Alcove cupboards are an excellent way to maximise storage space in any room. They provide a functional storage solution while also adding a touch of elegance and sophistication to the space.

But how much do alcove cupboards cost to fit? We’ll go through everything in our guide, including the cost of alcove shelves and cupboards and the advantages and disadvantages of using a local carpenter over a fitted furniture company.

How much do alcove cupboards cost?

The cost of alcove cupboards can vary greatly depending on several factors, including the type of material used, the size of the cupboards, and how much customisation you’d like.

On average, the cost of a basic set of alcove cupboards can range from £800 to £3,000. This cost can increase significantly if you choose to add extra features such as lighting, glass panels, or custom finishes.

Item	Average cost
Bespoke alcove cupboard	£800-£1,000
2 bespoke alcove shelves and cupboards	£2,000-£3,000
Floating alcove shelf	£80-£150
Window seat	£800-£1,200
Carpenter hourly rate	£16-£40

These costs are taken from UK averages. Carpenter rates will vary depending on where you live, as the cost of living is different across the country. Expect to pay more if you live in major towns or cities, and less if you’re in more rural areas.

HaMuch has a large database of hourly and daily rates for carpenters all over the UK, and we’ve put them together to give you an idea of how much you’ll pay for a carpenter in many towns and cities. Simply look at the table further down the page and find your home town to get a more accurate idea of how much you’ll pay for labour.

Alcove shelves and cupboards cost

If you want a versatile storage space, alcove shelves and cupboards fitted together may be the perfect solution. While fitted bookcases are ideal if you have lots of books that you want on display, alcove shelves with cupboards allow you to store items out of sight, keeping your home clutter-free.

A bespoke set of alcove shelves with a cupboard will cost somewhere between £1,000-£1,500. If you have two alcoves either side of a chimney breast, a matching pair would give a beautiful symmetrical look.

Of course, the final cost will depend on the material you choose to have your alcove shelves and cupboards made out of. MDF and plywood are cheaper options, but hardwood will look fantastic and will last longer.

Creating alcove cupboards video

Using a local carpenter vs a fitted furniture company for alcove cupboards

When it comes to designing and installing bespoke alcove cupboards, you can use a local carpenter or a fitted furniture company. Each option has its advantages and disadvantages, and it ultimately depends on your specific needs and preferences.

Advantages to using a local carpenter

Can offer a personalised touch: Your carpenter can work with you to create a unique design that fits your specific needs and preferences. Whether you want one tall cupboard or a smaller cupboard with floating shelves, or perhaps LED spotlights, they can work with you to make it happen.

Flexibility: Local carpenters often have more flexibility with their schedules and can provide a quicker turnaround time than larger companies, allowing you to have your alcove cupboards installed faster.

More choice: Carpenters will have access to a wide variety of materials, giving you greater freedom in the design process. You’ll be able to choose from various hardwoods and stains for the wood to give you the exact look you want.

Disadvantages to using a local carpenter

Expertise and resources: A carpenter may not have the same level of expertise and resources as a larger company, which can result in lower quality workmanship or longer lead times.

Limited availability: If the carpenter is a sole trader or a small business, they may have limited availability, which could result in a longer waiting period for your project.

Advantages to using a fitted furniture company

Streamlined and efficient: Fitted furniture companies often have a team of experienced professionals who can handle the entire project from start to finish, including design, manufacturing, and installation. That means your project might be completed more quickly.

Warranty: Fitted furniture companies may also offer more extensive warranties and guarantees on their work, giving you greater peace of mind.

Disadvantages to using a fitted furniture company

Limited customisation: A fitted furniture company may not offer the same level of customisation or flexibility as a local carpenter. They may have a more limited selection of materials and designs, which could make it more challenging to achieve a unique look.

Cost: In general, fitted furniture companies charge more due to their overhead costs and additional expenses associated with running a larger business.

The decision to use a local carpenter or a fitted furniture company for your bespoke alcove cupboards will depend on your specific needs and priorities.

It's essential to weigh up the advantages and disadvantages of each option carefully to ensure that you end up with high-quality, functional and stylish alcove cupboards that meet your needs and budget.

How deep should alcove cupboards be?

The depth of alcove cupboards will be determined by the items you plan to store and how deep your alcove is.

The standard depth of alcove cupboards range from 30cm to 60cm. If you plan to store larger items like books or big ornaments, a deeper cupboard may be necessary.

On the other hand, if you're storing smaller items like trinkets, a shallower cupboard of 30cm will be suitable. It's important to consider what you plan to store and measure the items to ensure that the cupboard depth will accommodate them.

What is the standard alcove cabinet size?

The standard size of alcove cabinets varies slightly, but a common size for alcove cabinets is 80cm high which is the height of a standard sideboard.

However, you can customise the height and width of alcove cabinets to fit your specific storage needs and the size of your alcove.

It's important to measure the space available and consider what items you plan to store before deciding on the size of your alcove cabinets. This will ensure that you maximise storage space while creating a functional and aesthetically-pleasing storage solution.

Now you know the average cost of alcove cupboards, post your job on HaMuch to get a more accurate quote. We’ll put you in touch with local carpenters who are ready to do the job.

Estimates for common carpenter & joiner jobs;

Rates for other trades