Choosing the Right Armoire Size
Armoire sizes are measured by width, depth, and height in inches. The most common widths are 30, 40, 48, and 60 inches. Standard depth ranges from 20 to 24 inches, while height typically measures 72 inches, though tall models reach 84 inches. Choosing the right size depends on your wardrobe size, bedroom dimensions, and whether the armoire serves as primary storage or supplements a closet. An undersized armoire leaves clothing unorganized, while an oversized piece dominates the room and wastes floor space.
Armoire dimensions refer to exterior measurements, but interior space is what matters for storage. A 40 inch wide armoire has approximately 36 inches of usable interior width after accounting for side panels and door frames. Hanging rods span this interior width, while shelves and drawers occupy one side or bottom sections. Always check interior specifications when comparing models, as construction methods and materials affect usable capacity despite identical exterior dimensions.
History and Evolution of Armoire Sizing
Armoires originated in medieval Europe as freestanding wooden cabinets for storing armor, eventually evolving into clothing storage as wardrobes became essential furniture. The term armoire comes from the French word for arms or weapons. By the 17th and 18th centuries, armoires were ornate pieces in wealthy homes, often custom built to fit specific rooms. Standard sizing emerged in the 20th century with mass production, focusing on widths that accommodate modern clothing while fitting through doorways.
The 40 inch width became standard because it balances storage capacity with maneuverability. A 40 inch armoire fits through standard 32 to 36 inch doorways when tilted or disassembled, making delivery and room placement practical. Heights settled at 72 inches to maximize vertical storage without hitting standard 96 inch ceilings, leaving clearance for moving and cleaning. Depths of 22 to 24 inches accommodate hanging clothes on hangers, which require 20 to 22 inches including the rod and garment depth.
Common Armoire Sizes Explained
A 30 inch narrow armoire is the smallest practical wardrobe size, offering about 24 inches of hanging space. This fits 15 to 20 hanging items and includes upper shelves for folded clothing or storage boxes. Narrow armoires suit small bedrooms, guest rooms, or as supplemental storage alongside built in closets. They work well in apartments where floor space is limited but vertical storage is available.
A 40 inch standard armoire is the most popular size, providing 36 inches of hanging space for 25 to 30 items. Most 40 inch models include a hanging section on one side and shelves or drawers on the other, creating versatile storage. This size fits most bedrooms comfortably and handles typical seasonal wardrobes. A 48 inch wide armoire adds more hanging space or additional drawers, suitable for couples sharing storage or individuals with extensive wardrobes.
A 60 inch extra wide armoire offers maximum storage with 56 inches of interior width, often divided into three sections with two hanging areas and a center shelf and drawer section. This size replaces built in closets in older homes or serves as a walk in closet alternative. It requires significant floor space and is best for master bedrooms or dressing rooms. Compact 24 inch armoires exist for children's rooms or minimal storage needs, holding about 10 hanging items.
How to Choose the Right Armoire Size
Start by assessing your wardrobe size. Count hanging items including dresses, suits, coats, and shirts. Add folded items that need shelf space like sweaters and jeans. Consider seasonal rotation needs if you store off season clothing elsewhere. A minimal wardrobe of 15 items fits a 30 inch armoire, while 30 to 40 items need a 40 to 48 inch model. Extensive wardrobes exceeding 50 items require 60 inch armoires or multiple pieces.
Measure your available floor space carefully. An armoire needs clearance for door operation, typically 30 to 36 inches in front for hinged doors. Sliding doors require minimal clearance but sacrifice some interior access. Measure doorways and hallways to ensure delivery is possible. Many armoires disassemble or have removable doors, but verify this before purchasing large models. Consider ceiling height for tall armoires, leaving several inches of clearance.
Interior Configurations and Features
Armoire interiors vary widely despite similar exterior dimensions. Common configurations include a single hanging rod with upper shelves, split designs with hanging space on one side and shelves or drawers on the other, or full hanging space with a bottom drawer. Adjustable shelves add flexibility for changing storage needs. Drawers are ideal for undergarments, accessories, and folded items but reduce hanging space.
Some armoires include specialty features like pull out jewelry trays, tie racks, or built in mirrors. These add functionality but reduce general storage capacity. Consider whether you need these features or prefer maximum space for standard clothing. Hanging rods should be sturdy metal rather than thin dowels, especially in wider armoires holding many garments. Check weight ratings if storing heavy coats or suits.
Door Styles and Space Considerations
Hinged doors are traditional and provide full access to the interior. They require significant clearance to open fully, typically equal to the armoire width. A 40 inch armoire needs 40 inches of clearance in front when doors are open. Sliding doors save space by eliminating swing clearance but only expose half the interior at once. Mirrored doors add functionality as dressing mirrors and make rooms feel larger but require regular cleaning.
Bi fold doors compromise between hinged and sliding styles, requiring less clearance than hinged doors while providing better access than sliders. They work well in tighter spaces but add mechanical complexity. Door quality affects longevity, so check hinges, tracks, and hardware. Soft close mechanisms prevent slamming and extend door life. Ensure doors align properly and close securely, as warped or misaligned doors indicate construction issues.
Material and Construction Quality
Armoire materials range from solid wood to engineered wood products like MDF and particleboard. Solid wood armoires are heavy, durable, and expensive, often heirloom quality. Engineered wood reduces cost and weight but varies in quality. Look for furniture grade plywood or high density fiberboard rather than cheap particleboard. Veneer finishes should be well applied without bubbling or peeling.
Construction quality determines stability and longevity. Check for dovetail joints in drawers, sturdy back panels, and reinforced corners. Lightweight armoires may tip if heavily loaded or if doors are opened forcefully, so consider anchoring to walls for safety, especially in homes with children. Adjustable feet help level the armoire on uneven floors, preventing door misalignment.
Placement and Room Compatibility
Armoire placement affects room flow and functionality. Position armoires against walls rather than blocking windows or pathways. Leave space for door operation and access to drawers. In bedrooms, place armoires near dressing areas but not blocking closet access. Ensure adequate lighting for selecting clothing, either from room lighting or by adding interior lights.
Consider visual proportion when selecting armoire size. A massive 60 inch armoire overwhelms a small bedroom, while a narrow 30 inch piece looks lost in a large master suite. Match armoire style and finish to existing furniture for cohesive design. Dark finishes make armoires appear heavier and more prominent, while light finishes blend better in smaller spaces. Mirrored doors help large armoires feel less imposing.
Practical Tips for Armoire Selection
Before purchasing, create a paper template matching the armoire footprint and place it in your room to visualize space usage. Open and close imaginary doors to ensure adequate clearance. Measure existing furniture to maintain balanced proportions. If buying online, carefully review dimensions and customer photos showing the piece in real rooms for scale reference.
Finally, consider future needs when selecting size. If your wardrobe may grow or you plan to share the armoire, choose a larger size. However, do not buy excessive capacity you will never use, as empty space invites clutter. An armoire size guide with clear dimensions and capacity estimates helps you choose confidently, ensuring your wardrobe stays organized while the furniture complements your bedroom layout and style.