Adding height to a dresser can completely transform a room. Whether you're aiming for a more modern aesthetic, need extra storage, or simply want to better complement your existing furniture, increasing your dresser's height is a worthwhile project. This guide provides a reliable roadmap, covering various methods and considerations to help you achieve the perfect height for your dresser.
Why Make Your Dresser Taller?
There are several compelling reasons to consider increasing your dresser's height:
- Increased Storage: A taller dresser naturally offers more storage space, perfect for clothing, linens, or other items.
- Aesthetic Improvement: Raising a dresser can significantly improve its visual appeal, creating a more balanced and modern look within your room's design.
- Better Proportion: A dresser that's too low can look disproportionate in a room. Raising it can create a more harmonious balance with other furniture pieces.
- Functionality Enhancement: A higher dresser can be more ergonomic, making it easier to access items stored inside.
Methods for Increasing Dresser Height
There are several approaches to making your dresser taller, each with its own advantages and disadvantages:
1. Adding Legs or Risers
This is perhaps the simplest and most affordable method. You can purchase pre-made dresser legs or risers from furniture stores, home improvement centers, or online retailers. Simply attach them to the bottom of your dresser.
Pros: Relatively inexpensive and easy to install. Many styles and materials available. Cons: May not significantly increase the height, depending on the riser height. Might not be suitable for all dresser designs.
2. Building a Custom Base
For a more substantial height increase and a customized look, consider building a custom base. This involves constructing a frame from wood or other materials and attaching it to the bottom of the dresser.
Pros: Allows for a significant height increase. Offers complete control over the design and materials. Cons: Requires woodworking skills and tools. More time-consuming and potentially expensive than using risers.
3. Using a Platform or Shelf
Placing your dresser on a platform or shelf is a quick and easy solution, especially if you want a temporary or easily removable height increase.
Pros: Simple and fast. Can be easily removed or repositioned. Offers a unique design element. Cons: May not be as stable as other methods. Reduces floor space.
Choosing the Right Method: Key Considerations
Before choosing a method, consider these factors:
- Desired Height Increase: How much taller do you want your dresser to be?
- Dresser Design: The style and construction of your dresser will influence which method is most appropriate.
- Your Skill Level: Building a custom base requires woodworking skills, while using risers is a simple DIY project.
- Budget: The cost of each method varies significantly.
Step-by-Step Guide: Adding Dresser Legs
This section provides a simple step-by-step guide for adding legs to your dresser:
- Measure your dresser: Accurately measure the width and depth of your dresser to ensure you purchase legs of the appropriate size.
- Choose your legs: Select legs that complement your dresser's style and the desired height increase.
- Attach the legs: Follow the manufacturer's instructions for attaching the legs. This might involve screwing, gluing, or using other fasteners.
- Check stability: After attaching the legs, ensure the dresser is stable and secure.
Remember to always prioritize safety and use appropriate tools and techniques.
Conclusion: Elevating Your Dresser, Elevating Your Style
By following this roadmap and considering your specific needs, you can successfully increase the height of your dresser and dramatically improve its functionality and aesthetics. Whether you choose to add simple risers or create a custom base, remember to prioritize safety and enjoy the transformation of your space!
