Built-In Wardrobes: Planning, Sizes, Materials and Planning Rates
Built-in wardrobes are made to fit a wall exactly, from floor to ceiling, which uses space better than any free-standing unit and gives a finished look. They cost more than ready-made options and cannot be moved, so planning matters. This guide covers measuring, depth and sizes, materials, doors, interiors and the indicative planning rates by quality. It also shows how to avoid the common mistakes. For other types, see wardrobes.
Why built-in
A built-in wardrobe fills awkward spaces, runs to the ceiling so dust has nowhere to settle and can be designed around your clothes. It adds to the finished look of the room and uses every inch of the wall.
Measure and plan
Measure the width and height at several points because walls are rarely square, and note the ceiling, sockets, switches and windows. Plan fillers and scribing at the sides.
| Item | Common guide |
|---|---|
| Wardrobe depth | About 22 to 24 in for hanging |
| Typical face area | About 42 sq ft for a standard wardrobe |
| Hanging rail height | About 5 to 6 ft for long items |
| Door width per panel | About 1.5 to 3 ft |
Planning rates by quality
Indicative installed planning rates in Lahore, per sq ft of wardrobe face.
| Quality | Rate per sq ft of face | What it usually means |
|---|---|---|
| Essential | PKR 800 - 1,200 | Standard board, basic hardware |
| Standard | PKR 1,150 - 1,600 | Laminated board, soft-close hinges |
| Premium | PKR 1,800 - 2,800 | Better board, imported hardware |
| Luxury | PKR 2,800 - 4,200 | Custom design and fittings |
Indicative installed planning rates per sq ft of wardrobe face. Actual quotes depend on board, hardware and design.
Materials and doors
Laminated MDF and HDHMR are common, with plywood for premium work. Doors can be hinged, sliding or lift-up, and finishes range from laminate to acrylic and veneer. See sliding wardrobes for track doors.
Inside a built-in wardrobe
Plan rails at two heights, shelves, drawers and a shoe space, with internal lighting. See wardrobe accessories and fittings for the hardware.
Mistakes to avoid
- Measuring only once, with out-of-square walls.
- Forgetting sockets and switches behind the units.
- Cheap hinges and runners, which fail first.
- Leaving a gap at the top, where dust gathers.
How we quote
Send the room size, a sketch or photo and the finish you like. We confirm what we can supply and reply with a written rate that lists every item. Before you order, confirm the exact size or model, ask for the specification and warranty in writing, and compare totals including fitting and delivery rather than the item price alone. To get a close first estimate, clear the area, mark sockets, switches and pipe positions, note the ceiling height and photograph the space from two corners.
| Item | Unit | Scope | Supply | Rate |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Built-in wardrobes, by quality and size | Per sq ft of face | Material and hardware, fitting quoted separately | Supply across Pakistan | PKR 1,150 – 1,600 per sq ft of front (standard laminated); custom MDF PKR 2,300 – 3,200 |
| Fittings and installation | As needed | Material and hardware, fitting quoted separately | Supply across Pakistan | PKR 100 – 250 per sq ft of front |
Frequently Asked Questions
A built-in wardrobe is made to fit a wall or recess exactly, usually floor to ceiling, so it uses every inch of space and looks finished. It costs more than ready-made options and cannot be moved, so it suits homes you own or will stay in for years.
Indicative installed planning rates in Lahore are about PKR 800 to 1,200 per sq ft of face for essential quality, PKR 1,150 to 1,600 for standard, PKR 1,800 to 2,800 for premium and PKR 2,800 to 4,200 for luxury. A 42 sq ft wardrobe at standard quality is roughly PKR 48,000 to 67,000.
About 22 to 24 in is common for hanging clothes, which lets hangers sit comfortably. Shallower depths suit shelves and drawers only. Check that doors can open and that the room still has enough walking space. Measure carefully and confirm sizes with the supplier before ordering.
Yes, floor-to-ceiling units use space best and avoid dust on top. Plan the top shelves for rarely used items and keep a step stool nearby. Fit the top neatly to the ceiling with a scribed filler or cornice.
Measure at several points, plan sockets and switches, choose quality hinges and runners, plan the interior on paper and agree the drawings before work starts. Avoid late changes, which add labour and cost. If in doubt, send a photo and the measurements and we will advise.
Send the room size, the wall you plan to use and a photo on WhatsApp. We confirm what we can supply and reply with a written rate that lists the boards, doors, hardware and fittings, so you can compare quotes from different suppliers on the same scope.
Planning a built-in wardrobe?
Send the room size and a photo. We reply with a written rate.