When it comes to renovating a kitchen, wardrobe, TV console or storage space, homeowners often face one big question:
Should I go for IKEA cabinets or custom carpentry?
Both options have their strengths, and the best choice depends on your budget, design goals, lifestyle and installation expectations. Here’s a detailed breakdown to help you make an informed decision.
⭐ 1. Pricing: Predictable vs Customisable
IKEA Cabinets
- Transparent, fixed pricing
- Pay based on modular sizes
- Add-ons like drawers, organisers and handles are charged separately
- Installation fee may add a significant cost
Suitable for: Homeowners who want a clear, predictable price upfront.
Custom Carpentry
- Pricing varies depending on material, design and workmanship
- Usually includes measurement, fabrication and installation
- Can be as affordable as IKEA or even cheaper for basic works
- Extra charges for premium laminates or complex designs
Suitable for: Those who want flexibility to match any budget or design.
⭐ 2. Design Flexibility: Modular vs Fully Custom
IKEA Cabinets
- Based on modular sizes
- Limited height and width choices
- May leave gaps at the sides or top
- Works best in standard-size rooms
- Great for minimalistic, Scandinavian or compact layouts
Custom Carpentry
- Tailored to fit your exact wall-to-wall measurements
- No wasted space
- Can integrate appliances seamlessly
- Any style — Japandi, Muji, Luxury Modern, Industrial, Classic, etc.
Verdict:
If your room has awkward corners, beams or uneven walls, custom carpentry fits better.
⭐ 3. Material Options: Limited vs Wide Range
IKEA Cabinets
- Mostly particle board with melamine
- Limited laminate choices
- Good for light to medium use
- Long warranty (up to 25 years for kitchens)
Custom Carpentry
You can choose:
- Plywood
- Solid plywood
- Moisture-resistant board (MR)
- Solid wood
- Aluminium cabinets (for wet kitchens)
- Premium laminates (texture, matte, glossy)
Verdict:
Custom carpentry wins for durability, waterproofing and Malaysian-style cooking needs.
⭐ 4. Installation & Workmanship
IKEA Cabinets
- Installed by IKEA’s authorised subcontractors
- Quality is consistent but strictly modular
- Any modification requires extra charges
- Additional work (plumbing, wiring, tiling) not included
Custom Carpentry
- Workmanship depends on the carpenter
- Can customise joints, finishing and internal structure
- Able to solve on-site issues immediately
- More flexibility with electrical points and hidden wiring
Verdict:
IKEA offers consistency, but a skilled carpenter can deliver better finishing and built quality.
⭐ 5. Maintenance & Longevity
IKEA Cabinets
- Easy to replace parts
- But particle board may not withstand humidity long-term
- Laminate peeling possible with heavy moisture
Custom Carpentry
- Plywood and aluminium systems last longer
- Durable for Malaysian humidity
- Better for heavy cooking kitchens
⭐ 6. Warranty & After-Sales Support
IKEA
- Excellent warranty
- Easy parts replacement
- Good for long-term peace of mind
Custom Carpentry
- Warranty varies by contractor
- Good workmanship can last over a decade
- After-sales service depends on the contractor’s reliability
⭐ 7. Aesthetics & Lifestyle Suitability
Choose IKEA if you love:
- Scandinavian / minimalist style
- Clean lines
- Soft, neutral palettes
- Simple and modern storage solutions
Choose Custom Carpentry if you want:
- Built-in wall-to-wall design
- Luxury or premium style
- Bespoke features like fluted panels, hidden doors, curved edges
- More complex designs like Muji/Japandi wardrobes
⭐ Final Verdict: Which Should You Choose?
Both IKEA and custom carpentry are good choices — but for different reasons.
Choose IKEA if:
- You want transparent pricing
- You prefer ready-made modular designs
- You don’t cook heavily
- Your space is standard-sized
- You like DIY planning with IKEA Kitchen Planner or PAX system
Choose Custom Carpentry if:
- You want full design freedom
- Your room has odd shapes or limited space
- You cook heavily (wet kitchen)
- You prefer plywood or aluminium
- You want long-term durability
- You need integrated appliances or built-in look
⭐ Personal Recommendation for Malaysian Homes
For kitchens and built-in wardrobes, custom carpentry usually provides better long-term value, especially with:
- humidity-resistant plywood
- flexible storage planning
- customised dimensions
For simpler furniture like bookshelves, TV consoles, open shelves or side cabinets, IKEA is a great choice due to its affordability and clean look.