What Closets By Design Does
Closets By Design is a franchise that designs and installs custom closet systems — shelving, rods, drawers, and accessories built to fit your specific space and needs. The company sends a designer to your home, measures your closet, discusses how you use the space, and creates a layout. If you decide to move forward, their installers come back and build the system, usually in a single day.
This is different from buying a prefab shelving unit at a big-box store. The systems are built to your exact dimensions and can wrap around corners, fit sloped ceilings, or work around existing fixtures. You're paying for custom design and installation labor, not just materials.
Key Takeaways
- Closets By Design charges for an in-home design consultation, though the fee is often credited toward your purchase if you move forward.
- The company measures your space, discusses your storage needs, and creates a custom layout before you commit to anything.
- Installation typically happens in one day, and the systems are built from wood or laminate materials that mount to your walls.
- You can customize the layout later if your needs change, though modifications may involve additional costs.
- Other options include local custom closet builders, IKEA PAX systems, or wire shelving — each with different price points and installation requirements.
How the Design Consultation Works
You contact Closets By Design through their website or phone number and schedule a free or paid in-home consultation. A designer visits your home, measures the closet, and asks questions about what you store, how you organize it, and what frustrates you about the current setup. They may take photos or use a tablet to show you design options in real time.
The designer then creates a layout showing shelves, rods, drawers, and accessories positioned in your space. You see the design before installation is scheduled, so you can request changes — moving a shelf higher, adding more hanging space, adjusting drawer depth — without obligation. Many locations credit the consultation fee toward your final bill if you proceed.
Materials and Installation Timeline
Closets By Design systems are typically made from laminate or solid wood, with metal rods and hardware. The materials are durable but not as heavy-duty as commercial shelving. Costs vary widely depending on closet size, materials chosen, and complexity of the design — a small reach-in closet costs less than a walk-in or a master bedroom closet with multiple sections.
Installation usually takes one day. Installers arrive with pre-cut components and hardware, mount the system to your walls, and find everything. You'll need to clear the closet beforehand. After installation, you can begin using the closet when ready, though the company may recommend waiting a few hours if adhesive or finish was applied.
What Happens If You Want to Change the Layout Later
Closets By Design systems are modular, so components can be moved or replaced. If you want to add a shelf, remove a drawer, or shift the rod position, you can contact the company to discuss modifications. Some changes are straightforward and may be done during a service call; others require partial or full reinstallation and will involve additional labor costs.
The company typically offers a warranty on materials and workmanship, though terms vary by location and franchise. Read your contract to understand what's covered and for how long. If a shelf sags or hardware fails within the warranty period, the company should address it at no cost.
How Closets By Design Compares to Other Options
If you want a custom system but are weighing your choices, here's what else is available. Local custom closet builders often charge similar prices and offer comparable quality — the advantage is that you're working with a single business rather than a franchise, which can mean more flexibility. IKEA's PAX wardrobe system is much cheaper and can be customized with different doors, shelves, and accessories, but you assemble it yourself or hire a handyman, and it's limited to IKEA's component sizes. Wire shelving and hanging organizers from hardware stores cost the least but offer no custom fit and are less durable over time.
| Option | Cost Range | Installation | Customization |
|---|---|---|---|
| Closets By Design | Mid to high | Professional, one day | Built to your exact space |
| Local custom builder | Mid to high | Professional, varies | Built to your exact space |
| IKEA PAX | Low to mid | Self-assembly or hired help | Limited to IKEA components |
| Wire shelving | Low | DIY or handyman | Adjustable but not custom-fit |
Questions to Ask Before You Commit
Before scheduling a consultation or signing a contract, clarify a few things. Ask whether the consultation fee is refundable or credited toward your purchase. Confirm the timeline — how long from design approval to installation, and whether they can work around your schedule. Ask what happens if you're unhappy with the design or installation, and what the return or modification policy is.
Also ask about the warranty and what it covers. Some companies warrant the materials and installation labor for a year; others offer longer coverage. If you're renting, ask whether the system can be removed without damaging the walls, or whether your landlord's permission is required. Finally, ask for references or photos of completed closets similar to yours so you can see the quality of their work.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I have to pay for the design consultation?
Many Closets By Design locations offer free consultations, but some charge a fee — usually $50 to $200. If you're charged, ask whether the fee is credited toward your purchase if you move forward. This is a common practice and worth confirming upfront.
Can Closets By Design work with a closet that has an odd shape or sloped ceiling?
Yes. Custom design is the whole point — the system is built to fit your specific space, including angled walls, sloped ceilings, or irregular dimensions. This is one reason custom systems cost more than prefab shelving, but it also means the space is used efficiently.
What if I move and want to take the closet system with me?
Most Closets By Design systems are mounted to the walls and are not designed to be removed and reinstalled elsewhere. If you move, the system typically stays with the house. Ask about this before you purchase if you think you might relocate soon.
How long does the installation take?
Installation usually takes one day, typically four to eight hours depending on the size and complexity of the closet. You should clear the closet beforehand so installers have room to work. After installation, the closet is ready to use when ready.
Can I modify the system after installation if my needs change?
Yes, but modifications may cost extra. straightforward changes like moving a shelf or adding a drawer might be done during a service call. Larger changes may require partial reinstallation and additional labor charges. Contact your local franchise to discuss what's possible and what it would cost.