Planning guide · Custom furniture
How to plan custom furniture
Custom furniture is made around your space and habits, so the more clearly you can describe both, the easier it is to develop a design that works. A sketch, a photo or even a feeling is a good starting point. Use this guide to gather the details that turn an idea into a practical brief.
01
Measure the space and its surroundings
Approximate dimensions are enough for a first conversation; a precise site measure follows. Note the width, depth and height available, and anything that interrupts the space.
- Wall lengths, ceiling height and floor-to-window heights
- Doors, windows, radiators, vents and skirting
- Outlets, switches and existing light fittings
- Clearances needed to walk past or open doors and drawers
02
Describe everyday use and storage needs
Think about how the piece will be used each day rather than only how it should look. A dining table needs a clear sense of how many people sit around it; a vanity or kitchen island needs a list of what it should hold.
Make an honest inventory of what you want to store, from books and media to linens, cookware or work equipment, and note which items you reach for often.
03
Collect inspiration
Save images of pieces, rooms, shapes and details you like, and note what draws you to each one. It might be a curved edge, a stone top, a slim profile or a warm timber tone. Images of things you do not like are useful too.
04
Review finish and hardware samples
Stone, timber, metal and upholstery each change with light and touch. Review samples in the room where the piece will live, beside your flooring and wall finishes. Handles, hinges and other hardware affect both the look and the feel of daily use, so consider them alongside the main materials.
05
Coordinate power and lighting
Built-in pieces often need to work with electrical points. Mention early if you want charging points, integrated shelf or cabinet lighting, or an outlet within an island or desk, as these influence the design and need to be coordinated with the wider project.
06
Plan delivery and site access
Large pieces have to reach the room. Note narrow hallways, tight turns, stairs, lifts and door widths along the route, as well as any building rules about deliveries or working hours.
Consultation checklist
Bring as much of this as you have. Gaps are fine; they become questions to answer together.
- Photos of the room and the wall or area where the piece will go
- Approximate dimensions, including outlets, switches and openings
- A list of what the piece needs to do and store
- Inspiration images, sketches or reference pieces
- Notes on finishes, flooring and colours already in the room
- Any lighting or power you want built in
- Delivery route details: stairs, lifts, door widths and access rules
- A budget range and any dates you need to plan around
This is a general planning guide. It is not a record of a completed project and not installation or engineering advice; site-specific questions are best discussed with a professional. Design and materials supply are available globally, while installation is available in Southern California.