10 Smart Ideas for a 230mm x 100 Deep Bedroom Closet: Creative ways I maximize ultra-narrow closet spaces without losing style

One time, a client asked me to design a closet in a space so narrow I thought they were joking — 230mm wide by 100cm deep. That’s barely enough for a coat hanger to breathe! But that little design challenge turned into one of my favorite projects, proving yet again that small spaces push creativity further than big ones ever will. In this article, I’ll share 10 clever ideas that I’ve tested in my years of work — some even inspired by other tight-space wins, like when we used a room planner to reconfigure a studio without losing storage.

1. Go vertical with pull-out shelves

In a closet this narrow, horizontal storage is a no-go. Pull-out vertical shelving lets you store folded items, shoes, or accessories and brings them into view without fighting the depth.

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2. Use slimline pull-out hanging rails

Instead of a front-hanging rod, use sideways pull-out rails. They’re perfect for shirts or pants and use the depth in a more ergonomic way.

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3. Install wall hooks at graded heights

Hooks aren’t glamorous, but in 230mm width, they’re lifesavers. Use staggered heights to store bags, belts, or scarves without overlap.

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4. Overhead shelf for seasonal storage

The top 200mm can hold flat storage boxes for off-season clothes. Just remember to label everything for easy switching.

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5. Mirror the inside of the door

A slim mirror glued to the inner face saves wall space elsewhere and makes the closet feel deeper. Bonus: quick outfit checks without moving.

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6. Pocket door instead of a swing door

Sliding or pocket doors free up valuable room around the closet. I once suggested this while working with a free floor plan creator to help a client visualize flow, and it made a world of difference.

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7. Magnetic strip for accessories

Think kitchen knife strip — but for metal accessories, keys, or even hair tools. Saves drawer space and looks oddly chic.

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8. LED strip lighting along the sides

Good lighting makes narrow spaces functional. Side-mounted LED strips avoid shadows and help you find items instantly.

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9. Custom-fitted drawers at the base

Low drawers can slide out fully, maximizing the floor area. They’re great for socks, undergarments, or folded tees.

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10. Hang a slim pull-out shoe rack

Shoes take up surprising space. A narrow sliding shoe rack uses depth effectively — similar to solutions we mapped out in a kitchen layout planner when reworking pantry shelves.

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FAQ

1. Can you really make a 230mm wide closet functional?

Yes, but it requires vertical storage, sliding mechanisms, and creative use of depth. Every centimeter matters.

2. What’s the best door type for such a narrow closet?

Pocket or sliding doors are ideal because they free up exterior floor space that swing doors would block.

3. How deep should a closet be for hanging clothes?

Standard is 550–600mm, so with 1000mm depth, you can use sideways hanging rails to fit in a narrow width.

4. Is custom furniture worth it for a tight closet?

Absolutely. Custom fit-outs ensure no space is wasted and everything fits perfectly, especially at unusual dimensions.

5. How do I add lighting to a small closet?

Battery-powered LED strips or motion-sensor lights work well without complex wiring.

6. Should I use drawers or shelves?

Mix both. Drawers for small items, shelves for folded clothes or boxes — tailored to your daily habits.

7. Any budget-friendly hacks?

Use pegboards or tension rods to create flexible, low-cost storage layouts.

8. Where can I experiment with design before building?

Online tools and planners can help you visualize. Check out this 3D floor planner for easy mock-ups.