ᐅ How can I best plan the space around a Brimnes unit that I purchased late in the process?

Hello everyone,

I recently bought an IKEA Brimnes wardrobe at the last minute and now I’m facing the challenge of how to best integrate it into the room. My question is: What considerations and practical tips can you share for fitting the Brimnes functionally and aesthetically into my space when the rest of the furniture is already in place? I’m especially interested in advice on room layout, using niches or free areas, possible combinations with other furniture, as well as lighting or color scheme suggestions that make the late purchase appear as a harmonious part of the overall room rather than an afterthought.

The Brimnes wardrobe is white, and the room is about 12 square meters (130 square feet) with a window on the opposite wall. The room is mainly used as a bedroom, but I still want to create a pleasant, calm atmosphere that doesn’t feel overcrowded. Thanks in advance for your tips and experiences!

Hello Minge64,

First of all, it’s a good approach to plan the room carefully, especially when the wardrobe is added at a later stage. I assume you are planning to use the Brimnes as a wardrobe? The model is really practical and sturdy, but because of its size, you should carefully consider how the usable space around it is arranged.

You should start by taking exact measurements of the wardrobe and measure the room very precisely. Mark the area the wardrobe will occupy on the floor, ideally with painter’s tape. This will help you see exactly how much free space you have left. Since it is a bedroom, it is important to leave at least 60 cm (24 inches) between the wardrobe doors and other furniture or walkways, so the doors can open fully and the room doesn’t feel cramped.

Since the Brimnes wardrobe is quite simple, you can enhance it through smart color choices. You said white – great, because white allows you to adapt the walls or flooring afterward with accessories in pastel or soft natural tones. I especially recommend combining lower furniture pieces like a small sideboard or a bedside table around the wardrobe to create a cohesive furniture ensemble rather than it looking like an isolated element.

Lighting also plays a major role: LED spotlights above the wardrobe or subtle backlighting can highlight it visually while enhancing the overall room atmosphere. Especially when the wardrobe is introduced spontaneously, a targeted lighting setup can help achieve a unified look.

I also wonder if you have any alcoves in the room where you could optimally fit the Brimnes? Sometimes it’s worth placing the wardrobe not against the “main wall” but in a niche or a less central spot that would otherwise remain unused.

Are there any other existing furniture items in the room that you want to integrate or have to consider? This could influence your layout.

I hope this already helps! If you like, you can share more details about the room or photos so I can offer more specific advice.

Hi,

I would recommend:
- Do not place the wardrobe just anywhere; always choose a wall surface.
- Keep a clearance of at least 60cm (24 inches) from doors and windows.
- Use low furniture next to the Brimnes to create a harmonious look.
- White works well with warm lighting; consider LED spotlights above.
- If possible, place a mirror next to or on the wardrobe to visually enlarge the space.

This way, you can make better use of the room without the furniture feeling out of place.

Lance schrieb:
Since you have a bedroom, it is important to maintain at least 60 cm (24 inches) of clearance between the wardrobe door and other furniture or walkways.

That is exactly the most important point. Measure carefully, otherwise the room will quickly feel cramped. Otherwise, try to fit the wardrobe into a niche or against a smaller wall. Avoid side tables if the space is limited. Instead, make the most of the storage capacity inside the wardrobe.

For lighting, choose warm light to create a more comfortable atmosphere.