Built-In vs Freestanding Cabinets

Built-in cabinets sit flush with your walls or into alcoves, creating a sense of permanence and architectural intent. They’re made to measure, with every millimetre used efficiently - no awkward gaps for dust to collect. This can make built-ins especially popular in apartments, heritage homes where architectural detail matters, or high-end commercial settings that demand a polished finish. Built-ins can reflect the character of the space, right down to the materials chosen. On the flip side, removal isn’t straightforward if your needs change. In contrast, freestanding cabinets give you flexibility. You can move them when layouts change or if you’re renting and don’t want to invest in permanent fixtures. However, standard sizes may not fit perfectly. Freestanding pieces can look out of place in rooms with unusual dimensions or strong design language.