How to Choose Space-Savvy Chest of Drawers

When space is tight, every inch counts, and that’s exactly when vertical storage becomes your best friend. You’d be surprised how much room you can unlock from those awkward alcoves, behind-the-door gaps, or narrow end-of-bed corners. These spaces are usually a decorator’s nightmare, but with the right chest drawers, they turn into smart storage goldmines.

Don’t worry! We’re not talking about bulky, clunky units that swallow the room and kill the flow. We’re talking sleek, slim designs that do the heavy lifting without getting in your way.

Go Vertical: Tallboys & Compact Chests

When you can’t spread out, it’s time to stack up. Tallboys and vertical chests of drawers give you the storage you need with the smallest possible footprint. These are ideal for slim alcoves, narrow corners, or that awkward patch behind a bedroom door — places where wide furniture just won’t work.

Top picks:

• High gloss 5-drawer tallboy: A slimline unit that adds serious vertical storage without crowding the room. The gloss finish reflects light, making smaller bedrooms feel brighter and more open.

• Slim 3-drawer units: Great for lighter-use items, secondary storage, or even in kids’ rooms where floor space is tight.

Fancy seeing more options? Browse the full chest of drawer collection.

Short on Height? Space Saving Dressers for Low Ceilings

Not a fan of tall furniture? Low ceilings in your flat? No problem. Compact chests and combo drawers still pack a punch.

Mini 2- or 3-drawer chests work perfectly as bedside tables while also pulling double duty as printer stands, laptop desks, or even TV stands in a pinch. They’re small, yes — but mighty.

And if you’re juggling accessories and chunky jumpers, a combo chest with mixed drawer sizes gives you smart categorisation without cluttering your space.

Smart buys:

High gloss 2-drawer bedside: Sleek, compact, and surprisingly roomy. 

Shaker style 2-drawer bedside: A more traditional vibe with zero bulk. If you want you can even choose a double chest of drawers as well. 

• Shaker 3-drawer bedside: Balanced and practical, with versatile storage depth.

They’re small but mighty — like a Yorkshire Terrier that somehow manages to guard the whole house.

Bonus: Every one of these bedroom storage drawers is under 45 cm wide, which is perfect for tight bedrooms or tucked-in corners.

Light Colours for an Airier Feel

If your bedroom feels more cramped than a “suite”, lighter finishes are your best friend. Pale colours reflect light, making tight rooms feel more open and airy, a classic trick for UK terraces and box rooms.

High-gloss finishes are especially effective. 

A bright white chest of drawers bedroom piece beautifully bounces light around the room, helping to brighten even the gloomiest corners. Pair it with clean lines and minimalist handles, and you’ve got a piece that feels sleek, modern, and totally space-enhancing.

Prefer a bit of warmth or texture? Go for painted shaker-style drawers in soft greys or off-whites. They still keep things visually light but add a touch of rustic charm — ideal if you're styling a cottage flat or mixing old with new.

What to Look Out For in Small Space-Friendly Drawers

Before you click “add to basket”, make sure your new drawers tick more than just the budget box. When you're furnishing a tight UK home, whether it's a studio flat or a two-up-two-down, you need storage that’s smart, sturdy, and sized right. Here's your no-nonsense checklist:

✅ Budget-friendly — but doesn’t scream “flat-pack regrets”

Think clean finishes, a solid feel, and no wobbles. Great design can be affordable — especially if you're after budget drawers for limited space.

✅ Engineered wood that holds up to real life

Look for strong particle board or MDF builds that can handle regular use (and the occasional move).

✅ Anti-tip safety features

Especially important in family homes — the best shallow chest of drawers for small spaces come with wall anchors or built-in stability.

✅ Assembly that won’t wreck your weekend

Skip the fiddly stuff. Choose units that go together easily, with clear instructions (and preferably no missing screws).

✅ Deep drawers + solid runners

You want storage you can actually use not drawers that jam the second they’re full. Smooth glide, deep capacity, job done.

✅ Dimensions that match UK homes

Aim for smart sizing, like a 40cm deep chest of drawers, so you’re not blocking doors or taking over walkways.

Want a head start? 

Our best chest of drawers for tight spaces will do all the hard work for you. Browse through to pick the ones that you love. Source: Dream Home Store