Open steel wardrobes: Benefits and considerations

An open steel wardrobe is not just an alternative to the classic wardrobe. It is a different way of thinking about storage – and a solution that does not necessarily suit everyone.

Where closed wardrobes hide their contents behind doors, an open wardrobe keeps clothing visible and easily accessible. This provides a clear overview of what you actually use in everyday life – but also places greater demands on structure and material choice.

What is an open wardrobe?

An open wardrobe is a storage solution without doors, built from hanging rails, shelves and modules where clothes, shoes and accessories are fully visible. The solution can be designed as a freestanding system, a modular setup or a walk-in wardrobe – depending on the space and the specific needs.

What all open wardrobes have in common is flexibility. The structure can be adapted to the room, adjusted over time and organised according to real-life needs rather than fixed standard dimensions.

An open wardrobe can work extremely well – but only if it is chosen thoughtfully. Below are five important considerations to help you decide whether an open steel wardrobe is the right solution for you.

1. Visibility requires conscious choices

An open wardrobe shows everything you own.

For many, this is an advantage because it makes everyday life easier. You can see your clothes, shoes and accessories at a glance and make quick decisions. However, it also requires a more deliberate approach to organisation.

If you tend to hide clutter behind closed doors, an open solution may feel challenging. On the other hand, many people find that visible storage leads to fewer items and better organisation.

2. Material makes a difference

Open wardrobes place high demands on materials.

Steel is particularly well suited because it:

• does not flex or warp over time
• can carry weight without bending
• retains its shape even with daily use

This ensures that shelves and hanging rails remain stable – even when the wardrobe is fully loaded.

3. Visual lightness matters more than you think

An open wardrobe has a stronger visual presence than a closed one.

For that reason, slim profiles and a simple construction are essential. Steel makes it possible to create light, open solutions that do not dominate the space – even in smaller entrances or bedrooms.

This is often where the difference between thoughtful design and more improvised solutions becomes apparent.

4. Flexibility extends the lifespan

Needs change over time.

A modular steel wardrobe can be adjusted, expanded or reconfigured as everyday life evolves. This extends the lifespan of the solution and allows the wardrobe to adapt, rather than needing to be replaced.

This is a clear advantage in homes where function and flexibility are highly valued.

5. Consider the function of the room – not just the look

An open wardrobe performs differently depending on where it is placed.

In the entrance, durability and quick access are often the main priorities. In the bedroom, calm and visual order matter most. Consider what the wardrobe primarily needs to do – and let that guide the design.

Is an open steel wardrobe the right choice?

If you are looking for:

• better everyday overview
• a solution that maintains form and function
• a calm, minimalist expression

… then an open steel wardrobe can be a strong choice.

To see how the solution works in practice, you can explore the AXIS wardrobe system – developed for flexible storage in steel.