To create the bedroom of your dreams, you need more than just wallpaper and a comfortable bed. The wardrobe is equally important, especially if you want to design a beautiful space that suits your lifestyle.
But which type of wardrobe is right for you? On this page, we’ve explained the pros and cons of freestanding and fitted wardrobes, helping you make a decision with confidence.
What’s the difference?
A freestanding wardrobe is a self-containing storage solution that isn't attached to the floor or wall. A fitted wardrobe is completely different – it’s made to measure and built into your room, using up every millimetre of space to maximise storage.
Chimney Breast and Alcoves Transformation
Benefits of fitted wardrobes
Fitted wardrobes maximise space and provide a stunning focal point. Here are the main benefits in more detail…
Maximise space
Unlike freestanding wardrobes, fitted wardrobes remove wasted space by using up every millimetre.
Hide awkward spaces
Fitted wardrobes can hide unattractive corners, sloped ceilings and awkward spaces, which can maximise space and increase your home’s resale value.
Easy to match your style
Fitted wardrobes are custom-made to your specific tastes, unlike freestanding wardrobes that come in standard shapes, sizes and designs.
Customised internal storage
You can incorporate as many hangers, drawers or shoe racks as you like, customising the internal storage to suit your lifestyle.
Makes your room feel bigger
Floor-to-ceiling wardrobes draw your eyes to the ceiling, making your rooms feel bigger. This can also add to your home’s resale value. In contrast, freestanding wardrobes draw your eyes just two-thirds of the way up the wall.
Sloping Ceilings Aren’t a Problem
Drawbacks of fitted wardrobes
While fitted wardrobes offer many benefits, there are some downsides to consider…
Immoveable
Due to the custom design, fitted wardrobes are permanent fixtures and can’t be taken with you if you move.
Higher cost
Bespoke products are always more expensive than box-standard alternatives. However, fitted wardrobes are long-term investments and can add value to your home.
Maximising space in Lofts and Sloping Ceilings
Benefits of freestanding wardrobes
Freestanding wardrobes are popular and widely available, offering a variety of benefits…
Portability
Unlike fitted wardrobes, freestanding wardrobes can be moved around easily – ideal if you regularly reshuffle furniture.
Easily resold or replaced
If you’re moving home or want extra cash, you can sell or replace freestanding wardrobes quite easily.
Cheaper
Freestanding wardrobes are standard products sold in bulk, making them cheaper than bespoke fitted wardrobes.
Same-day delivery
Given their standard designs, you can often receive freestanding wardrobes the same day as ordering.
High Ceilings offer Maximised Storage
Drawbacks of freestanding wardrobes
Despite their cost-effectiveness, freestanding wardrobes come with some downsides…
Limited sizes
Unlike fitted wardrobes, freestanding wardrobes come in set sizes or variations, which can limit your options when designing your bedroom. You also risk the wardrobe’s design clashing with your home’s unique style.
Wasted space
Due to their stand-alone design, freestanding wardrobes normally leave significant areas of space above the top. This can be frustrating if you’re already tight on storage.
Harder to organise
Freestanding wardrobes come with standard shelving and interior storage, which might not suit your specific lifestyle or clothing arrangements.
Can make rooms feel cluttered
Especially in smaller rooms, freestanding wardrobes can make the space feel less streamlined. This is normally because we use the wasted space on top as storage for ‘junk’.
Streamlined Rooms in Period Properties
Which one is right for me?
Freestanding wardrobes are suitable if you’re on a tight budget and don’t mind choosing from set sizes and designs. In contrast, fitted wardrobes are made-to-measure and make better use of awkward spaces – ideal if you want to maximise storage and create a stunning focal point, while adding value to your home.
