Fitted or freestanding wardrobes: which suits your bedroom?

If you are short of storage in a bedroom, the first choice is between a wardrobe built into the room and one you buy and stand against the wall. Both have their place. Here is how they compare.

Using the space

A freestanding wardrobe comes in set sizes, so there is almost always a gap: at the sides, above the top and behind it, where the skirting board holds it off the wall. A fitted wardrobe runs wall to wall and up to the ceiling. In a typical bedroom that adds a surprising amount of storage from the same floor space, and there is no dusty space on top.

Awkward rooms

This is where fitted wardrobes earn their keep. Alcoves beside a chimney breast, a sloping ceiling in a loft conversion, the space under the eaves or a wall with a window in it are all hard to furnish with something from a shop. A fitted wardrobe is made for the shape it goes into.

Inside the wardrobe

With a fitted wardrobe you choose the layout: how much long hanging, how much double hanging, where the shelves go, and whether you want drawers or a shoe rack. A bought wardrobe gives you whatever the maker decided, which is often one rail and a shelf.

Cost

A flat-pack wardrobe is cheaper to buy, there is no getting around that. A fitted wardrobe is made and fitted for you, so it costs more, but you are paying for storage that fits the room and lasts. It is worth getting a price before you decide, rather than assuming.

Moving house

A freestanding wardrobe comes with you; a fitted one stays. If you are planning to move soon, that matters. If you are staying put, a fitted wardrobe becomes part of the house.

Which should you choose?

Freestanding makes sense for a rented room, a quick fix or a wardrobe you love and want to keep. Fitted makes sense if the room is an awkward shape, you want the most storage you can get from it, or you are staying for the long term.

If you are leaning towards fitted, have a look at our fitted wardrobes page, then book a free measure-up. We will look at the room with you and talk through the layout before we price it.