If you have a small walk-in closet, you’ll understand the frustration when the layout just doesn’t work. Ours was poorly designed, lacking storage, and no matter what we tried, it never felt functional. After putting up with it for far too long, we finally decided it was time for a small walk-in closet makeover—and I’m so glad we did.

The Before: A Small Closet That Didn’t Work

We had attempted to improve the space over time by adding an extra shelf at the top and some shoe storage, but it still felt cluttered and impractical. With limited room and two doorways to work around, the layout was always going to be a challenge.

Stripping Everything Back

The first step in our walk-in wardrobe makeover was to completely remove the existing shelving.

We started by removing the trim from the top shelf, followed by all remaining shelving. The skirting boards also had to go so the new cabinetry could sit flush against the wall. Once the large upright post was removed, we repaired the hole it left in the flooring before moving on.

Planning a Functional Layout for a Small Space

Planning took much longer than expected. Designing a functional small walk-in closet layout is tricky at the best of times—but adding two doorways into the mix made it even more challenging.

We were also working within a budget, so we chose the IKEA PAX wardrobe system, using the 35cm depth units to maximise space.

For our small walk-in closet makeover, we used:

• 100cm x 35cm x 236cm units – 4
• 50cm x 35cm x 236cm unit – 1
• Komplement drawers (100 x 35cm) – 6
• Komplement shelves (100 x 35cm) – 19
• Komplement shelves (50 x 35cm) – 7
• Bergsbo doors (frosted glass) – 3
• Komplement clothes rails – 4

Because the cabinets are only 35cm deep, we knew we wouldn’t be able to add doors everywhere (the hangers extend past), but this allowed us to fit in far more storage—which was our priority.

A Custom Solution for Accessories

One of my must-haves was a dedicated space for accessories—scarves, jewellery, belts, and glasses.

We customised the 50cm unit by cutting it down to 25cm deep. Thankfully, Tony is very handy, so this worked beautifully and gave us a compact but incredibly functional accessories cupboard. It’s honestly one of my favourite parts of the wardrobe.

The Reveal: A Practical and Beautiful Small Walk-In Closet

We are absolutely thrilled with how this small walk-in wardrobe makeover turned out.

The drawers are a standout feature. At 35cm deep, they actually make it easier to stay organised. I use the KonMari Method to fold clothes, and the narrow drawers work perfectly.

We created:

• Long hanging space on one side
• Double hanging for shirts and shorts on the other
• Dedicated drawer space for everyday essentials

Tony’s shirts are hung above the drawers (a little out of my reach!), while my everyday pieces are easy to access.

A Shoe Storage Solution That Actually Works

I had always wanted a proper shoe storage solution—something that looked beautiful but also kept everything dust-free.

The adjustable shelving made it easy to customise the space, and I was finally able to get rid of all the bulky shoe boxes. It’s practical, neat, and honestly very satisfying to look at.

Organisation Ideas for a Small Walk-In Closet

To make the most of our space, we used simple, affordable organisation solutions:

• Felt drawer organisers for underwear and socks
• Storage boxes for seasonal clothing (kept on the top shelves)
• Clear shoe boxes for easy visibility
• Felt storage boxes for accessories

These small additions made a big difference in keeping everything tidy and easy to maintain.

Final Thoughts on Our Walk-In Closet Makeover

This small walk-in closet makeover has completely changed how we use the space. It’s now practical, organised, and actually enjoyable to use every day.

There are still a few finishing touches I’d love to add—like labels for the storage boxes and a beautiful hook for outfit planning—but for now, I couldn’t be happier.

(Although… I wouldn’t say no to a large, dreamy dressing room one day! 🤍)

If you’d like to see another transformation, take a look at our kitchen renovation reveal.