While built-in closets tended to replace the clothing armoire during the middle portion of the 20th century, this time-honored piece of furniture has made a huge comeback in recent years. Providing both style and function to the home, the armoire is an ideal secondary storage unit that can be adapted to fit many different functions and settings. Because of the current popularity of this type of cabinet for the home, there are many different styles and sizes available today, making the task of choosing the right armoire a little daunting for the novice.
One of the first considerations when selecting a clothing armoire is to consider the function of the piece. Along with the traditional use as a closet, armoires today are often turned into cabinetry to house audio and video equipment, such as a television and a DVD player. Knowing how you will use the furniture piece will help, as some armoires are equipped with floating shelves that make it easy to adapt the unit for multiple functions.
Along with determining the function you have in mind, it is also important to choose a clothing armoire that is the right size for your space. A unit that is too small in scale will not add much to the function or look of the room, even if the design fits in with your other furnishings. At the same time, purchasing a clothing armoire that overpowers the rest of the room will make the space appear cramped and uninviting. Since armoires come in many different sizes, take the time to measure the space where you plan on placing the unit and settle on the height, width, and depth that the space will accommodate. This simple precaution will make it easier to focus on armoires that are the right size and not be distracted by those that are too small or too large.
There is also the matter of the design of the clothing armoire. Generally, the idea is to choose a design that fits in well with the other furnishings in the space. Depending on the décor, you may choose to go with a laminated or lacquered armoire that is contemporary in design, or something made with beautifully finished wood in a more traditional design. Choosing the right design for your storage armoire will preserve the harmony of the space and keep the room as inviting and comfortable as ever.
You may find that going with an antique armoire is your best option. Fortunately, it is possible to find these great clothing armoire options in more than just the local antique store. Head out into the countryside and dig through thrift shops and various country stores. There is every chance that you may find an armoire that dates from the late 19th or early 20th centuries and needs nothing more than a little cleaning or restoration to regain its former beauty. Best of all, you can usually purchase this antique at a much lower price than you would pay in a fancy store.
When looking for the right clothing armoire for your home, allow yourself to be guided by the scale and the design of each piece you consider. By taking time to look into all your options, you will eventually find the right armoire and enjoy it for many years to come.
