Fitted Vs Built In Wardrobes: Difference and Which to Go For

There is only a limited amount of space available in any home, may it be a home, apartment, or villa. This presents a significant challenge in finding the right storage solution that sits well with the interiors without standing out or taking up excess space. In the UK thousands of homes install customized furniture options every year. Installing adequate storage solutions like fitted or built-in Wardrobes in London is a practical way to add more value to one’s home. However, the dilemma lies in which type of wardrobe is best. Both offer their own unique perspective in providing the same solution. We will discuss this in detail in this blog to help you ascertain the ideal wardrobe setup for your home!    

  

What is a Built-in Wardrobe?

The answer to this question really lies in the name itself. Whenever someone visualizes the word “built-in” the image that comes to mind is a wardrobe that is constructed as a part of the room it is in. They are usually constructed when the home was built or has recently undergone renovations. These wardrobes are made-to-measure so that they can be seamlessly integrated into the space.

 

Such wardrobes can be built into an already existing wall cavity, situated between two opposing walls, They can also be fitted into alcoves or on the side of chimney breasts. Many homeowners desire a renovated space above the house and have it converted into an extra bedroom, den, or gaming room. A loft conversion wardrobe is also quite popular for such spaces.      

 

Who Fits a Fitted Wardrobe?

It is often considered the British way to approach furniture installations with the DIY approach. This makes fitted wardrobes ideal for such customers for they can install themselves with a handful of DIY knowledge. Fitted wardrobes are usually pre-constructed and are made to measure the space available for installation. The average homeowner can easily install their new fitted wardrobe with a few basic tools and DIY knowledge.

 

Homeowners have the option to do the fitting themselves or call on the appropriate tradesperson to do the job more tenaciously. This can save the individual a small fortune spent on buying the appropriate tools for the job.

 

Difference between Fitted and Built-in Wardrobes:-

It is not uncommon for customers to question the practical difference between fitted and built-in wardrobes. Realistically, there is no difference. These two names are used interchangeably and are aimed to imply that the wardrobe is an integrated design that conserves space.

 

Homeowners are often under the impression that constructing a built-in wardrobe in their space is a significant risk. What if the wardrobe doesn’t fit, or is impractical, or doesn’t compliment the interiors? Adding fitted wardrobes to your home actually increases its value. It helps eliminate issues related to limited space making the layout of your room feel more spacious.

The concept of space conservation applies to both the interiors and exteriors of the built-in wardrobe design. They are constructed to conserve both interior and exterior space. Some even feature sliding doors to make their functionality more practical.

 

The cost of a bespoke fitted wardrobe is determined by the following factors:

• The Size
• Design Inclusions, e.g. drawers and rails.
• Doors, Quantity, and Style.
• Door Handles.
• The material used in its Construction, e.g. hardwood, oak, metal, and plastic.
• Practical Interior Features like Lighting.
• Bespoke Features like a Secured Safe or Locked Drawer.

Wardrobes with door panels or sliding doors may also be priced differently.

 

Benefits of Choosing Fitted Wardrobes

Fitted wardrobe solutions offer the maximum space for storing clothes, shoes, and accessories together without taking up too much floor space. As they are made according to specific measurements, they can be optimized to fit the exact millimeter of the space the homeowner chose.

 

As fitted wardrobes are custom built people can decide on what combination shelves, hanging rails, and accessory storage options. Those who share their bedroom with a partner or a roommate can also have their fitted wardrobe optimized to accommodate both their belongings without taking up too much room.

 

Benefits of Built in Wardrobes

 

Many built-in wardrobes lack a back panel which maximizes the space inside enabling the owner to store large boxes and containers. This is not the case with free-standing wardrobes which feature a gap between the back of the cabinet and the wall. This costs the owner several inches of space which could have been potentially used as more storage.

 

Built-in wardrobes on the other hand are designed specifically for the space where they are meant to be installed. Homes with corners and areas that are a bit challenging to fit can be renovated with a bespoke built-in wardrobe which can be designed specifically to take up the space without compromising on storage.

 

Yet another benefit of built-in wardrobes is that they can be customized to match the look and feel desired by the owner. They get to choose the material, color, and finish to match the existing décor of the room.

 

Choosing the Right Wardrobe 

Once a homeowner has familiarized themselves with the different types of fitted wardrobes out there, consider these three aspects when buying yours:

• Functionality: First identify the amount of space that is required. Do you prefer hanging spaces for your clothes or just have them folded neatly on the shelves? Do you need to store accessories like scarves and jewelry for which you require custom-built storage units? Finding out how the wardrobe will be used will help you understand the specifications you need.
• Size: Next, it is important to determine the size of the wardrobe. This is dependent on factors like the type of storage arrangements you need and the amount of space available in the room. It is best to have professionals from Fitted Furniture and Joinery Ltd visit your home and accurately measure the space available. Experts recommend extending the wardrobe as high as possible towards the ceiling to eliminate spaces where dust can accumulate.    
• Style: Most modern built-in wardrobes are made to sit cozily between two walls. However, style plays an important role in enhancing the overall look and feel of the bedroom. Since the wardrobe is perhaps the largest object in any room besides the bed it serves as a centerpiece which needs to have a style complimentary to the space. There are multiple options one can choose from when it comes to styling wardrobes, such as sliding and hinged doors, high-gloss or matte wood, and also custom-designed elements like a TV cabinet.

 

Conclusion 

There are dozens of ways built-in wardrobes and fitted cupboards in London can be modified to suit the preferences and functional needs of customers. At Fitted Furniture and Joinery Ltd, we take on a holistic approach to bring our client’s dream wardrobe to life!