Costs
How Much Do Built-ins Cost in Calgary?
Updated 2 min read
The short answer
There is no honest per-foot answer, because the same three metres of wall might be open shelving or a fully doored storage wall with integrated lighting and a stone counter — a difference of roughly three times in price. What we can do is tell you exactly which variables drive the number so you can compare quotes on equal terms.
The variables, in order of impact
| Variable | Lower cost | Higher cost |
|---|---|---|
| Doors and drawers | Open shelving only | Many doors and soft-close drawers |
| Finish method | Site-painted MDF | Shop-sprayed catalysed finish or stain |
| Material | MDF and birch ply | Rift white oak, walnut, matched veneer |
| Height | Stops at 2100mm | Full height to a 10ft ceiling with cornice |
| Integrated services | None | Wiring, lighting, ventilation, appliance cut-outs |
| Site condition | Square walls, level floor | Heavy scribing and trim removal |
| Specialty | Solid doors | Glass fronts, fluting, curved work |
Alberta charges 5% GST and no PST, so a quoted price here carries less tax than in most other provinces.
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We design and build custom work for Calgary homes. A free consultation is the first step.
Questions that make two quotes comparable
- What is the carcass made from, and how thick?
- What are the drawer boxes — solid wood joinery, or stapled panel?
- What slides and hinges, and are they full-extension and adjustable?
- Is the finish shop-sprayed or brush-applied on site?
- Does the price include removing existing cabinetry and repairing the wall?
- Who arranges any electrical work — is a licensed trade included?
- Is the quote fixed, or an estimate that can move?
Answers
Frequently asked questions
- Why will nobody give me a price over the phone?
- Because the same wall can be built five different ways across a very wide range, and quoting the cheapest version when you meant the most complete one helps nobody. A measure and a drawing take an hour and produce a number that is actually reliable.
- Do you charge for quotes?
- No. Consultations, measures and written quotes are free and carry no obligation. Detailed design work is included once you proceed with the project.
- Can I reduce the cost without reducing quality?
- Yes — reduce the number of doors and drawers, choose a simpler door style, use painted MDF rather than a premium species, and keep services out of the cabinetry. Those four decisions move the price substantially without touching the construction quality that determines how it ages.
Ready to discuss your project?
We offer free consultations and fixed written quotes across Calgary.