Hey there, fellow fashion lovers! It‘s your girl Jenna, back with another deep dive into a brand that‘s been making waves in the world of custom storage. Today, we‘re talking all about California Closets, the OG of personalized closet systems. As a fashionista and organizing enthusiast, I‘ve had my eye on this company for years, and I‘m excited to share my honest thoughts and experiences with you.
In this comprehensive review, we‘ll cover everything you need to know about California Closets, from their design process and product offerings to customer reviews and expert opinions. I‘ll also be sharing my own firsthand experience with the brand and some tips for creating your dream closet space. So grab a coffee, get cozy, and let‘s dive in!
What is California Closets?
For those who may be new to the custom closet scene, let me give you a little background on California Closets. This company has been around since 1978, when they pioneered the concept of personalized storage solutions. Over the past four decades, they‘ve grown into a bonafide empire, with over 150 showrooms across North America and a team of expert designers and installers.
California Closets specializes in creating custom closet systems tailored to each client‘s unique needs and style preferences. They offer a wide range of products, from simple reach-in closets to lavish walk-in dressing rooms, as well as storage solutions for other areas of the home like pantries, home offices, and garages.
What sets California Closets apart from other closet companies is their commitment to quality, innovation, and customer service. They use only the finest materials, from premium wood finishes to designer hardware, and their proprietary CAD software ensures a perfect fit for every space. Plus, their team of design consultants and professional installers work closely with each client to bring their vision to life and ensure a stress-free experience from start to finish.
The Design Process
One of the things I love most about California Closets is their highly personalized approach to design. It all starts with a free in-home consultation, where a design expert comes to your space to take measurements, assess your needs, and discuss your style preferences. This one-on-one attention is key to creating a closet that truly reflects your personality and fits your lifestyle.
During the consultation, your designer will ask about your wardrobe, your daily routine, and any specific storage challenges you face. They‘ll also show you samples of different finishes, hardware options, and accessories to help you visualize the possibilities. I was blown away by the range of choices available – from sleek, modern aluminum to rich, textured woodgrains, there‘s truly something for every taste.
After the consultation, your designer will create a custom 3D model of your new closet using California Closets‘ proprietary CAD software. This allows you to see exactly how your space will look and make any tweaks or adjustments before finalizing the design. I loved being able to explore different layouts and configurations in real-time and get a true sense of how my new closet would function.
Once you‘ve approved the design, your custom closet components will be manufactured in one of California Closets‘ state-of-the-art production facilities and shipped to your home for installation. The whole process typically takes around 4-6 weeks from consultation to completion, depending on the complexity of your project.
Product Offerings
One of the biggest selling points of California Closets is their extensive product selection. No matter what your storage needs or style preferences, they have options to suit every space and budget. Here‘s a quick overview of some of their most popular offerings:
Custom Closet Systems
- Reach-in closets
- Walk-in closets
- Wardrobes
- Dressing rooms
- Kids‘ closets
Closet Accessories
- Drawer and shelf dividers
- Jewelry trays
- Tie and belt racks
- Valet rods
- Hampers
- Shoe storage
Other Storage Solutions
- Pantries
- Home offices
- Murphy beds
- Garages
- Media centers
- Entryways
- Laundry rooms
California Closets also offers a range of premium materials and finishes to choose from, including:
- Classic: A laminated composite wood in a variety of colors and textures
- Lago® Italian-inspired wood finishes
- Virtuoso: Handcrafted wood built to the highest level of quality
- Aluminum: For a sleek, modern look
- Gloss: High-shine acrylic panels
- Supermatte: A smooth, low-sheen acrylic finish
- Textile: Woven fabric inserts for a softer touch
- Everstyle™️ Drawers: Made from solid birch and dovetail construction
- Leather: For a luxurious, high-end feel
- Back-painted glass: Adds a pop of color or contrast
With so many options to choose from, it‘s easy to create a closet that feels uniquely yours. Whether you‘re going for a classic, timeless look or a bold, modern statement, California Closets has the products and expertise to bring your vision to life.
Pricing
Now, I know what you‘re thinking: "This all sounds great, Jenna, but what‘s it going to cost me?" And I get it – custom closets can be a significant investment. But here‘s the thing: investing in a well-designed, high-quality storage system can actually save you money in the long run by helping you maximize your space, reduce clutter, and take better care of your belongings.
That said, California Closets does offer a range of pricing options to fit different budgets and needs. While exact quotes will depend on the size and complexity of your project, here‘s a general breakdown of their pricing tiers:
- Classic: Starts at $1,000-$3,000 for a 6-foot reach-in closet
- Lux: Starts at $3,000-$5,000 for a 6-foot reach-in closet
- Virtuoso: Starts at $5,000-$12,000 for a 10-foot walk-in closet
- Couture: Starts at $12,000-$30,000+ for a 12-foot walk-in closet
Keep in mind that these are just rough estimates, and your actual cost will depend on factors like the size of your space, the materials and finishes you choose, and any additional features or accessories you add on. California Closets also offers financing options through GreenSky to help make your dream closet more attainable.
In my opinion, the value you get with California Closets is well worth the investment. Not only are you getting a custom-designed, high-quality product that will last for years to come, but you‘re also getting the expert guidance and white-glove service that comes with working with a professional design team. Plus, a well-organized closet can seriously improve your daily life and make getting dressed in the morning a breeze – and that‘s priceless.
Customer Reviews and Testimonials
But don‘t just take my word for it – let‘s see what other customers have to say about their experience with California Closets. I scoured the web for reviews and testimonials, and the overwhelming majority were glowingly positive. Here are a few highlights:
"I cannot say enough good things about California Closets! From the initial consultation to the final installation, every step of the process was seamless and stress-free. My designer really listened to my needs and came up with a beautiful, functional design that has completely transformed my closet. The quality of the materials is top-notch, and the attention to detail is impressive. I never thought I could love a closet so much, but now I find myself just standing in there admiring it all the time. Worth every penny!" – Rachel S., San Francisco, CA
"We recently downsized to a smaller home, and I was really worried about fitting all of my clothes and accessories into a much smaller closet. But California Closets worked their magic and created a storage solution that maximized every inch of space. I was blown away by how much they were able to fit in there, and how easy it is to find everything now. The best part is, the closet still feels spacious and uncluttered. It‘s like they performed a magic trick!" – John D., Denver, CO
"I had been dreaming of a custom closet for years, but I was always intimidated by the process and the cost. But working with California Closets was a dream come true. My designer was so friendly and patient, and really helped me navigate all of the options to create a closet that fit my style and budget. The installation process was quick and painless, and the final result exceeded my expectations. I feel like I‘m walking into a high-end boutique every time I open my closet doors. I only wish I had done it sooner!" – Lisa M., Chicago, IL
Of course, no company is perfect, and I did find a few negative reviews here and there. Most of the complaints seemed to revolve around issues with communication or delays in the installation process. However, these were definitely the exception rather than the rule, and it seems like California Closets makes a concerted effort to address any issues and ensure customer satisfaction.
Expert Opinions and Industry Awards
In addition to customer reviews, I also wanted to see what the experts had to say about California Closets. And let me tell you, this company has racked up some serious accolades over the years. Here are just a few of the awards and recognitions they‘ve received:
- "Best of Houzz" Design Award (2014-2022)
- National Association of Home Builders "Best in American Living" Award (2020)
- Closets Daily "Top Shelf Design Awards" Winner (2019)
- International Design Guild "Designer of the Year" Award (2018)
- Forbes "Best Professional Organizers in the US" (2017)
Clearly, California Closets is a leader in the custom storage industry, and their reputation for quality and innovation is well-established. But don‘t just take it from me – here are some expert opinions on what makes this company stand out:
"California Closets has been a pioneer in the custom closet industry for decades, and their commitment to quality and customer service is unparalleled. Their use of premium materials and innovative design technologies sets them apart from other closet companies, and their team of expert designers and installers ensures a seamless experience from start to finish." – Rachel Rosenthal, professional organizer and founder of Rachel and Company
"What I love about California Closets is their ability to create storage solutions that are both functional and beautiful. They really understand the importance of maximizing space while also incorporating personal style and aesthetics. Their attention to detail and craftsmanship is evident in every project they undertake, and their collaborative approach to design ensures that each client gets a closet that truly reflects their unique needs and preferences." – Emily Henderson, interior designer and HGTV host
"California Closets has been a go-to resource for my clients for years. Not only do they offer an incredible range of products and finishes to choose from, but their design process is truly tailored to each individual client. They take the time to really understand how you use your space and what your pain points are, and then create a solution that addresses those specific challenges. The end result is a closet that not only looks amazing but also functions beautifully and makes your daily life easier." – Marie Kondo, organizing consultant and author of "The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up"
My Personal Experience
Now, I know you‘re probably wondering: "Jenna, have you actually used California Closets yourself?" And the answer is a resounding yes! I recently moved into a new apartment with a seriously tiny closet, and I knew I needed to call in the big guns to make it work for my extensive wardrobe.
From the moment I met with my design consultant, Alicia, I knew I was in good hands. She asked all the right questions about my style, my storage needs, and my budget, and really took the time to understand my vision for the space. She also had some great suggestions for maximizing storage and incorporating some of my favorite design elements, like a pop of color on the back wall and some chic brass hardware.
When Alicia showed me the 3D rendering of my new closet, I was blown away. It was like she had read my mind and created the closet of my dreams. The layout was so intuitive and well-organized, with a place for everything from my shoes to my handbags to my extensive collection of vintage dresses.
On installation day, the California Closets team arrived right on schedule and got to work. They were so professional and efficient, and they paid such close attention to every little detail. They even helped me transfer my clothes and accessories into the new closet and gave me some tips for maintaining the system over time.
The final result was even better than I could have imagined. The closet felt so spacious and organized, and it was a joy to get dressed in the morning. I loved the mix of classic white cabinets with the fun teal back wall and the sleek brass pulls. It felt like a boutique in my own home, and I found myself spending way too much time just admiring it from every angle.
Since my California Closets installation, I‘ve been singing the company‘s praises to anyone who will listen. I‘ve had friends and family members come over just to ooh and ahh over my closet, and I‘ve even caught my boyfriend sneaking in there to borrow a tie or two. It‘s truly been a game-changer for my daily routine and my overall sense of organization and calm.
Tips for Creating Your Dream Closet
If you‘re considering investing in a custom closet system from California Closets or another company, here are a few tips to keep in mind:
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Start with a clear vision: Before you even meet with a designer, take some time to think about your dream closet. Browse Pinterest and Instagram for inspiration, and make a list of must-have features and nice-to-haves. The more specific you can be about your needs and preferences, the better your designer can tailor a solution for you.
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Be honest about your budget: Custom closets can be a significant investment, so it‘s important to have a realistic budget in mind from the start. Don‘t be afraid to discuss your budget with your designer, as they can help you find ways to maximize your space and style while staying within your means.
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Consider your lifestyle: Your closet should be designed to fit your unique lifestyle and needs. Think about how you use your space on a daily basis, and what kind of storage solutions would make your life easier. If you have a lot of shoes, for example, you might want to prioritize shoe storage over hanging space.
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Don‘t forget the details: The small details can make a big difference in the overall look and feel of your closet. Consider things like hardware finishes, lighting options, and decorative touches like wallpaper or accent colors. These elements can help personalize your space and make it feel like a true reflection of your style.
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Trust the experts: Finally, remember that you‘re working with a team of professionals who have years of experience designing and installing custom closets. Trust their expertise and be open to their suggestions and ideas. They might just surprise you with a solution you never would have thought of on your own.
Final Thoughts
Whew, we covered a lot of ground in this review! But I hope I‘ve given you a comprehensive look at what California Closets has to offer and why I think they‘re a fantastic choice for anyone looking to upgrade their storage game.
From their personalized design process and premium materials to their expert installation and top-notch customer service, California Closets really does set the standard for custom closet systems. And while they may be a bit of an investment, I truly believe that the value and functionality they provide is worth every penny.
Of course, everyone‘s needs and preferences are different, and what works for me might not be the right fit for you. But if you‘re looking for a high-quality, custom storage solution that will transform your space and make your daily life easier, I highly recommend giving California Closets a try.
And if you do end up working with them, I‘d love to hear about your experience! Feel free to reach out to me on social media or leave a comment below. Let‘s keep the conversation going and share our love for all things organization and design.
Until next time, happy closet dreaming!
XOXO,
Jenna
