Written by: Zoona Sikander, Interior Design Writer & Social Media Content Creator
Edited by: Emma Cyrus, Senior Copy, Content & Editorial Writer
Reviewed by: Rey Amini, Senior Interior Designer & Architect
Fact-checked by: Benjamin Ibanez, Development & FF&E Manager

After deciding where to place your fitted wardrobe, it’s time to focus on aesthetics - so just what is the best material for built-in wardrobes?

There are so many different bases and finishes available and the best wardrobe designers will be able to combine them in a multitude of ways. It’s easy to become overwhelmed by choice!

To help you better understand the different options, we have prepared this comprehensive guide to built-in wardrobe materials, which will make your decision-making easier:

What are the different materials that can be used to build a wardrobe?

The structure of your built-in wardrobe will be made from a base material that is then completed with a variety of finishes. The combination of the two will be one of the main factors that will determine not just the look but also the cost of your unit.

Wardrobe Base Materials

• Plywood

Manufactured from layers of wood veneers that are glued together, plywood is best used for wardrobes in low moisture areas. This material is often finished with laminate or veneer.

• Particle Board

Particle board is an affordable and environmentally friendly material made from wood residue that is flattened into smooth sheets. The even surface is great for painting on and for creating decorative cuts and corners.

• Medium Density fiberboard (MDF)

Similarly, MDF is also a green material as it is made from breaking down wood residuals into wood fibres. The result is a wood that is denser and less durable than particle board. It will not perform well as a frame for wardrobes near bathrooms as it retains moisture.

• Wood Plastic Composites

A low-maintenance and water-resistant material, WPC is made from wood fibre that is combined with thermoplastics. It’s an eco-friendly material that is susceptible to slow decomposition.

• Solid Wood

Solid wood is the ideal choice if you are looking for durability and charm. Wood will complement any theme, however, it will require regular polishing and is a more expensive material than the others.

Wardrobe Finishing Materials

• Decorative Veneers

If you love the warm look of natural wood but cannot afford solid wood, then veneers will be the right finish for you. Veneers are made from ultra-thin sheets of wood that are then glued to either an MDF or particle board base.

• Decorative Laminates

Super easy to maintain. laminates are water resistant, durable and cost-effective. Best of all, they are available in several colours and designs and can be high-gloss or matt.

• Mirror

Mirror wardrobes are the perfect way to enlarge a small room. Not only do they expand a room, they also brighten it up by reflecting light. Be prepared to wipe down fingerprints regularly if you choose this finish.

• Metal and Leather

Uncommon yet very stylish, leather and metal deliver on aesthetics and can instantly make any room look bolder and more expensive. Our premium line of wardrobes offers an option of eco-friendly leather for an elegant look.

We are fanatical about luxury fitted wardrobe design.

Take a look at our range of contemporary wardrobes.

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Pros and Cons of Different Wardrobe Materials

• Veneer

Pros: Has the look and feel of real wood, at a fraction of the cost.

Cons: Needs to be re-polished from time to time to keep the surface looking good.

• Solid Wood Wardrobes

Pros: Delivers durability, warmth, elegance and style.

Cons: Not eco-friendly, can be pricey.

• Mirrored Shutters Wardrobe

Pros: Contemporary style that combines aesthetics with functionality.

Cons: Susceptible to breakage, high maintenance.

• Laminate Wardrobe

Pros: Durable, easily maintained, cost-effective and available in a wide variety of options easy to clean.

Cons: Easily scratched or chipped; the more cost-effective varieties look cheap.

• Transparent Glass or Acrylic

Pros: Unique and elegant.

Cons: Lack of privacy.

• Frosted or PU-finished Glass

Pros: Modern, contemporary styling.

Cons: Glass is breakable (if it is of poor quality).

• Metal and Leather

Pros: Very elegant and stylish.

Cons: Might not suit every home style, can be pricey.

 

How to choose the best material for your needs?

Choosing the material for your built-in wardrobe requires understanding your needs and matching these to your budget, style and lifestyle.

Regarding budget, the less common a material is, the more it is likely to cost. For example, the lowest-priced unit in our entry-level range is a melamine-finished wardrobe. On the other end, our mid to premium range options can be finished off in leather, frosted glass or an eco-suede material.

The size of your room will also matter. Solid wood would look bulky in a small room, whilst a mirror finish will open it up and make it feel bigger.

Furthermore, you will need to consider your lifestyle and how much cleaning you are able to get done. Wardrobes in high-traffic areas where they are exposed to constant contact will be better suited to low-maintenance materials. Glass and veneer will require a constant wiping down of fingerprints.

Lastly, factor in the location of your wardrobe. It makes sense to use transparent glass doors in your bedroom, but for wardrobes in other areas, it may be better to conceal their contents.

 

Examples of wardrobes made from different materials

We invite you to view our website and see our extensive wardrobe range or visit our showroom to open up your imagination to the various styles and designs that are possible for your wardrobe.

To ensure the highest quality, all our bespoke luxury wardrobes share the same frame that is manufactured from materials of the very highest standard. While the basic structure is always the same, we offer a range of customisable options that will determine both the price and overall aesthetic of your product.

You are spoilt for choice with our collection of over 200 lacquers, leathers, veneers and wood finishes. Door handles for your built-in wardrobe also come in a variety of options. Below are a few of the different wardrobes we offer.

Deciding which material is best for you

Decision-making is easier when you have armed yourself with sufficient information. As an initial step, identify a few local companies whose wardrobe showrooms you can visit. You'll want to see the work they produce and get answers to all your questions,

These are:

• How are your fitted wardrobes made, paying attention to the sourcing of materials?
• What is the lead time for the different options?
• What is the installation process?
• Is there a warranty or guarantee?
• Ask about sustainability.

Furthermore, take time to engage with the different materials to get a sense of their texture and adaptability to your lifestyle.

Finally, you want to leave each company with quotes for your short-listed designs. ask for quotes that detail the costs involved in the full process from design to installation. At FCI, we have a built-in wardrobe department with wardrobe design experts who will guide you through the process. 

Summing Up

The best material to build a wardrobe is the one that will tick all your boxes in terms of appearance, price, maintenance and durability.

These materials have unlimited combinations when it comes to styles and colours, so don’t be afraid to let your imagination run wild.

With the largest wardrobe showroom in London and cutting-edge technology, we are confident that we will perfectly deliver the wardrobe of your dreams! Get in touch with us today and we'll chat about your wardrobe wishlist and preferences.