Types of Knock Down Wardrobes

Large ornamental wardrobes don't fit everyone's lifestyle.Antique Wardrobe with Wood Carvings image by Yali Shi from Fotolia.com

In the modern era, people are more likely to move from place to place than they have been in generations past. Large bulky furniture is inconvenient when it comes time to pack up and move. As a way to help combat this relocating annoyance, companies are now manufacturing knock-down (or flat pack) wardrobes that can be both assembled and taken apart quickly for easy transportation.

Fabric Wardrobe

The type of knock-down wardrobe easiest to assemble is the fabric wardrobe. Depending on the style and model, the structure of this wardrobe is a series of metal interlocking or screwed pipes, covered by fabric. Designs range from a single rack across the top for hanging clothing, to those with shelving at the top or along one side. The canvas or fabric covering is specifically sized to the metal wardrobe's structure and usually has a zipper closure. While some of the coverings are very basic or plain, designs are available that fit a variety of tastes including bright, colorful wardrobes for children's bedrooms and those with clean, sleek lines for a more contemporary look.

Designed for function rather than visual aesthetics, wardrobe cabinets are constructed of laminated plywood and offer a great deal of versatility. The most compact version of a wardrobe cabinet is small and has only a single rack across the top. Wider wardrobes are ideal when storage space is limited. Available models with doors feature inside sections to hang clothes, plus secondary areas with shelving and possibly drawers.

While laminated plywood is the standard building material for wooden knock-down wardrobes, an alternative to this material is reclaimed wood. Reclaimed wood has texture and is able to hold either stain or paint. Reclaimed wood wardrobes have a more classic appearance with paneled doors.