If you live in a period home, a top-floor flat, or a property with sloping eaves, you know the frustration of standard furniture. Ready-made wardrobes leave wasted space, gather dust, and simply don’t look right. This is where a talented carpenter or joiner comes in, offering bespoke fitted wardrobes homeowners rely on to reclaim every inch of space.
This guide will walk you through the process, the costs involved, and how to get the most out of your custom storage project.
Why choose custom built storage?
Choosing custom built storage over off-the-shelf units isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s about smart design and efficiency.
- Utilise awkward angles: A custom wardrobe is the only solution for challenging areas like under-stairs alcoves or rooms with sloped ceilings and chimney breasts.
- Maximise storage volume: Fitted units extend from floor to ceiling and wall to wall, offering significantly more storage capacity than freestanding furniture.
- Add home value: High-quality, permanent fixtures like built-in wardrobes for eaves are a major selling point and can increase the value of your property.
- Achieve a seamless look: When designed correctly, they blend perfectly with your existing decor, making the room feel larger and less cluttered.
The cost of a custom wardrobe
The cost of your project will vary widely based on size, materials, and complexity. The number one factor impacting the final price is the internal finish and the door style you choose.
| Factor | Description | Cost Impact |
| Material | MDF, plywood, or solid wood (e.g., oak). | MDF is the most budget-friendly; solid wood is the highest. |
| Interior finish | Simple shelving vs. elaborate drawers, tie racks, and internal lighting. | More bespoke interior fittings will significantly increase the labour and material cost. |
| Door type | Sliding doors (require complex runner systems) vs. standard hinged doors. | Hinged shaker or panel doors are often cheaper than full-wall mirror or sliding systems. |
| Complexity | Simple straight run vs. building a wardrobe for sloped ceilings or complicated recesses. | Awkward spaces require much more precise cutting and custom fabrication time. |
Always get at least three quotes from qualified carpenters to compare price and service.
Design solutions for challenging spaces
A skilled carpenter can turn a storage nightmare into a design feature.
1. Wardrobes for sloped ceilings (Loft rooms)
The key here is split-level design. The carpenter will build the main section up to the full height of the room’s apex, and then build a lower, shallower unit into the area under the slope or the eaves.
- Lower eaves area: Perfect for shoe racks, pull-out drawers, or long-term storage access doors.
- Full-height section: Dedicated hanging space for dresses, suits, and coats.
2. Alcove and chimney breast storage
The classic alcove setup involves a lower cupboard (for bulky items) and matching open shelving above. A bespoke design will ensure that the cupboard doors are perfectly flush with the chimney breast, creating a beautiful, seamless look.
3. Corner and ‘L’ shaped units
Don’t let a corner become dead space. Custom units can incorporate specific corner solutions such as rotating shelves or deep shelving to utilise the maximum possible depth.
The fitted wardrobe process: What to expect
Hiring a professional will ensure a smooth process from concept to final finish.
Step 1: Consultation and design
The carpenter will visit your home to take precise measurements of the area, paying extra attention to complex angles for your wardrobe. They will discuss:
- Your needs: How much hanging space versus shelving and drawers?
- Aesthetics: Door style (Shaker, modern slab, mirrored), colour, and hardware.
- Budget: Adjusting materials and internal fittings to meet your price range.
Step 2: Fabrication
Once the design is approved, the carpenter (or their joinery workshop) will cut and build the majority of the carcass and doors off-site. This stage can take several weeks, depending on the complexity.
Step 3: Installation
The installation team will bring the components to your home and assemble them. For bespoke fitted wardrobe standards, the final phase involves meticulous scribing and trimming to ensure the units fit perfectly flush against uneven walls, floors, and ceilings.
Questions to ask your carpenter or joiner
To ensure you hire the right professional for your custom built storage, ask the following questions:
- Have you completed similar projects, especially ones involving sloped ceilings or awkward spaces? (Ask to see a portfolio.)
- What material do you recommend for the carcass and the doors, and why?
- Is the quoted price inclusive of painting/finishing, or is that a separate service?
- How long will the on-site installation take, and what level of disruption should I expect?
- What guarantees or warranties do you offer on your workmanship?
By investing in high-quality, bespoke fitted wardrobes, you are not just buying storage—you are buying back space, improving organisation, and adding a lasting piece of furniture to your home.
With Rated People, you have the power to get it done. Find a trusted, local tradesperson today.
