How much is the cost of fitted wardrobes in the UK?

A well-designed fitted wardrobe does more than store clothes. It also helps keep your room organised, creating a peaceful and clutter-free haven. But if you’ve been considering custom storage solutions, you first need to understand how much built-in wardrobes cost to get started. 

Fluctuating material costs and inflation have caused some shifts in pricing, but the average cost of fitted wardrobes in the UK is between £530 to over £1,500 per linear metre. This guide will break down the key pricing factors, from materials and finishes to installation costs, to help you make the right investment for your home.

Why you should opt for a fitted wardrobe

Space-saving built-in wardrobe. (Source: iStock)

If you’re renovating, dealing with limited space, or tired of pre-made storage that doesn’t meet your needs, built-in wardrobes or custom joinery are the ideal solutions. They’re especially useful for homes with unique room shapes, like sloped ceilings, where traditional furniture may not fit. Here are other compelling reasons why they’re worth the investment:

Maximises available space

Built-in wardrobes are designed to fit any room layout, including awkward corners or sloped ceilings. They utilise every inch of vertical space, from floor to ceiling, so they provide more storage compared to free-standing options. Features like sliding doors are also particularly helpful in compact rooms, as they save space without compromising accessibility.

Customisable for personalised storage

Whether you need more hanging space for suits and dresses or specialised compartments for shoes and jewellery, built-in wardrobes can be tailored to your needs. High-end features such as integrated lighting, mirrors, and pull-out racks add convenience while complementing your interior style. 

Adds value to your property

Built-in wardrobes are a premium home feature that potential buyers find appealing. Their durability and practicality can enhance your property’s market value, making adding them a smart move in the long run.

What are the average costs of a fitted wardrobe in the UK?

*Inclusive of labour and parts

The average cost of built-in wardrobes in the UK differs depending on the materials used, features incorporated, and design inspiration. However, prices typically range from £530 to over £1,500 per linear metre, inclusive of labour and materials. 

Basic designs are affordable, while premium options with custom finishes and advanced storage features may incur higher prices. 

What are the types of built-in wardrobes and their costs?

Built-in wardrobes come in various styles to suit different needs, spaces, and aesthetics. Whether you’re after the sleek functionality of sliding doors, the classic appeal of hinged designs, or the spacious luxury of a walk-in wardrobe, each type offers distinct features and price points. Here’s a quick comparison of fitted wardrobe prices for popular styles:

Sliding wardrobes

Sliding door built-in wardrobe. (Source: iStock)

Sliding door wardrobes are perfect for smaller rooms, where every centimetre of space is important. The doors slide horizontally, and many designs include mirrored panels to reflect light and make the room feel spacious. Costs range from £2,550 to £4,600+, with premium options offering custom shelving, glass panels, and integrated lighting.

Hinged wardrobes

Hinged door built-in wardrobe. (Source: iStock)

Hinged wardrobes have a timeless, traditional appeal and offer full access to wardrobe interiors. Their outward-swinging doors make them suitable for larger rooms with ample door clearance. Prices start at £1,500 for basic designs and can go up to £4,000+ for options with durable materials and custom finishes.

Walk-in wardrobes

Spacious walk-in wardrobe. (Source: iStock)

Walk-in wardrobes are luxurious spaces designed for maximum organisation and storage. They provide dedicated areas for hanging, shelving, and even seating, so they offer a boutique-like experience at home. Walk-in wardrobe costs start at £5,500 for simple designs and can exceed £15,000+ for bespoke joinery with integrated lighting and bespoke materials.

Modular systems

Modular built-in wardrobes. (Source: iStock)

Modular wardrobes are versatile systems that can be tailored to suit specific storage needs. They’re ready-to-assemble, so you can customise them for hanging, shelving and drawers—how they’ll best suit your lifestyle. Costs range from £500 for standard designs to £3,500+ for advanced setups with premium finishes.

Bespoke wardrobes

Bespoke wardrobes are tailor-made to maximise awkward spaces. They’re a smart choice for unconventional room designs or areas with alcoves. Bespoke built-in wardrobes cost anywhere from £3,400 to £10,000+.

What factors affect the costs of built-in wardrobes?

Budgeting for built-in wardrobes. (Source: iStock)

If you’re trying to figure out how much a built-in wardrobe costs, it helps to break down the factors that influence the price. Things like the materials you choose, the size, and any special features can all make a big difference. Even installation costs and your room’s layout can play a role.

In the sections below, we’ll look at these factors in detail so you can understand what affects the price and make choices that work for your budget.

Wardrobe size 

Unsurprisingly, larger wardrobes are more expensive, requiring more materials, labour, time to build, and space for storage features. A small wardrobe can only have basic shelving, while a bigger one can have multiple compartments or extra hanging space to accommodate more clothing. 

The average cost of one built in double wardrobe is between £1,100 and £2,000, while larger walk-in wardrobes can cost £5,500 to £15,000+ due to their size and capacity to hold extensive storage options.

If you’re looking for a middle ground, medium 3-door wardrobes, priced at £2,500 to £3,700, provide a practical balance of size and cost.

Type of materials used

The materials you choose for your wardrobe also play a big role in determining how much fitted wardrobes are. Basic materials like MDF (medium-density fibreboard) are budget-friendly, with prices ranging from £530 to £770 per linear metre. On the other hand, premium options like solid wood increase costs significantly, generally costing £1,200 and up.

The carcass and shelves also impact pricing. Melamine and particleboard are cost-effective and durable, but solid wood and plywood are pricier and offer a more luxurious finish. Adding custom shelving or organisers increases costs further due to the extra labour and materials involved.

Soft-close hinges, pull-out racks, and handles add more functionality but also increase costs. In essence, for a fully custom wardrobe with premium materials and hardware, expect costs to lean towards the higher end of the price range.

Customisation options and design features

Customisation is where wardrobes go from practical to truly tailored, but these extras can significantly raise your total bill. Bespoke cabinetry ensures a perfect fit for your space, with prices ranging from £3,400 to £10,000+. Adding elements like custom shelving,

drawers (£150 to £300 each), or pull-outs (£250 to £500) increases both functionality and the final price.

Finishing options also play a key role. On average, it can set you back £150 to £450 per square metre, but wood veneer or high-gloss surfaces may be pricier. Mirrors, whether standard or frosted, cost between £450 and £750 per panel.

Integrated lighting improves aesthetics and usability but requires specialised installation, so they can cost you £160 to £400 per metre. Though optional, these features make a big difference in your daily wardrobe use.

Customisation costs for built-in cabinetry vary by room. For example, bathroom cabinets often need waterproof finishes, while features like pull-out racks or specialised storage for cleaning supplies impact kitchen installation prices. When it comes to the bedroom, they often require custom shelving, which drives up the cost of fitted bedroom wardrobes.  

Labour and location

The cost of labour for fitted wardrobes varies significantly across the UK. In cities like London, labour rates are higher, ranging from £300 to £500 per day, due to strong demand for bespoke designs and premium services. Meanwhile, cities like Glasgow and Newcastle offer more affordable rates, starting as low as £200 per day, though material availability may impact the total.

Material availability also affects costs. In cities like Manchester and Birmingham, access to mid-range materials keeps labour costs moderate, ranging from £220 to £400 per day. On the other hand, regions with fewer local suppliers, such as Cardiff, may experience slightly higher costs for materials and installation.

Where you live not only impacts labour costs but also how much cabinet makers may charge for sourcing and installing your wardrobe. Consider local rates and material availability to plan your budget more effectively.

Installation service

Installing built-in wardrobes. (Source: iStock)

The cost for built-in wardrobes depends on whether you choose carpentry services or opt for a DIY wardrobe setup. 

Professional installation ensures a precise and polished finish, especially for complex designs. Labour costs range from £200 to £500 per day, with total installation time typically lasting 1-2 days.

DIY installation is a more budget-friendly option for simpler wardrobes, such as flat-pack designs. However, errors in measurements or assembly can lead to improper fitting, making DIY a riskier choice for intricate designs.

Hiring carpenters and joiners is ideal for wardrobes with custom cabinetry or added features like lighting. Skilled carpenters bill more, but they save time and reduce errors or the need for future wardrobe repair.

What are some ways to save on built-in wardrobes?

Saving on the cost of built-in wardrobes doesn’t mean settling for less—it’s about being strategic. By making smart decisions and planning ahead, you can achieve the perfect wardrobe while staying within budget. Here are practical tips to help you save:

• Set a budget and stick to it. Decide what you can afford and prioritise essentials. It’s also wise to reserve 10% for unexpected expenses.

• Wait for sales and promotions. Local suppliers often run holiday or end-of-financial-year promotions on custom features or finishes.

• Keep the design simple. Focus on essentials like shelving and hanging space. Avoid elaborate layouts and stick to standard shapes with sliding or hinged doors. 

• Choose alternative materials. Opt for budget-friendly options like melamine instead of solid wood or glass. Use premium finishes only for visible areas.

• Opt for modular or pre-assembled wardrobes. These designs are affordable and easy to install. Flat-pack options, for example, can be customised further.

• Compare quotes from multiple installers. Get at least three quotes from service providers and make sure they’re itemised so you can identify areas to cut costs.

• Repurpose or refresh existing wardrobes. Update old wardrobes by repainting, refinishing, or replacing hardware. 

• Source locally. Local suppliers often have lower shipping fees and competitive rates. Consider pre-loved or second-hand wardrobes for even more savings.

Get your perfect built-in wardrobe done with Airtasker

A fitted wardrobe creates an organised and calming space. But you’ll only get sleek sliding doors and functional custom shelving when you enlist the help of the right professionals. Airtasker makes this part easy.

Just post a task to connect with built-in wardrobe experts and bring your cabinet ideas to life. No more chasing quotes or worrying about quality.