What Is a Freestanding Wardrobe?

A freestanding wardrobe is the traditional, movable unit you buy from a furniture store. It stands independently and isn’t attached to walls.

Pros:

1. Easy to move
2. Lower upfront cost
3. No installation required

Cons:

1. Wastes space above and around it
2. Doesn’t fit awkward room shapes
3. Limited internal storage options

In UK most of the homes — especially in London bedrooms where space is tight — freestanding wardrobes often leave unused gaps at the top, sides, and back. That’s space you’re paying rent or a mortgage for but not using.

What Is a Fitted Wardrobe?

A fitted wardrobe is built wall-to-wall, floor-to-ceiling, and designed specifically as per your needs and room’s dimensions.

At Metro Wardrobes, every design is made to fit your layout exactly — even if you have alcoves, sloped ceilings, or chimney breasts.

Pros:

1. Uses every inch of available space
2. Custom internal layout (shelves, drawers, rails)
3. Works in awkward or small rooms 
4. Clean, built-in modern look

Cons:

1. Higher initial investment
2. Not movable (but it adds property appeal)

 Which One Saves More Space?

Fitted wardrobes save significantly more space than freestanding wardrobes. Here’s why:

They Use Full Height

Freestanding wardrobes usually stop short of the ceiling, leaving dead space on top that collects dust.

Fitted wardrobes go all the way up, giving you extra storage for:
• Suitcases
• Seasonal clothes
• Bedding

In small bedrooms, this vertical storage makes a huge difference.

No Wasted Side Gaps

Freestanding wardrobes rarely fit wall-to-wall perfectly. Those small side gaps might look minor, but they can add up to 10–20 cm of wasted space.

Fitted wardrobes are built to the exact width of your wall, zero wasted space.

Designed for Your Storage Needs

Freestanding wardrobes come with fixed layouts. You adjust to them.

Fitted wardrobes are designed around your lifestyle:

• More hanging space if you wear suits or dresses
• Extra shelves if you fold clothes
• Built-in drawers for accessories

Better layout = more usable storage inside the same footprint.

Perfect for Awkward Rooms

Many London homes have:

• Sloped ceilings
• Alcoves
• Narrow layouts

Freestanding wardrobes can’t handle these well. Fitted wardrobes turn these “problem areas” into smart storage zones.

Real Example From Experience

In a recent London project, a client replaced two freestanding wardrobes with one wall-to-wall fitted wardrobe.

Result:

• Same wall space used
• Nearly 40% more internal storage
• Room felt bigger and less cluttered

That’s the power of tailored design.

What About Cost?

Yes, fitted wardrobes cost more upfront. But you’re paying for:

• More storage
• Better room layout
• Higher home value
• Long-term durability

Freestanding wardrobes often get replaced every few years. A well-built fitted wardrobe can last 15–20 years or more.

Final Verdict: Which Should You Choose?