Many homeowners are eager to increase their storage but are unsure of the costs involved – just how much does it cost to install a built-in wardrobe?

The short answer is, it depends on what you choose. Built-in wardrobes are customised to the size, material and specifications that you need, so there won't be a one size fits all price tag. The good thing is that this gives you control, you decide how much you want to spend and on which features.

1. Types of built in wardrobes

The flexibility of built-in wardrobes means that there are several types to choose from. If you are looking for inspiration, the following are the most common options.

Walk-in built-in wardrobes

This a great option if you have a spare room. Our team of experts can transform an entire room into a fabulous walk-in closet complete with shelves, drawers and hanging rods. For ultimate luxury, we will add mirrors, lighting and a laundry station to create a complete dressing room.

Around the bed built-in wardrobes

When floor space is limited, this type of wardrobe is an ideal option. In this design, hanging rails are fitted on either ends of the bed and cupboards for folded garments are fitted over the headboard.

Alcove built-in wardrobes

When your bedroom has a peculiar shape with an alcove, we recommend this wardrobe type. Our wardrobes can be customised to fit into any size gap, so even if you want to take advantage of the alcoves on either side of your fireplace, we will fit storage there easily.

Wall-to-wall fitted wardrobes

The most common type, these built-in wardrobes are fitted wall-to-wall and floor to ceiling. You just need to decide where you want them placed and how deep they should be.

We are fanatical about luxury fitted wardrobe design.

Take a look at our range of contemporary wardrobes.

View Sliding Door Wardrobes

View Built-In Wardrobes

View Large Wardrobes

View Corner Wardrobes

View Floor-to-Ceiling

View Walk-In Wardrobes

2. Cost of materials and installation

At FCI, we have categorised our built-in wardrobes into three types: entry level, mid-range, and premium.

Our least expensive design is a standard-sized, melamine finished, 2 door hinged wardrobe that gives you a good quality solution in a simple yet classy design.

At this price point we offer the following personalisation options:

• 6 colour finishes
• 4 eco-wood finishes
• 2 textured finishes
• 2 standard glass
• 1 etched glass
• 2 lacquered glass
• 2 mirror
• 5 metal finishes

In addition to the above options, our mid-range to premium wardrobes offer extras such as metal frames that are customisable in a range of metal lacquers. Maybe you have always dreamed of a wardrobe made entirely of leather? We will make your dream come true through our eco-leather range that comes in a variety of 8 colours! Other finishes on offer are a luxurious suede and a tranquil frosted glass.

3. DIY or professional installation

If you intend on installing your wardrobe as a DIY project, a flat pack would be best. Granted you have the right tools and decent woodwork knowledge, the job should not be too difficult. However, going the flat pack route limits your style options and you’ll have little to no room for customisation.

On the other hand, working with professionals gives you the freedom to have a bespoke product, made to your specifications. This is especially important if you want to introduce unique materials.

We’ve been designing and installing tailor-made luxury wardrobes for more than 35 years and we are bonafide experts. Through the use of our cutting-edge technology, we guarantee a perfect result regardless of the complexity of the design.

4. Factors that affect the price

Because we place a high importance on quality, all our wardrobe frames are made from the same high-quality material regardless of the price point.

However, for the rest of the wardrobe, we offer variations in material, colour, and finishes and these increase on a sliding scale depending on the combination you choose.

Adding sliding doors, for example, will add a little to the base price, as will adding extra internal components. Specialised items such as jewellery trays, pull down hanging rails and tie racks, and trouser rods, will also cost extra.

Wardrobe size will be one of the most significant factors in your costing. But, that’s not to say that you can’t design a fairly large wardrobe at a reasonable price.

Our wardrobe cost calculator will give you a good idea of what you can expect to pay, but there’s no substitute for speaking to a member of our design team.

5. Pros and cons of a built in wardrobe

Before deciding on your built-in wardrobe, we suggest weighing the pros and cons.

On the plus side, fitted wardrobes add a personal touch to your bedroom decor. You can select a finish to compliment your home’s aesthetic and suit your individual style.

Secondly, built-ins come at a better quality than flat pack versions. This way they are an investment that will last long without constant costly upgrades.

Lastly, bespoke, fitted wardrobes can add value to your property as potential buyers see this as a luxury item.

The flip side is the matter of cost. Anything made to measure will generally cost more than mass produced items. That being said, you can tailor the cost to your budget by choosing material you can afford.

No doubt, the period that you have to wait for a bespoke wardrobe is longer than a readily available freestanding piece. But we can argue that the wait is worth it. Once designed, our installation team usually takes 24 hours to complete a project.

Finally, being fitted furniture, you will not be able to take your wardrobes with you when you move. They will now be the joy of your new homeowners.

6. Tips for choosing the right built in wardrobe for your home

Your fitted wardrobe will become a permanent fixture in your home so it is important to plan for it.

To start off with, identify what the intended usage is for it. Do you need hanging space for clothes, shelves and racks, or drawers for small items?

You must then decide on functionality. Do the items you wish to store require deep shelves, long rods or hooks? This will help you select your storage system.

By all means do not have a large wardrobe installed for the sake of it. Have a look at your belongings, and pick a size that ensures each item is stored freely. Avoid having empty shelves as these may encourage you to add unnecessary items.

Other than that, you will need to decide on the style, materials and finish that compliment your home.

In Conclusion

Built-in wardrobes will cost as little or as much as you want them to. Decide on what your requirements and budget are, then use our cost calculator to build a wardrobe that is right for you. Do not hesitate to speak to our team for any help you may need designing your storage space.