Should Built in Wardrobes Go to the Ceiling?

 

As expert cabinet makers and part of the team at Fox Wardrobes & Cabinetry, one of the frequent questions I hear from clients is:
“Should my built in wardrobes go all the way to the ceiling?”

The short answer? In most cases, yes — and here’s why.

 

1. Maximising Storage Space

Let’s face it — no one ever complains about too much storage. Going to the ceiling allows you to take advantage of every inch of vertical space, which is especially valuable in smaller bedrooms or homes with limited storage.

That top section is perfect for:

  • Seasonal items like winter coats or holiday decor
  • Luggage or bulky bedding
  • Shoes, bags, or less frequently used accessories

Even in homes with high ceilings, we often design upper compartments for extra storage and can add fold-down access solutions to keep everything usable and organised.

2. Seamless, Built-In Look

A wardrobe that goes to the ceiling provides a more custom, streamlined appearance. It eliminates the awkward dust-collecting gap between the top of the wardrobe and the ceiling — giving the space a cleaner, more polished finish.

At Fox, we often integrate a bulkhead that is big enough to allow you to organise a cornice expert to come in and add a cornice to the wardrobe to make a cohesive and seamless look.

3. Easier to Maintain

From a practical standpoint, wardrobes that reach the ceiling are easier to clean and maintain. Gaps above wardrobes are notorious for collecting dust — which are difficult (and often unsafe) to clean regularly.

By sealing off the top, you save time and effort in the long run — and gain a neater, more hygienic storage area.

4. Tailored to Your Ceiling Height

We’re often asked if ceiling height can be an issue — and the answer is, not up to 3,600mm with a custom solution. Whether your ceiling is standard, sloped, or unusually high, our team designs each wardrobe to fit perfectly within the space.

At Fox Wardrobes & Cabinetry, we custom-manufacture all cabinetry locally in our factory, which means:

  • No wasted space
  • No awkward gaps
  • A fit that feels built for your home — because it is.

When You Might Not Go to the Ceiling

While we generally recommend full-height wardrobes, there are a few exceptions where a modified approach is more suitable:

  • Heritage homes: When ornate ceiling features or decorative cornices are a key part of the architectural charm, we typically build just below the ceiling to preserve those details. In these cases, we can finish the wardrobe with a custom heritage-style capping to seamlessly complement the home’s character.
  • Very high ceilings: For ceilings above 3,600mm, a full-height wardrobe may not be practical or necessary. In most cases, we’ll design a proportional solution that maintains visual balance and accessibility.
  • Restricted access: If the space presents installation challenges — such as limited access or safety concerns when lifting large cabinetry — we may recommend a reduced-height design to ensure a safe and efficient installation process.

Our Expert Recommendation

At Fox Wardrobes & Cabinetry, we strongly recommend going to the ceiling if you’re investing in a custom wardrobe.
You’ll get:

  • More usable space
  • A cleaner and more cohesive design
  • Better long-term functionality

If you’re not sure what’s right for your space, we offer free in-home consultations and can walk you through the best options for your room.

 

Why Choose Fox Wardrobes and Cabinetry?

At Fox, we pride ourselves on being trade-qualified cabinet makers. Our team brings specialized skills and a commitment to excellence to every project. We use only the best hardware, materials, and practices to ensure your cabinetry is built to last. For your next cabinetry project, trust your local trade-qualified cabinet makers.

We are members of the Timber Trade Industry Association (TTIA) and Australian Cabinet and Furniture Association (ACFA) ensuring we are up to date with the latest industry issues and challenges and are on the leading edge of industry developments. When you choose Fox, you’re engaging a company that values quality, safety, and customer satisfaction. Our expertise means that even if challenges arise during your project, we have the knowledge and resources to address them effectively.

 

At Fox Wardrobes, we understand that every project is unique, and every client has distinct preferences. Our goal is to provide tailored solutions that meet your unique requirements while ensuring the highest standards of craftsmanship and quality. Our team of experts is here to guide you every step of the way. You can see more of our projects on instagram and Facebook for inspiration. Reach out via online enquiry today or call our office on 9971 8802.