Custom wardrobe cost in Melbourne varies significantly depending on your specific requirements and design choices. Whether you’re planning a compact two-bay wardrobe starting from $2,000 or considering a premium built-in solution exceeding $10,000, understanding the price factors is essential before making this investment.
From basic built-in wardrobes costing between $1,000-$5,000 to luxurious walk-in wardrobes that can reach $20,000-$30,000, the range reflects the quality of materials and craftsmanship involved. At Silk Touch Joinery in Camberwell, we’ve found that most mid-range custom wardrobes with quality features typically cost between $3,000-$5,000, using Australian-made materials that stand the test of time.
Throughout this guide, you’ll discover the exact factors that influence your built-in wardrobe costs, particularly in Melbourne, where unique challenges like uneven floors in heritage homes require specialist solutions. We’ll break down realistic price expectations for 2026, helping you plan your storage solution with confidence rather than confusion.
The Difference Between Flat-Pack and Bespoke Joinery
When comparing wardrobe options, the difference between flat-pack and bespoke joinery goes far beyond simple aesthetics. At Silk Touch Joinery in Camberwell, we’ve helped countless Melbourne homeowners understand why custom solutions often represent better long-term value despite the higher initial investment.
Standard sizes vs custom fit
Flat-pack wardrobes initially appear attractive due to their convenience – simply purchase and have them delivered. However, this convenience quickly diminishes once you begin using them and discover their inherent limitations [1]. The fundamental issue lies in their standardised dimensions, which rarely align with actual bedroom measurements [2].
Standard flat-pack wardrobes inevitably leave unused space above, beside, and behind the unit [1]. This wasted space can accumulate dust and create visual clutter [3]. Moreover, these gaps disrupt the flow of your room and reduce potential storage capacity – a significant drawback in Melbourne’s premium properties where space comes at a premium.
In contrast, bespoke joinery is meticulously tailored to your home’s unique style and space [4]. Custom wardrobes are designed to follow your room’s theme through carefully selected materials and finishes that complement your aesthetic [3]. This precision fitting ensures no wasted corners or awkward layouts common with off-the-shelf options [5].
For Melbourne’s heritage homes with unusual layouts, bespoke wardrobes offer exceptional value. They can stretch into sloped ceilings, fill chimney recesses, and utilise odd corners that standard wardrobes simply cannot accommodate [4].
Why Melbourne homes need scribed panels
One crucial element that separates quality joinery from basic installations is the use of scribed panels – a detail particularly important in Melbourne’s older properties. Scribing is essentially the process of ‘tracing’ the contours of walls, skirting boards or other uneven features onto timber panels [6].
The purpose of scribes is vital: they allow cabinets to fit perfectly against walls, even when those walls aren’t perfectly square [6]. This is especially relevant for Victorian terraces and heritage homes throughout Melbourne, where walls and floors have shifted over decades.
Without proper scribing, wardrobes won’t sit flush against walls, creating unsightly gaps and potential issues with door alignment. Professional scribing ensures doors and drawers open smoothly without obstruction, delivering that clean, seamless finish that distinguishes premium joinery [6].
At Silk Touch Joinery, we recommend scribing when walls are more than 3mm out of plumb [6]. This precision approach exemplifies the attention to detail that separates our Australian-made custom wardrobes from mass-produced alternatives.
Floor-to-ceiling and wall-to-wall benefits
The most significant advantage of bespoke wardrobes is their ability to maximise vertical space. Unlike standard wardrobes that leave gaps above them, floor-to-ceiling designs utilise every inch of height [7]. This optimisation offers several compelling benefits:
- Enhanced storage capacity – By using vertical space efficiently, you can potentially eliminate the need for additional furniture like dressers and chests of drawers [7]
- Seamless integration – Custom wardrobes create a built-in appearance that complements bedrooms of all sizes [7]
- Improved organisation – With tailored interiors featuring adjustable shelves, shoe racks, and specialised hanging sections, everything has its place [7]
- Sleeker aesthetics – The minimalist design of floor-to-ceiling wardrobes can make even small bedrooms appear larger by reducing visual clutter [7]
For Melbourne’s varied housing stock – from compact apartments to expansive family homes – wall-to-wall wardrobes transform entire walls into functional storage features [8]. This approach not only clears clutter but actually makes bedrooms feel larger and more organised [8].
Furthermore, custom joinery allows homeowners to incorporate modern innovations like movement-sensor lighting, humidity control systems, and specialised compartments for accessories [7]. These thoughtful details create a wardrobe that’s not just beautiful but perfectly aligned with how you live.
While the initial cost of custom-built-in wardrobes in Melbourne typically exceeds that of flat-pack alternatives, the value proposition becomes clear when considering longevity, perfect fit, and enhanced functionality. Homeowners in Toorak, Kew, and Brighton increasingly recognise that quality joinery represents an investment that pays dividends in daily convenience and potential property value enhancement [7].
Key Factors Influencing Wardrobe Costs
The quality of materials and design features in your wardrobe directly impacts both performance and price. At Silk Touch Joinery, we’ve observed that understanding these cost factors helps Melbourne homeowners make informed decisions about their storage investments.
Material choices: Melamine to Timber Veneer
The foundation of any wardrobe begins with material selection, which creates significant price variations. Basic materials like melamine are budget-friendly, ranging from $2,293-$2,981 per linear metre [4]. This synthetic resin-based compound offers impressive durability, easy maintenance, and comes in various prints and colours [5].
Mid-range options using MDF (Medium-Density Fibreboard) typically cost between $2,752-$3,516 per linear metre [4], offering a more substantial feel than basic melamine. For premium spaces in Toorak or Brighton, timber veneer provides authentic wood character with prices ranging from $3,822-$4,586 per linear metre [4].
As Melbourne’s premium joinery specialists, we recommend considering long-term value alongside initial price. Quality materials resist wear and maintain their appearance even after years of daily use.
Hardware quality: Why we use Blum
The difference between a frustrating wardrobe experience and a delightful one often comes down to hardware quality. At Silk Touch Joinery, we exclusively use Blum fittings for our Melbourne wardrobes because they represent the gold standard in cabinet hardware.
Blum components include soft-close mechanisms that prevent doors from slamming [9], smooth drawer runners that extend fully for complete access [2], and precision hinges that ensure perfect alignment [10]. Although premium hardware increases initial costs, it eliminates the frustration of sticky drawers or doors that don’t close properly.
A basic 4-door wardrobe with Blum soft-closing hinges can start from around $611 installed [11], representing excellent value given their 20+ year lifespan.
Internal layout: Drawers, rails, and accessories
The configuration of your wardrobe interior substantially affects both functionality and cost:
- Each additional drawer box increases the price but dramatically improves organisation
- Pull-out accessories (shoe racks, trouser rails, jewellery trays) add approximately 15-30% to base costs
- Specialised storage zones for specific items create personalised functionality
- Pull-out clothes rails improve visibility and access to garments at the back [2]
Since Melbourne homes often feature smaller bedrooms compared to newer suburbs, maximising internal storage efficiency becomes even more crucial for our clients.
Door types: Hinged vs sliding
Your door choice affects both aesthetics and practicality. Hinged doors provide full access to the wardrobe’s contents at once and work beautifully in traditional Melbourne homes with ample space [12]. Alternatively, sliding doors save valuable floor space in compact rooms and can accommodate larger mirrors [12].
Contrary to common perception, sliding door wardrobes often cost less than hinged equivalents, with basic sliding options starting from $2,446 [1]. Nevertheless, sliding mechanisms involve more complex components that may require maintenance over time.
Lighting and finish upgrades
Strategic lighting transforms an ordinary wardrobe into a luxurious experience. Basic LED lighting adds approximately $245-$305 to project costs [4], whilst motion-activated sensor lighting ranges from $382-$611 per metre [4].
At Silk Touch Joinery in Camberwell, we recommend LED strip lighting with door sensors for Melbourne’s premium homes—providing practical illumination whilst creating a sophisticated atmosphere. These thoughtful touches may increase initial investment but deliver daily satisfaction and potential value appreciation when selling your property.
Consequently, the difference between an entry-level and premium custom wardrobe ultimately reflects these collective choices in materials, hardware, layout, door design, and finishing touches.
Estimated Price Ranges (Supply & Install)
Pricing for custom wardrobes in Melbourne falls into three main categories based on complexity and features. At Silk Touch Joinery in Camberwell, we’ve compiled these ranges from our extensive project history throughout Melbourne’s eastern suburbs.
The Essentials: $2,500 – $5,000
The entry point for quality custom wardrobes typically starts around $2,500. Basic built-in wardrobes with hinged doors and simple interior configurations generally range between $2,293 and $3,822 [1]. These essential wardrobes primarily feature:
- Single hanging rails with basic shelving
- Standard melamine finishes in white or neutral tones
- Hinged doors with quality hardware
- Simple internal layout optimised for hanging clothes and folded items
For compact two-bay wardrobes with Australian-made materials, expect to invest approximately $3,000-$4,000 [13]. While these represent our most affordable options, they still maintain Silk Touch Joinery’s commitment to precision fitting—especially important in Melbourne’s heritage homes with uneven walls.
The Designer Range: $5,000 – $10,000+
Mid-range wardrobes offer substantially enhanced functionality and aesthetic appeal. These designer options typically cost between $5,351 and $7,644 for standard built-ins with mixed hanging/shelving configurations and superior finishes [14].
Designer range wardrobes feature soft-close drawer systems, customised internal layouts, and premium door options. Three-door wardrobes in this category generally start around $7,186 [1], whilst four-door configurations with extensive internal customisation can reach $10,091 [1].
During this stage of your wardrobe planning, booking a Free Design Consultation & 3D Measure with Silk Touch Joinery provides valuable insights into maximising your investment. Our designers can show you how thoughtful layout adjustments might enhance functionality without increasing costs.
The Luxury Walk-In: $15,000 – $40,000+
Walk-in wardrobes represent the pinnacle of storage solutions, offering boutique-like experiences in your Melbourne home. Basic walk-in wardrobe fitouts begin at approximately $7,644 and extend to $15,289 for modest room sizes [15].
Mid-sized walk-in configurations featuring extensive storage solutions and integrated lighting generally range from $15,289 to $27,521 [15]. For truly premium walk-in wardrobes with luxury finishes and comprehensive features, expect investments between $27,521 and $61,159 [15].
The most sophisticated walk-in wardrobes create dedicated dressing rooms with:
- L-shape or U-shape layouts maximising corner spaces
- Integrated island units or seating areas
- Premium timber veneer or high-gloss finishes
- Sensor-activated LED lighting systems
- Specialised storage for accessories and collections
According to industry data, the average pricing for high-end walk-in wardrobes in Australia typically starts at $30,579 [16], reflecting the sophisticated joinery and premium materials involved.
Throughout Toorak, Brighton and Kew, we’ve noted homeowners increasingly recognise that quality Australian-made wardrobes add substantial value to properties whilst providing daily convenience. Regardless of your budget, professional installation by qualified tradespeople ensures precision fitting and long-term satisfaction with your investment.
Why Installation Matters
The execution phase of your wardrobe project ultimately determines whether your investment delivers its full potential. At Silk Touch Joinery in Camberwell, we’ve seen how proper installation transforms even the finest materials into exceptional storage solutions that serve Melbourne homes for decades.
Qualified tradespeople vs handymen
The distinction between professional cabinet makers and general handymen becomes evident in the details of your finished wardrobe. Handymen typically charge between AUD 76.45 to AUD 229.35 per hour [6], offering a seemingly cost-effective solution. Subsequently, many homeowners are tempted by these lower rates.
Qualified tradespeople, indeed, come at a premium—but for good reason. Unlike general handymen who may lack specialised licences for certain projects [6], professional wardrobe installers bring:
- Technical expertise specifically for complex joinery
- Specialised tools designed for precision cabinet installation
- Comprehensive knowledge of materials and structural requirements
For large projects requiring multiple workers, such as complete bedroom storage solutions, licenced contractors ensure proper execution [6]. Properly vetting your installer’s qualifications prevents costly future repairs from improper installation [6].
White glove service: floor protection and cleanup
Premium installation services offer protection that extends beyond the wardrobe itself. White glove service—originating in Adelaide in 2014 and expanding to Melbourne [17]—transforms the installation experience.
This service includes floor protection during installation, preventing damage to your existing flooring. Additionally, comprehensive rubbish removal eliminates the hassle of disposing packaging materials [18]. Following installation, installers perform a thorough cleanup, leaving your bedroom ready to use immediately.
Quality installers surely understand that stress-free delivery means placing furniture exactly where you want it [19], handling all heavy lifting, and ensuring a positive customer experience from start to finish.
Precision fitting and long-term durability
Accurate measurements make wardrobe installation easier and quicker [20], primarily because professional installers can work with precision. This attention to detail specifically prevents damage to both the wardrobe and surrounding areas during the installation process.
Even the best-designed wardrobes rely on expert installation to function properly. Properly aligned components ensure doors and drawers operate smoothly without excessive gaps or misalignments [21]. This meticulous craftsmanship prevents alignments from shifting over time [22], protecting your investment.
For Melbourne’s heritage homes with uneven walls and floors, Silk Touch Joinery’s experienced installers use scribing techniques to create perfect fits despite structural irregularities. Professional installation accordingly ensures your wardrobe is secure, correctly fitted, and built to last—transforming premium materials into storage that maintains its beauty and functionality for decades [20].
Maximising Your Budget
Creating your dream wardrobe doesn’t necessarily mean emptying your savings account. Smart planning allows you to achieve quality storage solutions that align with your financial parameters. At Silk Touch Joinery in Camberwell, we’ve helped countless Melbourne homeowners make strategic decisions that maximise value without compromising on quality.
Choosing cost-effective materials offers one straightforward approach to budget management. Plain white melamine panels provide durability and versatility at a fraction of the cost of premium finishes [7]. These panels resist scratches, stains, and moisture—ensuring your wardrobe maintains its appearance for years without requiring frequent replacement or repairs [7].
Typically, the least expensive elements in any custom wardrobe are hanging sections [23]. By thoughtfully incorporating more hanging space versus drawers or specialised shelving, you can reduce overall costs without sacrificing functionality. For those planning walk-ins, remember that costs vary substantially based on size and complexity—ranging from $3,764 for compact solutions to $10,233 for comprehensive designs [13].
The modular approach presents another practical strategy. Starting with essential components like basic shelving, hanging rods, and minimal drawer units establishes a solid foundation [7]. This approach allows you to expand your storage system gradually as budget permits rather than financing everything upfront [7].
Strategic design choices fundamentally impact affordability:
- Avoid moving electrical outlets or light switches—working around existing features saves significantly on additional contractor costs [23]
- Consider wall-hung systems versus floor-based options for certain areas [23]
- Opt for flat shoe shelves rather than angled ones for more economical storage [23]
- Skip decorative elements like crown moulding that add cost without improving function [23]
For Melbourne’s heritage homes with their distinctive architectural challenges, our designers at Silk Touch Joinery can develop solutions that respect your budget whilst addressing unique spatial constraints. Book a Free Design Consultation & 3D Measure to explore how we can maximise your investment through thoughtful planning and prioritisation.
In essence, creating your ideal wardrobe becomes an exercise in balancing immediate needs with long-term vision. By investing in quality foundations with Australian-made materials and potentially phasing certain upgrades, you can achieve remarkable results that serve you well for decades to come.
FAQs
Q1. What is the average cost of a custom wardrobe in Melbourne? Custom wardrobe costs in Melbourne vary widely, typically ranging from $2,500 for basic built-ins to over $40,000 for luxury walk-in wardrobes. A mid-range custom wardrobe with quality features usually costs between $5,000 and $10,000.
Q2. How does the cost of flat-pack wardrobes compare to bespoke joinery? While flat-pack wardrobes are initially less expensive, bespoke joinery offers better long-term value. Custom wardrobes maximise space utilisation, provide a perfect fit for your room, and offer superior durability, often justifying the higher initial investment.
Q3. What factors influence the cost of a custom wardrobe? Key factors affecting wardrobe costs include material choices (from melamine to timber veneer), hardware quality, internal layout complexity, door types (hinged vs sliding), and additional features like lighting and finishes. Each element contributes to the overall price and functionality.
Q4. Are there benefits to investing in professional wardrobe installation? Yes, professional installation ensures precision fitting, especially important in Melbourne’s heritage homes with uneven walls and floors. Qualified tradespeople bring specialised expertise, proper tools, and often provide services like floor protection and thorough clean-up, contributing to the wardrobe’s long-term durability and functionality.
Q5. How can I maximise my budget when planning a custom wardrobe? To maximise your budget, consider cost-effective materials like white melamine, prioritise hanging space over drawers, start with essential components and expand gradually, and make strategic design choices that avoid unnecessary modifications to your room. Consulting with a professional designer can help you make informed decisions that balance cost and functionality.
References
[1] – https://hipages.com.au/article/how_much_does_a_wardrobe_cost
[2] – https://www.blum-inspirations.com/en-eu/knowledge/practical-wardrobe-with-interior-sophistication
[3] – https://www.versarobes.com.au/custom-built-wardrobe-benefits/
[4] – https://www.airtasker.com/au/costs/built-in-wardrobe/built-in-wardrobe-cost/
[5] – https://blog.krost.com.au/blog/what-is-the-difference-between-melamine-and-veneer
[6] – https://www.angi.com/articles/do-i-need-handyman-or-contractor.htm
[7] – https://formfunctionwardrobes.com.au/new-wardrobes-on-a-budget/
[8] – https://www.houseofhome.com.au/home-improvement/built-in-wardrobe-design-rules-for-melbourne-homes-storage-that-actually-works/
[9] – https://www.blum.com/au/en/products/
[10] – https://www.wilbrad.com.au/blum-products/blum-cabinet-connectors
[11] – https://www.robesdelivered.com.au/built-in-wardrobe-pricing/
[12] – https://www.lifestylewa.com.au/blog/hinged-vs-sliding-wardrobe-doors-which-one-to-choose/
[13] – https://wardrobeman.com.au/built-in-wardrobe-cost-guide-with-real-examples/
[14] – https://kjoinery.com.au/mdf-wardrobe-melbourne/
[15] – https://www.thequoteyard.com.au/services/built-in-wardrobe-cost-2026-nsw
[16] – https://www.refreshrenovations.com.au/articles/how-much-does-a-high-end-walk-in-wardrobe-cost-au
[17] – https://www.whitegloveassembly.com/about-us
[18] – https://hipages.com.au/connect/whitegloveassembly
[19] – https://sovaraliving.com.au/pages/delivery-assembly?srsltid=AfmBOooh0ZJpdQEttp87QuHC5Wb2Yjspok7qiRtXcSSTH2e1MtJJf08p
[20] – https://www.metrowardrobes.co.uk/inspirations/importance-of-measuring-your-space-for-fitted-wardrobe/
[21] – https://myfittedbedroom.com/blog/what-makes-a-fitted-wardrobe-high-quality-a-homeowners-guide/
[22] – https://www.pioneercabinets.com.au/the-importance-of-professional-measurements-in-custom-cabinet-making
[23] – https://innovatehomeorg.com/blog/2025/08/13-ideas-to-spend-less-on-a-custom-closet/