If you’re looking to organize your closet with a modular system, two of the most popular brands to consider are ClosetMaid and Suite Symphony.
Both ClosetMaid’s Impressions and Suite Symphony’s systems offer modular components that can be arranged in different configurations to customize your closet’s layout. But how do you decide which one is the best option for your needs and budget?
I’ve taken an in-depth look at the key features and differences between the Impressions and Suite Symphony systems to help you determine the right choice for your closet. Here’s an overview of what I’ll cover:
- Summary of Impressions and Suite Symphony Features
- Layout Options and Configurability
- Storage Components and Accessories
- Quality and Durability
- Cost Comparison
- Ease of Installation
- Style and Design Options
- Pros and Cons of Each System
By the end of this comparison, you’ll have a clear sense of which system offers the right mix of customization, storage, style, and affordability for your unique closet storage needs. Let’s dive in!
A Brief Comparison Table
| Feature | Impressions | Suite Symphony |
| Materials | Melamine and steel | Steel, wood, glass, acrylic |
| Customization | Adjustable shelves, rods, drawers | Fully customizable sizes and layout |
| Storage Options | Shelves, rods, drawers | Shelves, drawers, specialty accessories |
| Weight Capacity | 100 lbs per shelf | Up to 175 lbs per shelf |
| Cost | $120-$300 for standard closet | $900-$2500+ installed |
| Installation | DIY | Professional recommended |
| Style | 5 neutral finishes | 40+ finishes, glass/metal for contemporary look |
| Warranty | 10-year limited | Limited lifetime |
Key Takeaways:
- Impressions offers an affordable DIY system with melamine components and basic storage options
- Symphony provides ultimate customization with premium materials, higher weight capacity, and more storage add-ons
- Impressions has subtle styling while Symphony makes a bold style statement
- Symphony costs significantly more, especially with professional installation
At a Glance: Impressions vs Suite Symphony
To start, here’s a quick overview of the essential features of the Impressions and Suite Symphony closet systems:
ClosetMaid Impressions
- Modular melamine closet system
- Adjustable shelves, drawers, rods, and hardware
- 5 finish options: white, cappuccino, gray, black, and white woodgrain
- DIY installation with included hardware
- 10-year limited warranty
Suite Symphony
- Modular steel closet system
- Fully customizable modular components
- Glass, solid steel, and wood finish options
- Professional installation recommended
- Limited lifetime warranty
Key Differences Between ClosetMaid Impressions And Suite Symphony Closet Systems
Now let’s look at each system in more detail.
- Layout Options and Configurability
A key factor in choosing a modular closet system is determining how much flexibility you need to configure the layout. Both Impressions and Suite Symphony offer modular components, but Suite Symphony provides greater customization options.
The Impressions system has an adjustable design with shelving, drawer and hanging rod components that can be arranged in multiple configurations. The vertical panels have holes every 1.5 inches for adjustable shelf heights.
Impressions offers corner units, a bridge unit for spanning two closets, and adjustable drawers.
Suite Symphony also has fully adjustable components but with more customization in terms of widths, depths, finishes and accessories. The steel frames have holes every 1 inch for ultimate adjustability.
Each component is available in custom sizes ranging from 12 to 96 inches wide. This level of customization allows you to truly design your own dream closet layout.
If you have an unusually shaped closet or want to maximize every inch of space, Suite Symphony will provide the most flexibility. Impressions offers ample adjustability for most standard reach-in closets.
- Storage Components and Accessories
The variety of storage components and accessories also differ between the systems.
Impressions includes all of the essentials like shelves, drawers, rods, and baskets, while Suite Symphony expands into more specialty options.
Impressions features durable melamine shelves in various widths and depths, round hanging rods, and fabric drawers.
Accessory options include drawer organizers, chrome baskets, and shoe racks.
The components give you flexibility to add shelves, rods, or drawers wherever needed.
Suite Symphony offers those same components but with more material choices like glass, wood, metal and acrylic. The system includes adjustable steel shelving and drawers, round or straight hanging rods, and accessory options like jewelry trays, belt racks, tie racks and shoe shelves.
The wider range of specialty accessories enables very customized storage solutions.
If maximizing your storage options with space for folded clothes, hanging clothes, shoes, accessories and more is your top priority, Suite Symphony will provide more built-in storage customization. Impressions still offers practical adjustable components for versatile storage.
- Quality and Durability
An important consideration for any closet system is how well it will hold up over years of use. Both systems are designed for durability, but the materials and construction differ.
The Impressions system is constructed from engineered wood melamine panels with adjustable steel hardware. Melamine is moisture-resistant and more durable than particle board.
The steel hanging rods and shelf supports add strength and stability. Impressions has a weight capacity of up to 100 lbs per shelf. Most customers report Impressions withstanding years of use without issue.
Suite Symphony uses steel frames combined with panels and shelves made from materials like wood, glass and acrylic. The all-steel construction makes Symphony extremely sturdy and able to hold more weight per shelf.
The glass shelves can accommodate up to 175 lbs per panel. The mix of materials gives Symphony a more high-end, luxury feel than Impressions.
Both systems should provide lasting storage solutions. Impressions offers reliable quality at an affordable price point, while Symphony delivers heavy-duty durability.
- Cost Comparison
One of the biggest differences between the systems is the cost. Impressions is sold at all ClosetMaid retailers, like Home Depot and Lowe’s, with individual components priced affordably for DIY installation.
Suite Symphony is sold through specialty retailers and has a higher price point, especially with professional installation.
Here’s an overview of average costs:
ClosetMaid Impressions
- Shelves: $14-$25 each
- Rods: $8-$20 each
- Drawers: $25-$50 each
- Standard reach-in kit: $120-$300
Suite Symphony
- Shelves: $60-$150 each
- Rods: $40-$80 each
- Drawers: $90-$250 each
- Standard reach-in system: $900-$2500+ installed
The total cost for your system will vary based on closet size, layout, materials and accessories.
But you can expect to pay at least 2-3 times more for a Suite Symphony system compared to Impressions.
Make sure to account for professional installation costs if going with Symphony.
If budget is a top factor, Impressions provides the most value and lowest entry cost for a modular closet. Suite Symphony offers luxury quality and customization at a premium price.
- Ease of Installation
Installing your modular closet system takes some work, so it’s helpful to understand what’s involved with each system before purchasing.
Impressions is designed as a DIY system with installation instructions included. The components attach using adjustable clips, tracks and rods that click together without needing tools.
Melamine panels cut easily to size with a circular saw. Installation takes 2-3 hours for a standard reach-in closet, depending on skill level.
Suite Symphony typically requires professional installation due to the specialty materials and intricate framing system. Experienced installers assemble the steel frames, precisely cut panels and shelves, and attach components securely.
Hiring a professional ensures proper installation and allows you to enjoy your customized closet without the hassle.
If taking on a DIY project sounds appealing, Impressions will be the simplest system to self-install. Suite Symphony requires more expertise for ideal results, so professional installation is recommended.
- Style and Design Options
The aesthetics of your new closet system also deserve consideration. Both Impressions and Symphony allow you to add style with your choice of finishes and accessories.
Impressions is available in five neutral, subtle finishes: white, cappuccino, gray, black and a white woodgrain pattern. The clean lines and minimalist melamine panels blend in quietly with almost any decor. Accessories provide opportunities to coordinate with your color scheme.
Suite Symphony makes a bolder style statement with striking steel frames plus premium finishes like glass, solid wood, quilted fabrics and more. The glass and metal components give Symphony a sleek, contemporary look.
The system offers over 40 finish options including woods, laminates, powders and colors so you can match your unique taste.
If you want your closet to disappear visually into the background, Impressions provides a more discreet neutral style. To amp up the drama and sophistication of your closet, Suite Symphony delivers with its array of polished finishes and textures.
Pros and Cons of Each System
To summarize the key benefits and downsides of the ClosetMaid Impressions and Suite Symphony systems:
Impressions Pros
- More affordable price point
- DIY installation
- Adjustable modular design
- Attractive, subtle style finishes
Impressions Cons
- Less customizable than Symphony
- Maximum shelf weight capacity of 100 lbs
Suite Symphony Pros
- Fully customized sizing and layout
- Premium materials like wood, steel and glass
- Chic, contemporary visual style
- Highly durable steel frame construction
Suite Symphony Cons
- Significantly higher cost, especially with professional install
- Limitations for DIY installation
- Contemporary look may not suit all decors
Neither system is universally better – it comes down to your budget, desired features, and style preferences. If cost is the deciding factor, Impressions provides sturdy modular storage at a reasonable price you can install yourself. For unmatched customization and luxury quality, Suite Symphony is worth the investment.
Which System Is The Right Choice?
When selecting between Impressions or Suite Symphony, keep the following guidance in mind:
- If you want a flexible DIY system on a budget, Impressions is the practical choice
- If customized storage and high-end style are necessities, pick Suite Symphony
- Impressions suits standard reach-in closets with its adjustable modular components
- Suite Symphony is ideal for walk-in closets or uniquely shaped storage
- Impressions blends in nicely for low-key, neutral style
- Symphony makes a dramatic style statement with upscale finishes
Final Thoughts
Take time to measure your closet space, assess your budget and storage needs, and determine the look you want before deciding. This ensures you select the optimal system to organize your closet.
Both ClosetMaid Impressions and Suite Symphony provide excellent modular storage options that transform cluttered closets into organized sanctuaries. Carefully weigh the pros and cons of each against your personal priorities.
The system that fits both your functional needs and stylistic vision will create a custom closet you’ll absolutely love.
Hopefully this detailed comparison gives you confidence to select either Impressions or Suite Symphony to craft your ideal closet layout. Whichever system you choose, you can look forward to years of organized storage bliss!