Corner Armoire Wardrobe

Way before closets, cabinets and wardrobes became ubiquitous in our homes, the Armoire occupied prime position. These simple two-door wooden cabinets were versatile enough to store everything from kitchenware to fine linen. It was circa 17th century that these underwent an ornate transformation, as artists like Andre-Charles Boulle created alluring and sumptuous designs for King Louis XIV. Today, the Armoire is trending again as vintage furniture tops the list of desirables for both architects and homeowners alike. And why not?

There’s nothing like an antique Armoire from the mid-17th century or the Art Nouveau period to grab some eyeballs. However, it would leave you poorer by at least $1500 if you are looking for one in prime condition.

Instead, you can easily buy a reproduction or a replica for less than $500. Some of the replicas look so authentic that it would take an expert to spot the difference. It features a distressed finish with shellac, patina on the iron hardware and even tiny imperfections that mimic the handcrafted wood of yesteryears.

If you intend to use it for displaying your ware, then you’d most likely have to settle for a reproduction because it is extremely rare to find an antique armoire with a clear glass panel.

Measure the space where you intend to place the corner armoire wardrobe. Make a note of the maximum and minimum available space. Since it will be placed in a corner, the width is of utmost importance lest you want it to jut out like a sore thumb. Lesser is better if it’s a small room. You can always expand vertically.

The size that you choose will also depend on what you intend to store in the armoire. If it’s for clothes, then you’d most likely need hanging space. If it’s for something else, like storing your antique collection maybe, then look for adjustable shelves.

An antique armoire will most likely be made using a blend of wood. The cheapest types of wood were used for the back and the bases. The front and the frame were made using oak before the 16th century while Mahogany and Walnut became more common after the 17th Century.

Reproductions, on the other hand, will be made from a single type of wood. Solid wood armoires will be pricier whereas MDF will be cheaper.

Antique designs blend easily with classic décor themes but might look out of the place in modern décor themes. They can easily be identified by the design. 17th Century designs were characterized by the expansive sizes, the use of side doors and drawers. 18th Century designs were mostly minimalistic with two or one doors and the onus was on the artwork, particularly the parquetry and the inlays.