market to choose from. You could also try looking for something a bit different that has some character to it? Keep an eye on your local antiques market or reclamation yard for original hand-painted French style armoires. Some of them may need a little restoration work but it will be worth it to have a truly original armoire in your home.
Contemporary armoires
For modern rooms, choose an armoire with clean lines and a strong sense of design. If you want to go for something slicker, you could opt for a lacquered armoire with a high gloss finish. Mirrored armoires can also work really well in a contemporary space, not only do they save the hassle of buying a full length mirror, but they also bounce light around the room and increase the feeling of space.
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