Nov 18, 2025

A walk-in closet is a key indicator of quality living. As the true core of home storage, it cleverly combines aesthetics and functionality, offering flexibility and versatility. It transforms the space into a stage, making dressing up a fun experience.

So, how do you "squeeze" a walk-in closet into a small apartment?

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01 How Much Space Does a Walk-in Closet Need?

Is it true that you need at least 8-10 square meters to create a walk-in closet? To create a walk-in closet in a small apartment, you first need to avoid this misconception. Those "fantastic" walk-in closets with their own dedicated space are not within the scope of our discussion today. For small apartments, around 3 square meters is actually sufficient to create a walk-in closet.

Generally, such a mini walk-in closet is about 60cm deep, with a 60cm aisle width, totaling at least 120cm in width. Adding a length of 2.5 meters, it ultimately requires about 3 square meters of space.

02 Where Can It Be Stored?

Having understood the dimensions of a walk-in closet, the next step is to solve the question of "where can it fit?" Different apartment layouts require different locations for their tiny walk-in closets.

1. Entryway Walk-in Closet

This is suitable for entryways with a relatively large area. By rationally dividing the space, converting part of it into a walk-in closet is a great option.

2. Hallway Walk-in Closet

Utilizing a long, narrow hallway area to create a built-in wardrobe not only saves space but also provides a small walk-in closet, making the most of every inch of space in the home.

3. Bay Window Walk-in Closet

The area near a bay window is also an excellent location for a walk-in closet, particularly suitable for apartments that already have a small study.

4. Dining Room Converted into a Walk-in Closet

The original dining room was transformed into a separate walk-in closet. The orange double doors and begonia-patterned glass are quite eye-catching.

The square walk-in closet uses open shelving, making all clothes, bags, and accessories easily accessible, increasing efficiency before heading out.

5. Bedroom Walk-in Closet

Generally suitable for larger bedrooms, walk-in closets are often the most appropriate design choice. Clothes can be divided into compartments for categorized organization, and with a well-designed layout, even large wardrobes can be stored.

6. Attic Walk-in Closet

Many homeowners use attics as storage rooms, and walk-in closets are a common form of storage. Although attics are small and irregularly shaped, they are perfect for creating a compact and personalized space. Consider customizing a walk-in closet to fit the shape of your attic.

7. Unused Secondary Bedroom

If your secondary bedroom is rarely used, consider converting part of it into a walk-in closet.

A 2㎡ walk-in closet was squeezed out of the secondary bedroom. The wooden door can open 180° for a more harmonious visual effect.

The walk-in closet is mainly used to store out-of-season clothes, suitcases, sports equipment, and non-standard items. Its neatness and organization are crucial.

03 Walk-in Closet Design Considerations

1. Functional Zoning

Based on the type of clothing and layout, choose different areas for the walk-in closet, such as hanging areas, folding areas, underwear areas, shoe and sock areas, and bedding areas. For example, areas like hallways and entryways lack privacy, so bedding and shoe/sock areas can be designated.

2. Lighting Design

In enclosed spaces, such as long and narrow areas, areas against walls, and entryways, lighting is often insufficient. Lighting design is important. Ceiling lights can be installed, and LED strips can be installed inside the closet. For color temperature, it's recommended to choose bright white lighting for the walk-in closet, as many people use it for makeup and outfit coordination, and bright white light produces the most natural makeup look.

3. Air Circulation

Walk-in closets are spaces for storing clothes, so ventilation and moisture control are important. Especially if you choose a long, narrow area in a bedroom or a bay window area for your walk-in closet, it's prone to odors and mold, so ensure good air circulation.