When it comes to bedroom storage in London, space is the ultimate luxury. Whether you live in a sleek Westminster apartment or a Victorian terrace in Wandsworth, choosing the right wardrobe can be the difference between a cluttered room and a sanctuary.
The two biggest contenders are the IKEA PAX system and Fully Bespoke Fitted Wardrobes. But which one is the better investment for 2026? At Alain Assembling, we install both. Here is our expert breakdown to help you decide.
1. The Cost Comparison: Budget vs. Investment
- IKEA PAX: The gold standard for affordability. You can usually fit out a standard room for £500 – £1,500. It’s perfect for renters or those on a budget.
- Bespoke (Sharps, Hammonds, or Local Craftsmen): A high-end fitted wardrobe in London typically starts at £2,500 – £5,000+. This is a long-term investment that adds actual value to your property.
2. Space Optimization: Solving the “London Lean”
London houses—especially in areas like Richmond and Clapham Junction—are famous for uneven floors and alcoves that aren’t perfectly square.
- The IKEA Problem: PAX units come in fixed heights and widths. If your ceiling is sloped or your alcove is 1cm too narrow, you’ll be left with ugly gaps that collect dust.
- The Bespoke Solution: Truly bespoke furniture is cut on-site to fit your specific walls. It goes floor-to-ceiling and wall-to-wall, maximizing every millimeter of storage.
3. The “IKEA Hack” – The Middle Ground
Did you know there’s a third option? Many of our clients in Westminster buy IKEA PAX frames but hire Alain Assembling to add custom “filler” panels and bespoke handles. This gives you the high-end “fitted” look at a fraction of the cost of brands like Neville Johnson or Bravo London.
Why Choose Alain Assembling for Your Installation?
”Check our Instagram and Website Reviews to see how we’ve transformed awkward London alcoves into stunning storage solutions.”
- We Know London Architecture: We specialize in leveling furniture on the uneven floors of Victorian and Edwardian homes.
- Expert Brand Knowledge: From John Lewis and Wayfair to MyBeds and IKEA, we know every screw and cam lock by heart.
- Guaranteed Stability: We don’t just build; we secure. Every wardrobe is wall-anchored for total safety.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Can IKEA PAX wardrobes be made to look built-in?
A: Yes! We specialize in “IKEA Hacks” where we use decorative molding and filler strips to close the gaps between the wardrobe and your walls/ceiling.
Q: How long does a bespoke wardrobe installation take?
A: A standard flat-pack assembly takes 3–5 hours, while a full bespoke installation can take 1–2 days.
Q: Do you serve Westminster and Central London?
A: Yes, we provide full assembly and installation services across Central London, Westminster, Wandsworth, Clapham, and Richmond.
Get a Quote for Your Wardrobe Project
Ready to upgrade your storage? Whether you need a team to build your new IKEA PAX or help installing a bespoke unit, we are here to help.
- Call Us: 020 3984 7644
- WhatsApp: 020 3984 7644 (Send us your design plans for a fast quote!)
- Web: www.alainassembling.com

