DIY Cabinets
How to Build a DIY Built-In Wardrobe: Step-by-Step South African Guide
From measuring and planning to hanging doors — a practical guide for the confident home builder
8 min read · Cupboards2Cabinets design team
A built-in wardrobe is one of the more achievable DIY joinery projects, provided you accept that walls are never square and plan for scribing.
01Measure and plan
Measure the opening at three heights and three depths — floor, middle and ceiling — and design to the smallest dimension. Allow a scribe filler of 20–30mm at each end so you can correct out-of-plumb walls.
- Hanging rail height: 1050mm for shirts, 1700mm for full-length
- Standard carcass depth: 600mm
- Shelf spacing for folded items: 350mm
02Cutting and assembly
Have the board cut to size by your supplier with edging applied — it costs little and the accuracy is far better than a circular saw on a trestle. Assemble carcasses on a flat floor, check diagonals, then fix a back panel to hold everything square.
03Hanging doors
Doors are where DIY wardrobes usually fail. Use a hinge jig for consistent cup holes, hang the outer doors first, and adjust inward. Budget an entire afternoon for alignment and you will not be disappointed.
The takeaway
Get the board cut professionally, build square carcasses, and reserve real time for door alignment.
Planning this project yourself?
Use our cost estimator for an indicative range, or book a free home consultation and we'll measure, design and quote precisely.