Fitted wardrobes are a great way to maximise storage in your bedroom while adding a sleek, tailored look. They can provide up to 40% more storage compared to freestanding wardrobes and are custom-built to fit perfectly into your space, even in tricky areas like sloped ceilings or corners. Here’s a quick overview of what you’ll learn:
- Why choose fitted wardrobes?
- Use 100% of your available space.
- Customised designs for your needs and style.
- Boost property value and offer long-term durability.
- Cost and pricing:
- Starting at around £3,000, with prices varying based on materials, size, and features.
- Average cost per linear metre: £530–£770.
- Design options:
- Tailored layouts like hanging rails, drawers, and pull-out accessories.
- Door styles include sliding, hinged, or bi-fold.
- Materials range from solid wood to glass or MDF.
- Installation timeline:
- Design to installation takes 3–6 weeks. Fitting usually takes 1–3 days.
- Maintenance tips:
- Clean surfaces with the right products and check hardware regularly.
Whether you’re looking for more storage or a seamless design, fitted wardrobes are a smart, lasting investment for your home.
Why Choose Fitted Wardrobes?
Making the Most of Your Space
Fitted wardrobes are designed to make the best use of every inch of space. Unlike freestanding wardrobes that often leave awkward gaps, these built-in solutions are tailored to fit perfectly, from floor to ceiling. They’re especially useful in homes with tricky layouts or unique architectural features.
Rachel Hutcheson, National Retail Manager at Sharps, highlights this advantage: "A well-designed fitted wardrobe can offer on average 40% more space than a one-size-fits-all design". This extra storage comes from using areas that are often overlooked, such as:
- Corners and alcoves
- Space under sloping ceilings
- Areas around windows and radiators
- Full vertical height
"Designing a bedroom that has a non-conventional layout is always one of our favourite challenges. It’s often the case when our designers sit down with customers and start brainstorming ideas, they discover possibilities they had never even thought of".
Beyond just functionality, these wardrobes add a touch of design flexibility that enhances the look of any room.
Style and Function
Fitted wardrobes don’t just solve storage issues – they can also elevate the style of a room. Tom Howley, Creative Design Director at Tom Howley, puts it simply: "The benefit of bespoke fitted wardrobes is that you can design them to use all of this space".
Some standout features include:
- Custom internal layouts
- Pull-out shoe racks and jewellery drawers
- Integrated lighting
- Mirrors and dressing areas
- Sliding doors
By transforming awkward spaces into sleek storage solutions, fitted wardrobes make rooms feel larger. Clean lines and vertical designs draw the eye upwards, creating a more open, uncluttered look.
Investment and Durability
Fitted wardrobes are built to last, often using high-quality materials and backed by warranties that can extend over a decade. This durability not only ensures long-term functionality but can also boost property value.
Here’s a quick comparison between fitted and freestanding wardrobes:
| Feature | Fitted Wardrobes | Freestanding Wardrobes |
|---|---|---|
| Space Utilisation | Uses 100% of available space | Leaves gaps and unused areas |
| Customisation | Tailored to room and needs | Limited to standard sizes |
| Durability | High-quality, long-lasting | Quality varies, less durable |
| Property Value | Can increase home value | No impact on property value |
| Flexibility | Permanent installation | Can be moved or replaced |
The value of fitted wardrobes often extends beyond storage, as potential buyers appreciate their practicality and style. Opting for sustainable materials and eco-friendly finishes can also make them a more environmentally conscious choice.
Fitted Wardrobe Prices
What Affects the Price
The cost of a fitted wardrobe depends on factors like material quality, design complexity, and installation requirements. For example, solid wood options are more expensive than laminate, and intricate designs for awkward spaces can increase both labour and material costs.
Key factors influencing price include:
- Material and finish: High-end finishes like solid wood or gloss are pricier than basic laminates.
- Internal features: Extras like drawers, shelves, and hanging rails can add to the cost.
- Door types: Sliding doors may cost more than hinged ones, depending on the mechanism.
- Lighting and accessories: Built-in lighting or custom handles are additional expenses.
- Installation difficulty: Complex layouts or unusual room shapes require more time and effort.
- Brand: Well-known brands often charge a premium.
Price Guide
Here’s a quick look at the average costs of different fitted wardrobe setups. For instance, Spaceslide offers a basic 2-door sliding wardrobe starting at £723.18, while their 4-door options begin at £1,378.88.
| Configuration | Average Price Range |
|---|---|
| Standard 3-door fitted | £3,250 |
| 3-door sliding | £3,700 |
| 6-door wide fitted | £4,800 |
| 2-section custom-built | £3,400 |
| Corner fitted | £600 – £980 |
For a rough estimate, plan for £530–£770 per linear metre. Installation typically costs an additional £250–£400 per day, with carpenter rates averaging £270 daily.
Cost vs Value
While the upfront cost of a fitted wardrobe might seem high, it’s a long-term investment. These wardrobes usually last 15–20 years, far outliving most freestanding options. They also offer greater storage capacity and can enhance your home’s value.
If you’re on a budget, consider hiring a local carpenter, as they often charge less than large national companies. Fitted wardrobes are a smart choice for maximising space and adding lasting value to your home.
Fitted Wardrobes Ideas – Built In Wardrobe Designs
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Design Options
Customising your wardrobe design not only improves how it works for you but also enhances the look of your home, making fitted wardrobes both practical and stylish.
Storage Layout Options
Tailor the inside of your fitted wardrobe to match your storage needs. Modern designs come with plenty of options to make the most of your space.
- Full-length hanging rails are perfect for dresses and coats.
- Double hanging sections work well for shirts and trousers.
- Pull-down rails make use of high spaces while staying easy to reach.
- Deep drawers are great for folded clothes, while shallow drawers can hold accessories and undergarments.
- Add custom drawer inserts to keep smaller items like jewellery or ties neatly organised.
Once your layout is sorted, pick materials and door styles to complete the design.
Materials and Door Types
The materials and doors you choose should fit your style, last long, and work with your room’s size.
| Material | Benefits | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Solid Wood | Long-lasting, high-end appearance | Traditional homes, long-term use |
| MDF | Affordable, can be painted | Modern looks, budget projects |
| Plywood | Resists moisture, stays stable | Humid areas |
| Glass/Mirror | Reflects light, makes rooms feel bigger | Small spaces, modern designs |
For door options:
- Sliding doors save space in compact rooms.
- Hinged doors offer full access, ideal for larger spaces.
- Bi-fold doors are a practical choice for tighter areas.
Extra Features
Take your fitted wardrobe to the next level with added features that combine style and practicality:
- Integrated lighting: Motion-sensor LED strips to brighten the interior.
- Organisation tools: Pull-out shoe racks, jewellery trays, and tie racks.
- Mirrors: Add full-length mirrors to door panels.
- Smart storage: Counterbalanced hanging rails for hard-to-reach areas.
- Decorative options: Feature panels in various finishes.
For instance, Sharps provides slatted and non-slatted feature panels, allowing you to match your wardrobe to your bedroom’s style while keeping it functional.
Installation Timeline
From design to fitting, getting a fitted wardrobe involves several steps, so careful planning is essential. This timeline works hand-in-hand with the design, pricing, and maintenance details covered earlier.
Design and Planning Steps
Once you’ve chosen your custom design, a well-organised planning phase ensures everything runs smoothly until installation.
| Stage | Duration | Key Activities |
|---|---|---|
| Design Consultation | 1–2 weeks | Measurements, style preferences, storage needs |
| Design Development | 2–4 weeks | Creating detailed plans, selecting materials, pricing |
| Material Sourcing | 1–2 weeks | Ordering components, checking availability |
| Production | 4–6 weeks | Manufacturing custom elements |
Before installation begins, make sure walls and floors are ready, and address any structural issues. If you’re adding integrated lighting, bring this up during your initial consultation to avoid delays.
Build and Install Time
The time it takes to install your wardrobe depends on several factors. For most fitted wardrobes, installation is completed in 1–3 days, though simpler designs might be done in just 24 hours. From placing the order to finishing the project, the total process usually takes 3–6 weeks.
Factors like wardrobe size, materials, special features, site access, and the unique dimensions of UK homes can all influence installation time.
To prepare, clear the area, check that walls and floors are level, confirm delivery of all materials, and hire skilled installers. Delivery times can vary depending on the brand and design, typically ranging from 6 to 14 weeks.
Care and Maintenance
Cleaning Guide
Keeping your fitted wardrobe clean depends on the materials used. Here’s a quick reference for handling different surfaces:
| Surface Type | Cleaning Method | Recommended Products |
|---|---|---|
| Wood Finish | Use a soft, dry cloth; add a polish if needed | Specialist wood polish |
| Glass/Mirror | Apply glass cleaner with a lint-free cloth | Non-ammonia glass cleaner |
| Interior Surfaces | Wipe with a damp cloth and mild soap; dry thoroughly | Diluted washing-up liquid |
| Door Tracks | Clean with a damp cloth and mild detergent | Silicone-based lubricant (optional) |
Steer clear of harsh chemicals and always test cleaning products on a hidden area first. Aim to clean your wardrobe every three months – or sooner if dust or stains are noticeable.
Upkeep Tips
Looking after your wardrobe regularly keeps it in top shape and working smoothly.
- Moisture Control
Ensure proper air circulation by leaving doors slightly open or using a dehumidifier if dampness becomes an issue. - Hardware Checks
Inspect and tighten door hinges, tracks, and runners now and then to keep everything aligned and functioning well.
These small efforts go a long way in preserving both the look and performance of your wardrobe.
Professional Repairs
"By following these tips, you can help to keep your fitted wardrobe looking its best for years to come, keeping your fitted wardrobe clean and well-maintained is crucial for its longevity and appearance." – Metro Wardrobe
For major issues like broken mechanisms, damaged surfaces, or persistent misalignment, it’s best to call in a professional repair service.
Conclusion
Fitted wardrobes bring both style and practicality to your home. They create a sleek, tailored look while making the most of your available space.
Prices for fitted wardrobes generally start at around £3,000, including VAT and installation. While this is more than freestanding options, the long-term benefits often make it a worthwhile investment.
"Your investment is always recouped when you sell your house because of the premium that buyers put on storage, especially in London homes."
– Matthew Nagel, director at Neatsmith
Here are some factors to keep in mind:
| Consideration | Ideal for Fitted Wardrobes If You: |
|---|---|
| Space | Have tricky layouts or sloped ceilings |
| Timeline | Plan to stay in your home for years |
| Storage | Need tailored storage solutions |
| Style | Prefer a built-in, seamless design |
| Budget | Are ready to invest in quality materials and expert fitting |
Taking care of your wardrobe ensures it retains its value and functionality. As Jennifer Metcalfe, a Hammonds customer, shares:
"When you add young kids into the mix, I would say that having storage solutions can only enhance your home life. Tidy house, tidy mind!".
Whether you go for a simpler design at £800 per linear metre or a high-end option, careful planning and quality craftsmanship are crucial. With the right approach, a fitted wardrobe can improve both your living space and your home’s value.
