Expert Q&A: Transforming Alcoves into Functional Spaces with Bespoke Fitted Furniture
Alcoves often present a design challenge but, with the right approach, they can become some of the most functional and stylish spaces in your home. Whether you’re looking to transform alcoves, enhance bedroom storage with fitted wardrobes around a chimney breast, create a cosy nook or add a bespoke feature to your living room, fitted furniture can help you make the most of every inch.
We asked our experts to answer some of the most common questions about transforming alcove spaces with custom fitted wardrobes…
How do fitted wardrobes enhance the look and functionality of alcoves?
Freestanding furniture can be tricky to fit around original features in period properties, often resulting in a cluttered or mismatched look. Built-in wardrobes, on the other hand, can be designed to complement any shape and size of alcove, seamlessly integrating with your room’s aesthetic. Full height fitted wardrobes also draw the eye upwards, making the room appear larger while optimising vertical storage space.
The design shown here is Elise in Classic White.
Should an alcove be painted lighter or darker?
The choice of colour for an alcove depends on the effect you want to create. Lighter colours can make a space feel airier and more open, while darker shades add depth and create a cosy, intimate feel.
If you’re installing fitted wardrobes in your alcove, both dark and light-coloured doors work beautifully depending on the look you want to achieve. Navy blue and forest green will make a bold, stylish statement, while white, cashmere, and dove grey provide a timeless, elegant look.
This design features our stunning Venito fitted wardrobes in Fjord Green.
How can I balance asymmetrical alcoves in a room?
If your alcoves are uneven, installing custom shelving alongside a wardrobe can help create a visually balanced look. This approach makes the most of vertical space while maintaining symmetry, allowing you to keep both aesthetics and functionality in check.
The design shown here is from our Elise collection in Classic Blue, fitted for Amy @littlehouseinlondon.
How can I make the most of a small alcove?
With space at a premium in many UK homes, transforming alcoves into functional storage can be a game-changer. A great way to utilise a small alcove is by installing fitted wardrobes that stretch from floor to ceiling, incorporating hanging rails, drawers, and shelves to keep clutter at bay. If a full wardrobe isn’t an option, consider installing open shelves or a compact desk to create a mini home office or dressing table.
This design in customer favourite Cashmere colour is from our elegant Georgian Heritage collection.
What are the best storage solutions for a shallow alcove?
Shallow alcoves can still be incredibly useful for storage. Instead of deep wardrobes, consider custom-built shelving or slimline cupboards that offer hidden storage without overwhelming the space. You can also use the alcove for decorative displays, such as books, framed artwork, or stylish storage baskets.
This bespoke fitted alcove wardrobe is from our Shaker Classic collection.
Can an alcove be used for something other than storage?
Absolutely! Alcoves aren’t just for wardrobes—they can be transformed into functional spaces such as a cosy reading nook, a stylish dressing table, or even a mini home office. Installing vanity lights around a mirror can create a private grooming area, while adding floating shelves allows you to display decorative items or store personal accessories.
This clever vanity unit with built in storage from our Cassia range, shown here in cashmere, makes perfect use of an awkwardly shaped alcove that would have otherwise gone unused.
Feeling Inspired?
Whether you’re looking to enhance storage, create a functional workspace, or simply add a stylish touch to your alcove, bespoke fitted furniture is the key to making the most of every inch of your home.
Browse our full collection of fitted bedrooms and furniture at myfittedbedroom.com and book a FREE home design visit to find out more.