No closet in the bedroom, seven ways to build one.

Many New York bedrooms have no closet. It's common in converted lofts, older walk-ups where closets were removed, and apartments where the second bedroom was carved out of a living room. Freestanding wardrobes take floor space and rarely fit the ceiling. Built-ins do better.

1. A full wardrobe wall

One wall of floor-to-ceiling wardrobes, 24 inches deep, holds as much as a small walk-in. See built-in wardrobes.

2. Towers and a bridge over the bed

Two wardrobe towers either side of the bed with a cabinet bridging above. It uses the wall behind the bed, which is usually empty.

3. Wardrobes around the window

Towers either side of a window with a seat or desk between them, often over a radiator cover.

4. Fill the alcove

Alcoves beside chimney breasts or columns become a closet with doors flush to the wall.

5. A shallow wall where depth is tight

Where 24 inches is too much, a 14 to 16 inch cabinet with pull-out hangers and drawers still stores a lot.

6. Murphy bed plus wardrobe

In a guest room or office, a Murphy bed between wardrobe towers frees the floor during the day.

7. The entry wall

If the bedroom truly can't take storage, build a coat and wardrobe wall in the entry and keep the bedroom calm.

Before you build

Measure ceiling height, check for radiators, outlets and vents, and confirm whether your building needs approval. A free 3D design shows each option in your room.