Wandkasten

A wandkasten, in German-speaking contexts, is a cabinet that is mounted on a wall or built into a wall niche to provide storage. It can be surface-mounted and simply attached to the wall, or recessed so that the cabinet sits flush with the surrounding surface. Wandkasten are used in kitchens, bathrooms, living rooms, hallways, and offices to organize dishes, toiletries, documents, tools, or personal items.

Construction and design options vary. Common materials include wood-based panels such as MDF, particleboard, plywood, often with veneers, laminates, or melamine finishes. Metal and glass are also used for certain styles. Doors may be hinged, sliding, or lift-up, and interiors commonly feature adjustable shelves to accommodate different item heights. Sizes range from compact medicine cabinets to tall pantry-style units. In bathrooms, a subset of wandkasten known as spiegeltresen or spiegeleinbaukabinette may incorporate a mirror door.

Installation considerations are important. Wall cabinets should be securely fastened to studs or with appropriate anchors to bear weight, and must be installed level. Moisture exposure affects material choice, so bathrooms and kitchens often use moisture-resistant boards and seals. If the cabinet houses electrical components or lighting, ventilation and safety clearances should be observed.

Related concepts include built-in cabinets (einbaukasten) and wall-mounted storage systems. In everyday use, wandkasten provide flexible, space-saving storage solutions that can be designed to match interior styles from traditional to modern.