Your Guide to Custom Furniture: Answers to the Most Common Questions
Investing in custom furniture is an exciting journey. It’s the difference between buying a piece of furniture that works and commissioning a piece that defines your home. However, because custom builds involve significant craftsmanship and a higher price tag, it’s natural to have a lot of questions.
If you’re considering a bespoke project, here are the answers to the most common questions regarding design, logistics, and the "fine print."
Phase 1: The Design & Materials
Before a saw ever touches wood, you need to know what’s possible.
What materials can I choose from?
Our big five are Red Oak, White, Cherry, Mahogany and Walnut. We are willing to use a few other species for cabinet pieces (Consoles, Credenzas, etc), but we to like to stick to the stock woods for dining tables. In my experience these are the most resilient species to our local environment, and such the ones I’m comfortable putting my guarantee on.
Can you match a specific style or existing piece?
Yes! Whether you want to match a mid-century modern aesthetic or a 19th-century heirloom, we can use your photos and inspiration boards to bridge the gap.
Is my design structurally sound?
This is where the expertise of a craftsman is vital. You might want a "floating" look or ultra-thin legs, but wood has physical limits. We’ll help you adjust dimensions to ensure the piece doesn't sag, wobble, or collapse over time.
Phase 2: Logistics & Timeline
The biggest difference between "big box" stores and custom shops is the wait time.
What is the typical lead time?
Lead times vary based on our backlog and, material availability and the complexity of the build. Normally, expect 4 to 6 months. This accounts for the time needed to source high-quality lumber, allow for wood acclimation, and the meticulous labor of joinery and finishing. Stock or simple designs from common woods do tend to go much faster.
How does delivery and setup work?
Unlike flat-pack furniture, custom pieces are often delivered fully assembled. We offer delivery, and will place the item exactly where you want it and handle all the heavy lifting. We also polish every piece once it’s in place.
Can I see samples in person?
Absolutely! Screens can distort colors. We always provide stain samples, so you can see how the finish looks under your home’s specific lighting. While we’re building your piece we’ll make a sample board from the material we’re using, so you’ll know it’ll be an exact match to the final product.
Phase 3: Financials & Protection
Because custom furniture is made specifically for you, the "rules of engagement" are a bit different than standard retail.
How does the payment schedule work?
We require a 50% deposit to secure your spot on the schedule and purchase materials. The remaining balance is due when you love the piece.
What does the warranty cover?
Our warranty protects against defects in the craftsmanship (like a joint or the finish failing). However, wood is a living material. Most warranties do not cover "seasonal movement"—the natural expanding and shrinking of wood due to humidity—as this is a normal characteristic of the material. Please read our furniture care guide and understand the proper care for your custom piece.
Final Thoughts
The path to a custom piece is a partnership. By knowing these answers early, you’ll be sure that the process will be as smooth as the finish on your new table.
Ready to start your project? The best first step is to gather your measurements and a few "style" photos to help us understand your vision!