Glossary:
Choosing the best wardrobe materials and finish for your modern wardrobe can transform it from a mere functional necessity into a stylish statement piece for you home interior. A modern wardrobe being an essential piece of furniture in every household should fulfill the basic parameters of good furniture design. This blog will help you find a wardrobe with the perfect combination of wardrobe materials, modern wardrobe aesthetics, and innovative wardrobe designs!
Step 1: Choose the right base material
Wood, a timeless material
For those who love the classic and timeless, wood is the go-to choice. Wood has justified itself for generations as one of the most durable materials with less maintenance requirements. Having a natural element in your room brings an earthy vibe that accentuates the place to feel more warm and cozy.
You have multiple types and shades of wood to select from depending on your aesthetics. Plywood is a popular choice for wardrobe cabinets for several reasons. Plywood is a engineered wood and resistant to bending and can hold heavy items. It's available in moisture-resistant, waterproof, and marine options, and can be finished with laminates and veneers.
If you wish to go for natural wood materials you can consider this:
Teak Wood: Highly durable, termite-resistant, and has a rich, warm color. Ideal for long-lasting and high-quality wardrobes.
Sheesham (Indian Rosewood): Known for its strength and distinctive grain patterns, Sheesham adds an elegant touch.
Oak Wood: Sturdy and durable with a classic, timeless appeal. Often used for traditional and modern designs.
Sturdiness of wood provides a long-lasting durability
Wood adds a warm and natural feel to the room
Wood is easy to customize in different shapes and sizes
It comes in various textures and colors
Wood may have higher initial cost compared to other alternatives
It requires periodic maintenance like polishing, refinishing, painting etc.
Wood is heavier than other materials and requires hardware for installation
Metal, modern chic
Metal wardrobes are increasingly popular for their durability, modern aesthetics, and functional benefits. They offer a sleek and contemporary alternative to traditional wooden wardrobes. Metal wardrobes cater to a variety of needs and styles and offer a robust storage solution for a commercial space or a stylish addition to a minimalist home. Types of metals to Use for Wardrobes
1. Steel
- Mild Steel: Known for its strength and durability, mild steel is commonly used in wardrobes. It is often coated with paint or powder to enhance its resistance to corrosion and wear.
- Stainless Steel: Highly resistant to corrosion, rust, and stains, stainless steel is ideal for high-humidity areas like bathrooms. It offers a modern and sleek look and requires minimal maintenance.
2. Aluminum
- Lightweight and resistant to corrosion, aluminum is a versatile material that is easy to move and maintain. It is often used in modern and minimalist designs due to its sleek appearance and durability.
3. Iron
- Often used in more traditional or industrial designs, iron wardrobes are extremely sturdy. They can be prone to rust if not properly treated, so they are usually coated with rust-resistant finishes.
Exceptional durability ensures a long lifespan
Secure locking mechanisms offer enhanced security
Easy to clean and maintain, resistant to pests
Sleek, modern appearance suits contemporary interiors
Inherent fire resistance provides added safety
Heavier than other materials, making it difficult to move
Can be noisy when opening and closing doors or drawers
Metal surfaces can feel cold to the touch, especially in colder climates
Potential for rust if not properly treated or maintained
To explore how to make the most of your wardrobe space, check out our blog on Creative Wardrobe Organization Ideas.
Glass, a contemporary choice
Glass is often used to create an illusion of space. Having a transparent material like glass in your room generates airiness making the limited space feel more spacious. Glass reflective surfaces make even the darkest of rooms feel lighter and brighter. It also adds a touch of luxury to your room through its sophistication and modernity.
Having a wardrobe made up of glass allows you to subtly showcase your favorite pieces, turning the wardrobe into a mini-gallery of fashion. Tempered glass is a popular option for wardrobes sides due to its strength. Try going for glass thickness more than 6 mm for maximum durability.
Glass provides an elegant look to the room
It makes the space appear bright and large
Glass is easy to clean and doesn’t require other maintenances
Glass is moisture and stain resistant
Privacy is compromised when using glass for wardrobes
Glass is an expensive material as compared to others
Prone to breakage and shattering as it's a fragile material
Mirror, a reflective touch
Making an entire wardrobe is impractical but it works as a great addition to wardrobe. Mirrored wardrobes are not only a practical but also a stylish choice. Undoubtedly, having a mirrored wardrobe would save the hassle to find another piece of furniture to go well with the accents of your room.
Mirrored wardrobes not only help in making the room look bigger but also enhances the natural lighting, creating a bright and airy atmosphere. Plus, it’s super convenient as the wardrobe is two in one for checking out your outfits and getting ready in the morning.
Mirror wardrobes provide functionality as a wardrobe and a mirror at once
Mirror gives illusion of space and enhances natural lighting, brightening the room
Easy to clean
Mirror is fragile and can break easily if mishandled
Higher cost compared to other materials
May require professional installation assistance
Acrylic, a modern alternative
A low maintenance yet contemporary and modern addition would be to have an acrylic wardrobe in your room. Acrylic is an economical, lighter and safer substitute to glass wardrobes.
Acrylic is also resistant to scratches and can withstand daily wear and tear, making it a practical choice for those seeking both style and functionality. Acrylic offers customizable finish whether it be glossy or matte.
Acrylics help to customize the wardrobe as per your taste as they come in a variety of colors, textures and patterns. The main drawback with acrylic wardrobes is that they are non-heat resistant and tend to lose their coating.
Durable and lightweight material
Offers wide range of customization options in various colors and finishes
Easy to clean and resistant to moisture
Less expensive than mirror and glass
Not as reflective as glass and mirror, may turn yellow overtime
Laminate, a style statement
Laminate wardrobe is a pocket friendly option which is also durable and easy to clean. Laminate comes in different colors and textures which enables customization as per your preference.
The installation of a laminate wardrobe is easy as it doesn’t require much skill. It is the best choice for heavy use environments as it is impact, shock and pressure resistant .
The material is water resistant and doesn’t require regular polishing and painting. It can be installed over almost any existing floor. You also get a wide range of laminate to choose from.
Lightweight and budget friendly option
Durable, moisture and scratch resistant
Easy to clean material
Available in wide range of colors, patterns and textures
Limited customization options than wood and other materials
Less environment friendly
Prone to discoloration if in contact with direct sunlight
Step 2: Internal Laminating or Veneering
Internal laminates and veneers are essential for adding a finishing touch to the interiors of wardrobes, providing both aesthetic appeal and functional durability.
1. Laminates:
High-Pressure Laminate (HPL):
- Made by saturating multiple layers of Kraft paper with phenolic resin and decorative paper with melamine resin. It is then pressed and hardened under high temperature and pressure.
- Features: Durable, scratch-resistant, easy to clean, available in various colors, textures, and patterns.
- Brands: Greenlam, Merino, CenturyLaminates.
-Made from resin-saturated decorative paper that is thermally fused onto a substrate using heat and pressure.
- Features: Economical, less durable than HPL, available in a wide range of designs.
- Brands: Sunmica (by AICA Laminates), Durian Laminates, Royale Touche.
2. Veneers:
Natural Wood Veneer:
- Thin slices of natural wood, usually around 0.6 to 6 mm thick, obtained by slicing or peeling a log.
- Features: Elegant appearance, unique grain patterns, enhances natural beauty of wood.
- Types: Teak, Oak, Walnut, Mahogany, etc.
- Brands: Greenply Veneers, Century Veneers, Durian Veneers.
Engineered Wood Veneer:
- Made from thin slices of real wood that are adhered to a substrate (like MDF or plywood) to improve stability and reduce cost.
- Features: More consistent in color and grain pattern than natural veneer, more environmentally friendly.
- Brands: Greenply Veneers, Century Veneers, Durian Veneers.
3. Decorative Foils:
- Thin decorative sheets made from PVC or PET, often used as an alternative to laminates for cost-effectiveness.
- Features: Lightweight, easy to install, available in various designs and finishes.
- Brands: Xylo, Geetex, Amulya Mica.
4. Acrylic Panels:
- High-gloss panels made from acrylic sheets, offering a modern and sleek appearance.
-Features: Mirror-like finish, scratch-resistant, UV-resistant, vibrant colors.
-Brands: Alstone Acrylic, Merino Acrylic, Greenlam Sturdo.
5. Metallic Laminates:
- Laminates with metallic finishes, adding a contemporary and industrial look.
- Features: Reflective surface, modern aesthetics, durable.
- Brands: Greenlam, Merino, CenturyLaminates.
For more insights into matching your wardrobe finish with the right style, read our blog on Steps To Help You Choose Your Bedroom Wardrobe
Step 3: Shutter
Determine Type of Shutter:
Hinged Shutters: Traditional doors attached with hinges. Ideal for wardrobes with enough space for doors to swing open.
Sliding Shutters: Doors that slide along a track. Best for spaces where swinging doors are impractical.
Bi-Fold Shutters: Panels that fold back on themselves. Suitable for wide openings where space-saving is essential. Determine Material of Shutter: 1. Plywood:
Pros: Durable, strong, and available in various thicknesses.
Brands: CenturyPly, Greenply. 2. MDF (Medium-Density Fiberboard):
Pros: Smooth surface, easy to paint, and affordable.
Brands: Action Tesa, Greenpanel. 3. Particle Board:
Pros: Economical and lightweight.
Brands: Novopan, Durian. 4. Solid Wood:
Pros: Premium look, strong, and long-lasting.
Brands: Local timber suppliers, imported options like Teak, Oak.
5. Laminated Shutters:
Pros: Durable, easy to clean, and available in various finishes.
Brands: Greenlam, Merino, CenturyPly. Measuring and Cutting:
Measure the wardrobe opening accurately to determine the size of the shutters.
Cut the shutter panels to the required dimensions using precision tools. Edge Banding:
Apply edge banding to the edges of the shutter panels to ensure a smooth and finished look.
Use an edge banding machine or iron to adhere the edge banding tape. Hinge Installation:
Select appropriate hinges for the shutters (e.g., concealed hinges, piano hinges).
Mark the positions for the hinges on both the wardrobe frame and the shutters.
Drill pilot holes for the hinges.
Attach the hinges to the shutters using screws, ensuring they are aligned properly. Mounting Shutters:
Align the shutters with the wardrobe frame.
Attach the shutters to the wardrobe frame by securing the hinges with screws.
Check for proper alignment and adjust as needed to ensure smooth operation.
Step 4: Hardware and Accessories
1. Handles and Knobs:
- Purpose: For opening and closing doors and drawers.
- Types: Stainless steel, brass, aluminum, ceramic, wood.
- Brands: Godrej, Hafele, Hettich, Ozone
2. Drawer Slides:
- Purpose: For smooth operation of drawers.
- Types: Ball bearing slides, roller slides, soft-close slides.
- Brands: Ebco, Hafele, Hettich
3. Hanging Rods:
- Purpose: For hanging clothes.
- Types: Stainless steel, aluminum, chrome-plated.
- Brands: Ebco, Hafele, Godrej
4. Locks:
- Purpose: For security.
- Types: Key locks, combination locks, electronic locks.
- Brands: Godrej, Europa, Dorset
5. Hinges:
- Purpose: For attaching doors to the wardrobe frame.
- Types: Concealed hinges, piano hinges.
- Brands: Ebco, Hafele, Hettich
6. Pull-Out Baskets:
- Purpose: For additional storage and organization.
- Types: Wire baskets, solid baskets.
- Brands: Ebco, Hafele, Hettich
7. Shoe Racks:
- Purpose: For organizing shoes.
- Types: Pull-out racks, fixed racks.
- Brands: Ebco, Hafele, Hettich
8. Tie and Belt Racks:
- Purpose: For organizing ties and belts.
- Types: Pull-out racks, hanging racks.
- Brands: Ebco, Hafele, Hettich
9. Pull-Out Mirrors:
- Purpose: For convenience.
- Types: Full-length mirrors, half-length mirrors.
- Brands: Ebco, Hafele, Hettich
10. Lights:
- Purpose: For visibility inside the wardrobe.
- Types: LED strip lights, recessed lights, battery-operated lights.
- Brands: Philips, Syska, Wipro
11. Shelves:
- Purpose: For storage of folded clothes and accessories.
- Types: Adjustable shelves, fixed shelves.
- Brands: CenturyPly, Greenply, Kitply
12. Dividers and Organizers:
- Purpose: For keeping items organized.
- Types: Drawer dividers, shelf organizers.
- Brands: Ebco, Hafele, Hettich
13. Clothes Lifts:
- Purpose: For easy access to high hanging spaces.
- Types: Pull-down rails.
- Brands: Ebco, Hafele, Hettich
14. Wardrobe Hooks:
- Purpose: For hanging bags, scarves, and accessories.
- Types: Fixed hooks, swivel hooks.
- Brands: Godrej, Ebco, Hafele
15. Soft-Close Mechanisms:
- Purpose: For smooth and quiet closing of doors and drawers.
- Types: Hydraulic hinges, soft-close drawer slides.
- Brands: Ebco, Hafele, Hettich
16. Pull-Out Ironing Boards:
- Purpose: For convenience in ironing clothes.
- Types: Foldable pull-out boards.
- Brands: Ebco, Hafele
For inspiration on building stylish and modern wardrobes that fit perfectly into your home, explore our blog on Modern Wardrobe Designs.
Step 5: External Laminate/Veneer
1. High-Pressure Laminate (HPL):
Made by compressing multiple layers of Kraft paper with phenolic resin and decorative paper with melamine resin under high temperature and pressure.
- Features: Durable, scratch-resistant, UV-resistant, available in a wide range of colors, textures, and patterns.
- Brands: Greenlam, Merino, CenturyLaminates
2. Low-Pressure Laminate (LPL):
Consists of resin-saturated decorative paper thermally fused onto a substrate.
- Features: Economical, available in various designs, less durable than HPL.
- Brands: Sunmica (by AICA Laminates), Durian Laminate, Royale Touche
3. Natural Wood Veneer:
Thin slices of natural wood, typically around 0.6 to 6 mm thick, obtained by slicing or peeling a log.
- Features: Elegant appearance, unique grain patterns, enhances natural beauty of wood.
- Brands: Greenply Veneers, Century Veneers, Durian Veneers
4. Engineered Wood Veneer:
Made from thin slices of real wood adhered to a substrate (like MDF or plywood) to improve stability and reduce cost.
- Features: More consistent in color and grain pattern than natural veneer, environmentally friendly.
- Brands: Greenply Veneers, Century Veneers, Durian Veneers
5. Decorative Foils:
Thin decorative sheets made from PVC or PET, cost-effective alternative to laminates.
- Features: Lightweight, easy to install, available in various designs and es.
- Brands: Xylo, Geetex, Amulya Mica
6. Acrylic Panels:
High-gloss panels made from acrylic sheets, offering a modern and sleek appearance.
- Features: Mirror-like finish, scratch-resistant, UV-resistant, vibrant colors.
- Brands: Alstone Acrylic, Merino Acrylic, Greenlam Sturdo
7. Metallic Laminates:
Laminates with metallic finishes, providing a contemporary and industrial look.
- Features: Reflective surface, modern aesthetics, durable.
- Brands: Greenlam, Merino, CenturyLaminates
8. MDF
MDF (Medium-Density Fiberboard) is primarily used as a material in the construction of wardrobes rather than as a finish itself. It serves as a versatile substrate for various finishes such as paint, laminate, veneer, or PU (Polyurethane) coating. Here’s how MDF is typically used in wardrobes:
1. **Material for Components**: MDF is used to construct the main structural components of the wardrobe, including panels, shelves, sides, and sometimes even doors and drawers. Its smooth surface and uniform density make it suitable for further finishing.
2. **Substrate for Finishes**: Once constructed, MDF is then finished with a chosen material or technique:
- ** Paint**: MDF can be painted to achieve a smooth and uniform color finish.
- **Laminate**: A laminate can be applied to MDF to provide a decorative and durable surface.
- **Veneer**: MDF can be veneered with a thin layer of real wood to mimic the appearance of solid wood.
- **PU (Polyurethane) Coating**: PU coating is applied to MDF to provide a protective and glossy finish.
3. **Customization**: MDF allows for customization in terms of finishes and designs, making it a versatile choice for wardrobes in various styles and aesthetics.
In summary, while MDF itself is not typically used as a finish, it is extensively used as a material in constructing wardrobes, providing a stable and customizable base that can be finished in multiple ways to achieve desired aesthetics and functionalities.
Interior Designers Tip:
Laminate, even at a low cost, offers a finish that resembles veneer, providing a cost-effective alternative without compromising on aesthetic appeal. It is known for its durability and ease of maintenance, requiring less upkeep compared to traditional veneer finishes. This makes laminate a practical choice for those seeking a stylish yet low-maintenance option for their furniture and interior surfaces.
In conclusion, selecting the right material for your wardrobe can turn it from a simple storage space into a stylish expression of your taste. While style is important, don't forget the main purpose of a wardrobe – to be useful. Consider your storage needs and how well the chosen material fits into your daily life.
FAQs:
Which brand sells the best wood for the wardrobes?
Confors Ply, Archidply, CENTURY PLY, Duro, Greenply etc. are few of the most trusted brands in India to buy plywood for wardrobe from.
Which material is the most economical option?
How can I maximize storage space in my wardrobe?
Why choose Pescora Design for your interior design?
How do I incorporate technology into my modern wardrobe design?
How do I maintain the appearance of high-gloss wardrobe finishes?
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