If you’re looking to overhaul your closet and get organized, Elfa is likely on your radar. As a leading brand in closet storage and organization, Elfa offers two main closet systems – the Elfa Classic and the Elfa Decor.
Both provide customizable storage using mix-and-match components but have some key differences.
In this article, we’ll dive into the pros, cons, features and FAQs around Elfa Classic and Elfa Decor so you can determine which is the best Elfa closet system for your needs and style.
A Brief Comparison Table
| Feature | Elfa Classic | Elfa Decor |
| Materials | Laminated composite wood | Solid wood |
| Finishes | White, gray, espresso laminate | White, driftwood, maple, custom stain matching |
| Design | Modular wire and shelf system | Integrated furniture-style system |
| Accessories | Wide range of storage accessories | More built-in, matching accessories |
| Installation | DIY | Professional required |
| Price | Budget-friendly, lower cost | Premium, higher cost |
| Ideal User | DIYers, budget shoppers, renters | Homeowners wanting custom look, quality materials |
Overview of Elfa Classic
The Elfa Classic system is the original Elfa product that put them on the map. It features a simple, versatile design that has been popular for decades and continues to be their best-selling line.
Some notable features of Elfa Classic:
- Available in white, gray and wood laminate finishes to match any decor
- Modular components like shelves, drawers, rods and accessories that can be mixed and matched
- Shelves can be custom-cut to fit your space
- Furniture-quality materials made of a laminated composite wood
- Easy DIY installation with optional professional installation services
The white finish has a sleek, clean look, while the wood laminate provides a more traditional warmth.
The gray is a nice in-between option with a modern vibe.
The Classic line strikes a balance of function and aesthetics. It provides quality materials and durability while keeping the overall look streamlined. The neutral finishes blend seamlessly into any bedroom or closet.
Overview of Elfa Decor
Elfa Decor launched in 2013 as a more upscale, furniture-inspired system than the Classic line. Key features of Decor include:
- Solid wood materials offered in various finishes like maple, espresso, white and driftwood
- Decorative trim, crown molding and baseboard included
- Pull-out drawers, integrated hampers, specialty racks and other built-in options
- Matching freestanding dressers, shoe racks, jewelry armoires and other accessories
- Professional installation required
The solid wood materials and details like molding give the Decor line a true custom closet or furniture feel. The finishes provide a range of looks from clean and contemporary to warm and traditional. Integrated drawer bases keep contents tidy and concealed.
While still modular, the Decor system aims for a more built-in, seamless look rather than the industrial wire racks that are the hallmark of the Classic line. The accessories allow you to coordinate your entire closet and bedroom.
Key Differences Between Elfa Classic And Décor Closet Systems
Now that we’ve outlined their main features, let’s compare some of the key differences between Elfa Classic and Decor:
- Materials – Classic uses a laminated composite while Decor is made of solid wood. Decor has a more premium look and feel.
- Finishes – Classic offers white, gray and espresso/wood laminates only. Decor has added driftwood and maple options plus custom stain matching. Decor has more variety.
- Design – Classic has an efficient, customizable wire and shelf design. Decor aims for an integrated furniture-like look.
- Accessories – Both feature a wide range of accessories like drawers, shoe racks and hanging rods. Decor accessories are more built-in and matching.
- Installation – Classic can easily be installed yourself. Decor requires professional installation.
- Price – Decor has a higher price point due to its solid wood materials and construction.
- Ideal user – Classic appeals to DIYers wanting an affordable, versatile system. Decor is ideal for those wanting a custom look and willing to make a higher investment.
As you can see, Decor takes the Elfa storage system to the next level with its materials, finishes and accessories while Classic provides practical, customizable and budget-friendly closet storage. Choosing between them depends on your needs, style and budget.
Pros of the Elfa Classic System
Let’s explore the key benefits that make Elfa Classic a top choice for many homeowners:
- Affordable and budget-friendly – Elfa Classic is the most affordable Elfa system. With regular sales and specials, it can fit more budgets than the higher-priced Decor line.
- Efficient, modular design – The streamlined wire shelves, rods and drawers can be completely customized to your space. The modular mix-and-match components make it easy to reconfigure your closet as needs change.
- Easy DIY installation – With basic skills, Classic can easily be installed without professional help using the provided fasteners and wires. This saves on installation costs.
- Quality materials and durability – While more budget-friendly, Classic still provides furniture-grade wood laminate shelves that are moisture-resistant and can hold up to 175 pounds each. The anodized steel wire frame is very sturdy.
- Design flexibility – With 3 neutral finishes and a wide range of accessories like drawers, shoe racks and specialty storage, Classic can adapt to any closet design, large or small.
For those wanting an organized closet without a luxury price tag or built-ins, Elfa Classic provides quality and customization at an affordable price point.
Pros of the Elfa Decor System
What makes the higher-end Elfa Decor system worth the investment for many homeowners?
- Premium solid wood materials – The solid wood shelves, trim and accessories have a true furniture feel and look that elevates your whole closet. The quality is evident.
- Beautiful finish options – Unique finishes like driftwood and maple provide warmth and detail beyond basic white. Custom stain matching your existing woodwork is also available.
- Furniture-design details – Decorative trim, crown molding, integrated hampers and pull-out drawers give Decor a built-in, bespoke furniture aesthetic.
- Coordinated accessories – The matching freestanding drawer units, jewelry armoires, shoe racks and other accessories let you coordinate your entire bedroom in one stylish system.
- Professional installation – Decor’s built-in construction and finishes are best left to Elfa’s professional installers who will ensure proper installation.
For those desiring a high-end, custom closet look worthy of a magazine spread, Elfa Decor delivers with its quality materials, beautiful finishes and decorative details.
Ideal Users for Each System
Now that we’ve covered the features and pros of each system, who is each better suited for?
Elfa Classic ideal users:
- Homeowners on a budget wanting an organized closet at the best price
- Renters unable to do permanent built-in closet systems
- Those with basic DIY skills that can install themselves
- Homeowners with changing storage needs who want flexibility
- Those desiring a streamlined, contemporary closet aesthetic
- People who move frequently and want portable storage they can take with them
Elfa Decor ideal users:
- Homeowners wanting a custom, built-in closet look
- Those with a fixed closet storage design that won’t need modification
- Homeowners without budget constraints for a premium system
- Those who appreciate fine furniture and quality materials
- People who want their closet to function as a beautiful furniture piece
- Homeowners who want to coordinate their entire bedroom into one stylish system
While the Classic system is more accessible for the average homeowner, Decor delivers a luxury closet for those with the desire and budget to invest in their space. Know your needs, style and budget to choose what’s best for you.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Still have some questions about which Elfa system is best for you? Here are answers to some frequently asked questions:
Elfa Classic and Decor systems go on sale several times throughout the year, especially around holidays. Elfa’s biggest sales are usually in January, July and December. Signing up for Elfa emails is the best way to learn about upcoming sales and special offers.
Yes, the solid wood Decor shelves can be cut to size to better fit your space, just like the Classic system shelves. Make sure to account for supports when cutting shelves down.
ClosetMaid and Elfa make similar DIY modular and custom closet systems. However, their parts are not interchangeable. Once you choose a brand, you need to stick with it for any add-ons or replacements.
Some other popular closet systems comparable to Elfa include: ClosetMaid, Rubbermaid Closet System, EasyClosets, Seville Classics, IKEA Algot System, etc.
While none are identical, these all provide modular, customizable closet storage options similar to Elfa.
Final Thoughts
As you can see, Elfa Classic and Elfa Decor cater to different needs but both offer quality materials and customizable, functional closet storage.
The affordable Elfa Classic system gives you versatility and quality on a budget via DIY installation. Elfa Decor provides a fully customized, built-in look with premium solid wood construction and professional installation required.
Think about your budget, style, skill level and storage needs. Measure your space carefully too. This will help determine if the more affordable Elfa Classic or customizable luxury of Elfa Decor is the best Elfa closet system for you.
Whichever you choose, you can feel confident you’ll end up with an organized closet that makes the best use of your space and suits your personal taste. Investing in closet organization pays dividends in reduced stress and added functionality.