Built in or free standing alcove storage?

We need to clear/hide kiddie clutter before christmas brings even more stuff into the house and want to get storage into the alcoves both sides of fireplace. Don't have a huge budget but do want to get something that looks decent and won't have to be replaced in the future.

Would the experts here recommend trying to get free standing cabinets or is it financially approachable to get something built in?

Would built in make a mess of the walls and require repainting as I can't face or afford a big redecorating job!

And if built in, how do I find a decent carpenter who will be easy to deal with and do good work for a good price? I'm in south Dub.

Thanks much!

I'd prefer something built in myself. Its a matter of personal taste really.

You could be cheap or expensive free standing units. So cost is as much as you want it to be.