How much should you budget for a closet renovation?

A custom closet can cost anywhere from a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars depending on its size, materials, and design complexity. You’ll have to consider both the amount of storage space you need and any additional features or customizations you want. You should also factor in the cost of professional installation if you plan to hire a contractor to install your closet.

What is the best material for a custom closet?

The best material for your custom closet will depend on your personal style, budget, and the type of storage you need. Wood is a popular choice for custom closets because of its versatility, durability, and ease of installation and modification. Laminate is also a cost-effective option for custom closets and can be finished to look like wood, stone, or another material, although it isn't as durable compared to other materials.

How long does it take to build a custom closet?

The time it takes to build a custom closet depends on its size, the complexity of the design, the availability of materials, the labor required, and other factors. The entire process can take anywhere from a few days to several weeks. The actual installation is usually completed in a single day, but the preparation and planning that goes into it can take much longer.

Does a custom closet increase a home’s value?

A well-designed and properly installed custom closet will increase not just the storage capacity of your, but also the value of your home. Furthermore, custom closets are often seen as a premium feature that buyers are willing to pay more for.

The 6 Best Closet Design Companies of 2023

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High Angle View Of Girl Arranging Cloths In Drawer At Home — Photo:
Natalia Kostikova / EyeEm / Getty Images

Unless you’ve spent a lot of time Marie Kondo-ing your home, you, like many other Americans, might have a “too much stuff” problem. A 2023 report estimated that 11.1% of all American homes—that’s around 14.6 million households—rent a self-storage unit to keep additional possessions. But if you find yourself running out of room for all your things, the solution may be as simple as redesigning your home’s storage.

Closets—be they reach-ins, walk-ins, or something in between—can either be pits of despair or places of peace and organization. A well-designed closet will store your belongings in a tidy and aesthetically pleasing manner, so if yours is a mess, consider hiring a closet design company. The best companies offer a wide range of materials, styles, and custom components for you to choose from. They also have in-house designers who can walk you through every step of the consultation, design, ordering, and installation process and will work with you to create a closet suited to your needs.

The Best Closet Design Companies of 2023

Best Overall: The Container Store
Best High-End Choice: California Closets
Best for Customization: Closets by Design
Best for DIY: EasyClosets
Best for Full Service: Inspired Closets
Best for Sustainability: Closet Factory

Best Overall: The Container Store

The Container Store

Get a Quote

Key Specs

Nationwide Availability: 34 states and Washington, D.C.
Warranty: 10-year guarantee and limited lifetime depending on model
Free Consultation? Yes

Pros

Four closet systems to choose from
All closet systems are customizable
Virtual, in-home, and in-store consultations available

Cons

Costs more if you don’t live near a Container Store location
High-end systems require professional installation

Why It Made the List

If you’re seeking to enhance your home or workspace, The Container Store offers versatile and customizable storage solutions. With four closet systems to choose from—Elfa Classic, Elfa Décor, Avera, and Preston—you’ll likely find one that meets your needs. Each line boasts a distinct style, color palette, and organizational system and can be upgraded with premium features like LED lighting and soft-close drawers.

The cost of a closet from The Container Store will vary depending on the package you choose and the customizations you make, with estimates ranging from $900 to $12,500 or more. To get a quote, you can schedule a free consultation with a Custom Space Expert in a store, at home, or via video chat. If you pick an Elfa design, you can either install it yourself or make use of paid professional installation — Avera and Preston systems require pros to do the job.

In addition to its closet systems, The Container Store provides a comprehensive range of organizational accessories, including wire and solid shelves, shoe shelves, drawer units, pegboards, and accessory trays. The company also has a collection of eco-friendly storage accessories made from materials such as bamboo, handwoven fibers, and natural cotton if you’re seeking more sustainable options.

Best High-End Choice: California Closets

Get a Quote

Key Specs

Nationwide Availability: 38 states, Washington, D.C., and Puerto Rico
Warranty: Lifetime
Free Consultation? Yes

Pros

Closets are made with high-quality materials
Full-service design from consultation to installation
Limited lifetime warranty on all closets

Cons

Custom closets are expensive

Why It Made the List

California Closets is a well-known provider of both full-service and DIY closet designs. It uses premium finishes and high-end accessories to create custom closets that are stylish and functional. The company’s process begins with a complimentary in-home consultation, during which a design professional will take measurements and create a computer-aided design rendering of your closet solution.

After you approve the design and make final selections, the closet system will be manufactured and installed by a qualified professional within four to six weeks. California Closets uses high-quality laminated wood that’s resistant to warping, scratching, and fading, ensuring the longevity of your closet regardless of whether you go with a full-service or budget-friendly Everyday System closet. You also have the option of adding clever features such as glass-front drawers, charging stations, and built-in digital safes.

Best for Customization: Closets by Design

Get a Quote

Key Specs

Nationwide Availability: 34 states and Washington, D.C.
Warranty: Seven years
Free Consultation? Yes

Pros

Four different collections for any budget or style
Personal designer assigned to each customer
Wide variety of customization options

Cons

Not all finishes available with each collection
Warranty lasts for only seven years

Why It Made the List

Closets by Design is a leading provider of custom closet systems, offering a huge range of customization and upgrade options. The company’s designers will help you create a dream storage space that caters to your specific needs and preferences. The process starts with a complimentary consultation either at your home or at a Closets by Design showroom, during which a designer will help you come up with your ideal organizational system.

Whether it’s a simple reach-in closet or a spacious walk-in closet, Closets by Design can handle any wardrobe transformation. The company offers four different closet styles to choose from: Everyday, Classic, Regency, and Brio — all of which can be customized with shelving units, drawers, and cabinets. Upgrades, such as half-overlay deco doors and crown molding, are also available to enhance your closet’s aesthetic appeal.

While the company has an array of finishes, there are restrictions. Not every system has access to the same finishes, which can limit your options if you're looking for a specific look. Also note that your final closet is only covered up to seven years with the company's warranty policy.

Best for DIY: EasyClosets

Get a Quote

Key Specs

Nationwide Availability: 50 states
Warranty: Limited lifetime
Free Consultation? Yes

Pros

Instant price calculator and online modeler
Wide variety of finishes available
Free shipping on larger orders

Cons

Installation may require specialized tools
Limited options for customization and accessories

Why It Made the List

EasyClosets is a one-stop shop for DIY closet design and installation. The company’s user-friendly online design tool lets you take control of your closet project from start to finish, without the need for professional assistance. The tool allows you to create a 3D replica of your closet space, and experiment with different configurations until you arrive at a custom closet that you love.

Inputting the precise dimensions will give you the most accurate representation, but if you don’t have them, sample measurements are available—a nice touch to help you get started. As you make design choices, the cost calculator updates in real time, helping you stay on budget.

After you place an order, EasyClosets manufactures components to fit your specifications and then ships them directly to you — orders over $400 qualify for free shipping. You’ll have to install everything yourself, but assembly instructions and support from the EasyClosets team are available if you run into any challenges. Do note that the company’s system is designed for those with the necessary know-how and power tools.

Best for Full Service: Inspired Closets

Get a Quote

Key Specs

Nationwide Availability: 31 states
Warranty: Limited lifetime
Free Consultation? Yes

Pros

Spearheads process from design to installation
Can preview hardware and samples in person
Offers pre-configured closet layouts

Cons

No options for DIY installation
No online modeling

Why It Made the List

If you’re looking to transform your walk-in closet into a high-end, personalized dressing room, Inspired Closets offers a full-service solution. The company specializes in custom organization solutions and has a portfolio of walk-in closet transformations that speak to its expertise. Its process starts with an in-home, virtual, or in-store consultation with a designer, who will help you choose the perfect layout, finishes, and hardware for your space. Moreover, you can even see a 3D preview of your future closet or check out samples in-person.

If you want an organized closet but don’t want to make every little customization decision, the company also offers preset designs for a range of closet types, including walk-in, reach-in, and boutique. Simply select the color, finish, and hardware to personalize your closet. Inspired Closets’ services are on the expensive side, but the complete support it offers from start to finish makes it the best full-service closet design company around.

Best for Sustainability: Closet Factory

Closet Factory

Get a Quote

Key Specs

Nationwide Availability: 30 states and Washington, D.C.
Warranty: Limited lifetime
Free Consultation? Yes

Pros

Materials are recycled or sustainably sourced
Offers online, in-store, or in-person consultations
Has a wide selection of accessories

Cons

Limited nationwide availability
Strictly offers floor-based closet systems

Why It Made the List

Closet Factory is a top option for comprehensive and environmentally conscious closet design solutions. The company takes extra measures to minimize its environmental impact, utilizing 100% recycled wood panels when constructing its closets. Other wood parts are Forest Stewardship Council certified, meaning they’ve been sourced from forests managed using sustainable practices.

You’ll start with a free at-home, in-store, or online consultation with a designer, who will help you determine the best layout for your closet. During this meeting, you'll assist with choosing customizable features like shoe trays, ironing drawers, and tie cubbies. After you approve a virtual model of the design, the company will schedule the installation, which can be completed in as little as one day.

The company's commitment to sustainability and excellent service is commendable, but nationwide availability is limited. To check to see if Closet Factory services your area, you'll have to enter your ZIP code using the site's search system. If you're also looking to customize a closet that isn't floor-based, you'll have to use another service instead as the company doesn't specialize in this particular system.

Final Verdict

The Container Store stands apart from other closet design companies on our list thanks to the variety of services, designs, and installation methods it offers. The company’s closet designs are available in a wide array of layouts and finishes along with a number of customization options. Elfa, its signature organizing system, gets positive reviews from customers, while its Avera and Preston systems offer a more premium experience, with upgrades and high-end amenities. And unlike some other companies, which only offer professional or DIY installation, The Container Store offers both.

Compare the Best Closet Design Companies

Company	Nationwide Availability	Price	Warranty	Free Consultation?
The Container Store Best Overall	34 states and Washington, D.C.	$–$$	Elfa: 10-year guarantee; Avera, Preston: limited lifetime	Yes
California Closets Best High-End Choice	38 states, Washington, D.C., and Puerto Rico	$$$	Lifetime	Yes
Closets by Design Best for Customization	34 states and Washington, D.C.	$$	Seven years	Yes
EasyClosets Best for DIY	50 states	$	Limited lifetime	Yes
Inspired Closets Best for Full Service	31 states	$$–$$$	Limited lifetime	Yes
Closet Factory Best for Sustainability	30 states and Washington, D.C.	$$	Limited lifetime	Yes

How Do You Design and Install a Custom Closet?

Fitting out your home with a custom closet involves four simple steps from start to finish:

Step 1: Consultation

Consultations can be done at home, in a store, or virtually and involve meeting with a designer to discuss your needs, preferences, and the layout of your closet. The designer will take measurements and ask about your storage needs, aesthetic preferences, and budget. With DIY closet installations, you might do this step yourself using an online guide.

Step 2: Layout Selection

Based on the information gathered during the consultation, the designer will suggest a layout that optimizes your storage space and meets your preferences. You should be able to see a 3D rendering of the design and make any necessary changes. For DIY projects, you’ll likely use computer modeling provided by a supplier to help visualize and design your layout.

Step 3: Material and Feature Selection

In this step, you’ll select the materials and features to use in your custom closet, such as the type of wood, finish, hardware, lighting, and organizational components. Your designer may provide you with samples of the materials and options so that you can make more informed decisions.

Step 4: Installation

Once you’ve approved the final design, the installation process will begin. This will often involve construction of the closet’s components and may take one to five days depending on the complexity of the design. Once the installation is complete, your designer will review the final product with you to ensure you’re satisfied with the result. For DIY projects, you’ll typically be shipped the necessary materials, and assembly time will vary depending on the complexity of the project and your experience.

Guide to Choosing the Best Closet Design Company

When installing a custom closet, choosing the right closet design company is important. You’ll need to consider the following factors when selecting a company to bring your vision to life.

Reputation and Experience

When researching a closet design company, consider its reputation and level of experience. Check out reviews, especially those for the local branch of the business, and talk to anyone you know who’s hired the company before. An experienced and established company with a solid reputation will likely provide you with a better design, materials, and installation process.

Customization Options

The level of customization a closet design company offers is crucial to ensuring your closet meets your unique needs and style preferences. High-end design companies will offer a wide range of finishes, hardware options, and layout configurations to ensure the closet is tailored exactly to your requirements, but even if you’re working with a small budget, most companies will provide several options.

Design Process

Another key factor to consider is a company’s design process. Look for a company that offers detailed and thorough consultations to help you plan and visualize your closet. A virtual or in-home consultation is ideal, as it allows you to see the design in your own space and make any necessary changes.

Installation and Service

The installation process is the most critical aspect of your closet design project. Some companies have lengthy installation processes, while others offer one-day turnarounds. Certain companies offer a DIY installation option if you’re on a budget, but keep in mind this may require more technical knowledge and tools. While some options may be simple to assemble, others are significantly more detailed and complex.

Cost

The price of a custom closet can vary widely, so it’s important to set a budget and consider the cost of the project before hiring someone. Look for a company that offers competitive pricing while still providing high-quality materials, design, and installation services.

Sustainability and Environmental Impact

Finally, if you’re concerned about your carbon footprint, look for a closet design company that tries to minimize its environmental impact. Companies that use environmentally friendly materials and practices and that prioritize sustainability in their operations and designs will be much better for the world and for your home long-term.

What Factors Impact the Cost of a Custom Closet?

The cost of a custom closet is influenced by several factors, including:

Material selection: The type of materials used—such as solid wood, engineered wood, melamine, or laminate—will have a big impact on the overall cost of the closet.
Closet size: The larger the closet, the more it will cost, as more materials and labor will be required to build it.
Custom features: Custom features like built-in lighting and soft-close drawers can greatly increase the cost of a custom closet.
Designer and installation costs: The cost of the designer and installation professionals can also impact the overall cost of a custom closet. Naturally, higher-end design firms and professional installers typically charge more for their services.
Type of closet: Walk-in closets tend to be more expensive due to their larger size and greater number of custom features.
Location: Design firms in urban areas often charge more than their rural counterparts due to higher overhead costs. In some cases, however, the opposite will be true, on account of higher shipping costs or the lack of competitors.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much should you budget for a closet renovation?

A custom closet can cost anywhere from a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars depending on its size, materials, and design complexity. You’ll have to consider both the amount of storage space you need and any additional features or customizations you want. You should also factor in the cost of professional installation if you plan to hire a contractor to install your closet.
What is the best material for a custom closet?

The best material for your custom closet will depend on your personal style, budget, and the type of storage you need. Wood is a popular choice for custom closets because of its versatility, durability, and ease of installation and modification. Laminate is also a cost-effective option for custom closets and can be finished to look like wood, stone, or another material, although it isn't as durable compared to other materials.
How long does it take to build a custom closet?

The time it takes to build a custom closet depends on its size, the complexity of the design, the availability of materials, the labor required, and other factors. The entire process can take anywhere from a few days to several weeks. The actual installation is usually completed in a single day, but the preparation and planning that goes into it can take much longer.
Does a custom closet increase a home’s value?

A well-designed and properly installed custom closet will increase not just the storage capacity of your, but also the value of your home. Furthermore, custom closets are often seen as a premium feature that buyers are willing to pay more for.

Methodology

Our researchers evaluated numerous closet design companies to determine which offered the best layouts, customization options, and prices. Services that didn’t have any extra or hidden fees and that offered multiple lines of communication were awarded extra points during our scoring phase. Companies that were transparent about their pricing and offered free virtual consultations were rated higher than other services. Any companies that faltered in the aforementioned categories or provided limited information about their services didn’t make it past our initial round of research.

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Sources

Better Homes & Gardens is committed to using high-quality, reputable sources—including peer-reviewed studies—to support the facts in our articles. Read about our editorial policies and standards to learn more about how we fact check our content for accuracy.