Design Dilemma: Freestanding Cabinets or Built-Ins?

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Photo credit: Shane V. Charles

If you’re making the decision between freestanding cabinets or built-ins, you’re not alone. Many have stood in your exact place, weighing permanence against flexibility, form against function

Built-ins provide a tailored, lasting solution carved to fit your space like a glove, but they often come at a higher cost. Freestanding cabinets are more forgiving when your tastes or needs shift, plus they’re more budget-friendly. 

So, which is better? Here's a quick guide to choosing the best option for your home.

PHOTO Credit: The Spruce / Christopher Lee Foto

Easy and Flexible: Freestanding Cabinets

Standalone cabinets move when you do, making them the perfect solution for those who prefers flexibility over fixed design. If you’re a renter or move houses frequently, it makes sense to keep your furniture mobile as well. Some common types of freestanding cabinets include:

  • Bookcases

  • Wardrobes 

  • Sideboards

  • Kitchen hutches

  • Display cases

  • Dressers

These are all practical, portable, and endlessly rearrangeable!

Pros of Freestanding Cabinets:

The best thing about freestanding cabinets is how flexible they are. They can be moved around and replaced as needed. They are generally more budget-friendly as they’re not a custom solution. They’re also easier to clean as you can move them away from the wall, and clean the area all around. Add to this that you can use them as a fun accent piece wherever you need and they are clearly a great option!

Photo Credit: Room & Board 

Challenges of Freestanding Cabinets:

The downsides of freestanding cabinets, like any other furniture piece is that they don’t always make the most of your space. There might be gaps in between the cabinet and the wall, which built-ins would not have. And because they stand on their own, you may need to anchor them with a tip kit, especially for taller cabinets, to make sure they stay safely in place. This is especially important if you have kids.

Custom Made: Beautiful Built-Ins

There’s definitely something to be said for a custom or semi-custom built-ins. This type of storage unit will be integrated with your walls so that it essentially becomes a new wall with shelving. Built-ins come in many forms, including:

Storage meets structure in this new architectural addition to your home.

Pros of Built-Ins:

Built-ins create a seamless, made-for-you aesthetic that elevates any space.Their tailored fit creates a polished, intentional look, adding a sense of quiet luxury. Because they’re custom-designed, they make the most of every inch, leaving no awkward gaps. And when it comes time to sell, built-ins can enhance your home’s appeal and value.

Challenges of Built-Ins: 

Built-ins are a permanent decision, so you have to be ready to commit to the design. This could potentially limit the usage of the room in the future. For example, if you add built-in bookshelves for a library, the room can’t easily be repurposed into a bedroom later. They also come with a higher price tag, as the craftsmanship is typically done by hand and tailored to fit your space. And depending on the scale, installation can take several weeks from initial design to the finish line.

Which Is Right For You?

There are a few considerations that might influence your decision one way or the other. These include:

  • Budget: Freestanding pieces are typically more budget-friendly, while built-ins involve a higher investment due to custom materials and skilled labor.

  • Space Constraints: Think about which option will make the most of your layout. Built-ins maximize every inch, while freestanding pieces may offer more flexibility in tricky or evolving spaces.

  • Lifestyle: If you’re renting or expect to move frequently, freestanding furniture offers the freedom to take your pieces with you.

  • Style: At the end of the day, it’s also about what resonates with your design preferences.

    As with all things in design, there is no single right answer, only what is right for you. If you’re feeling unsure about your design project, we’d love to help! Schedule a consultation with us and we’ll guide you in finding a storage solution that fits beautifully into your home and life.