Many homeowners dream of a designer closet. A custom closet can maximize your usable space, increase organization, and create a beautiful look in your home. The proof is in the details! Many homeowners choose California Closets to design and install custom closet systems in their homes.
California Closets is a custom closet service with multiple locations throughout North America. They offer a variety of custom closet options at four different price levels. The most basic closet level starts at $1,000 for a 6-foot closet, level 2 starts at $3,000, level 3 starts at $5,000, and level 4 starts at $11,000. This does not include separate charges for a contractor to remove the old closet and repair drywall before installation.
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All About California Closets
California Closets has over 2,000 locations, including 120 showrooms, throughout North America. If there is not a showroom in your area, a design team may still be available for a free in-home consultation. Check their location page to find a team near you.
The business has been around for over 40 years and operates as a franchise structure. Franchise owners each run their own team of designers and installation experts.
The closets are produced in America out of sustainable materials. There is a lifetime warranty against material defects and a one-year warranty on everything else. Check with your franchise for specific warranty information.
What Do California Closets Cost?
California Closets have four price tiers or levels. Level 1 is called ‘Practical Simplicity’. It includes custom design, ¾” thick boards, off-the-floor shelves, and some custom additions, like baskets, or racks. The Level 1 closets start at $1,000 for a six-foot closet space.
Level 2 is called ‘Expanded Features’. It includes the option of a matte finish with ¾’ boards, to the floor construction, and trim, so the closet looks like a built-in. Undermount drawers and decorative hardware give the closet a refined look. These Level 2 closets start at $3,000.
Level 3 is ‘Elevated Details’, with stylish, customizable, yet practical options. The 1-inch boards come in several finishes. You can expect floor-to-ceiling built-ins with molding and trim. There are lots of accessory options, integrated lighting, and specialty backing and countertop materials. The Level 3 closets start at $5,000.
Finally, Level 4 is called ‘Luxury Refined’. This is a posh, high-end closet system with premium finishes and hardware. It has luxury inserts and materials and has the look of high-end furniture. Built-in lighting, switches, and charging stations make it functional, as well as attractive. These luxurious Level 4 closets start at $11,000.
Total Closet Cost
The total closet cost depends on the size of the closet, which design tier you choose, contractor fees, and the addition of custom accessories and details. Prices start at $1,000 for a Level 1 6-foot closet. A Level 4 closet starts at $11,000 for a 6-foot closet.
Contractor and Installation Fees
If you have a closet system already in place, it will need to be removed. A contractor and a handyman charge per hour for labor. Removing the old system often causes drywall damage, which will also require repairs before the new closet can be installed. A drywall repair serviceman will charge an hourly fee for labor, as well as fees for materials.
Typical handyman prices are between $60-$70 per hour for an independent handyman or up to $125 an hour for a handyman that works with a company. Drywall contractors charge between $50-$100 per hour.
It is possible to remove the old closet system yourself and perform repairs on your own. If you have the time and the skills, doing it yourself is a potential money saver.
Closet Cost Per Linear Foot
Depending on the level of the closet, the price per linear foot will vary. Just what is a linear foot? A linear foot is a one-dimensional measurement. If you are measuring in linear feet, you are measuring straight lines. This makes sense for closet construction because you will need to account for all the measurements within the closet, instead of just the floor or wall area.
| Closet Level | Cost per Linear Foot | Starting Cost (6-foot closet) |
| Level 1 | $175-$350 | $1,000 |
| Level 2 | $500-$700 | $3,000 |
| Level 3 | $850-$1,500 | $5,000 |
| Level 4 | $1,800+ | $11,000 |
Who’s Using the Closet?
Consider your options before you start the closet process. Is it a master closet that gets a lot of use? If so, a custom closet may be well worth the investment. Storage and organization can increase your quality of life and save valuable time.
On the other hand, if it is a guest room closet that doesn’t get much use, a basic, standard closet system, like the kind you can find at Lowe’s or Home Depot will probably get the job done. You can save money for other home projects.
A closet in a kid’s room may be worth the extra investment as well. Evaluate their closet needs in the years to come, though. If you install all low shelving and hanging units, will that design grow with your child, or will you need to change it in a few years? If you need to make frequent changes to the closet, you may want to choose an inexpensive option that is easy to change.
California Closets also designs storage solutions for pantries, bathrooms, laundry rooms, entertainment areas, home libraries, and anywhere else that needs organization.
What Are the Advantages and Disadvantages of California Closets?
California Closets is a high-end, custom closet design service. There are advantages and disadvantages to purchasing a service like this.
California Closet Design Advantages
California Closet takes a lot of guesswork out of the design process. They will send a contractor to your home to take measurements and pictures. From that, they come up with a detailed, three-dimensional design.
From there, the closet components are ordered. Once they arrive, a professional installation expert installs the pieces in your closet. Typically, this is a quick process.
There are different price tiers, so California is accessible to different budget levels. With a custom closet, you can pick and choose exactly which features and accessories you want for your lifestyle.
California Closets has high levels of customer satisfaction. As with any product or service, check reviews before you purchase.
California Closet Design Disadvantages
California Closets can be an expensive closet solution, depending on which option you pick. The Luxury Refined Line costs around $11,000 for a 6-foot closet. Additionally, you will have to pay a contractor to remove the old closet and prepare the space for installation.
Additionally, since the closets are custom-made to order, they take time to produce. This can be a long process, depending on the closet.
Final Thoughts
California Closets have a reputation for excellence and multiple locations. However, custom, designer closets come with a designer price tag. Expect to pay at least $1,000 for a basic closet from California Closets, and $11,000, or more if you choose the Level 4 closet.
If you are looking for a custom closet with designer touches, and the look of high-end furniture, California Closets may be the system for you!
