Average cost of fitted wardrobes

Summary: How much does a fitted wardrobe cost, average installation costs and average price for a fitted wardrobe.

Fitted wardrobes can make an amazing difference to a bedroom. Modern, clean lines will enhance the look of a room and create a surprisingly vast amount of storage as well as streamlining the whole appearance of the bedroom. In fact most house builders now put fitted wardrobes into bedrooms as standard practice. Many houses have alcoves into which a wardrobe can be fitted perfectly thereby squaring off an awkward shaped room.

Average Cost

Factors to consider

The price of fitted wardrobes will largely be determined by the size required and the materials from which they are made. There is no need to spend a fortune. A carpenter would be able to make a straightforward frame and add doors within a couple of days. Anything more complicated would take a little longer. There are various types of wood available and prices to suit all budgets. MDF or pine is usually the cheapest option with hardwoods being the most expensive.

Some people choose to make one whole wall into fitted wardrobes and if space permits this can look extremely attractive. A minimalist look can be obtained as so many bits and pieces can be hidden behind the wardrobe doors.

If you have other bedroom furniture such as chests of drawers or bedside cabinets, do you want the wardrobe to be in the same material and colour? Many people go for white, cream or a pale grey which fits in with any décor. You could consider painting the fitted wardrobe the same colour as your bedroom walls. This would create an illusion of space as the wardrobe would simply blend into the décor. You could decide to fit mirror doors to the front which creates an illusion of the bedroom being much larger than it really is. Mirrors also bring light into a dark room. You can buy kits for fitted wardrobes with mirror doors as one option. In fact kit wardrobes are a great way to do it yourself without the complication of sawing and cutting wood to size. Your local builders’ merchant may be able to provide details of these kits. If not, most home magazines will have advertisements for them so you can contact the company yourself. The internet is another option of course.

An important factor to consider is whether to install sliding or opening doors. In a small room, sliding doors are the answer as they take up no space at all. The only drawback is that you will not be able to view all the contents of the wardrobe at the same time. Bear in mind that small children are fascinated by doors that slide and it is important to make sure they do not constantly play with the doors which could come off the rails if treated roughly.

Some companies offer a free in-store planning service which can be of great benefit particularly if a room is an awkward shape. Through the use of computer aided design you will be able to see instantly what your room could look like. Do not be afraid to ask questions as these people are the experts and will be able to guide you through the process.

Costs to consider

Fitted wardrobes are something that many people look for when viewing a house to purchase. Many people do not even own free standing wardrobes as these can be bulky and ugly. If you are moving house it is unlikely that your wardrobes will fit exactly into your new home so fitted wardrobes are not only useful and functional but they can add value to a home.

Wardrobes made of wood can be painted or stained to the colour required and this might be something you could do yourself to cut down the cost. Think about what the interior is to be like as this too will have a bearing on cost. For example you might want several shelves for sweaters and a shelf at the bottom for shoes. Or do you just want a rail to hang clothes on which is a cheaper option?

If you are a competent DIY’er there is no need to feel daunted by the thought of building fitted wardrobes. Simple plans can be found on the internet and your local builders’ merchant will always be pleased to help and to give advice as to what materials you require. You will need to work out the cost of the wood and add on the cost of hinges, handles, rails and paint. When choosing paint you need to decide whether you want a gloss or matt finish as these finishes can create totally different looks.