Things You Should Make Sure First Before Ordering Made-To-Order Furniture:

2 weeks ago

Made To Order Furniture Edinburgh:

Made To Order Furniture Edinburgh is an excellent choice for those who want pieces that perfectly match their home, taste, and lifestyle. Unlike ready-made items, you get something unique in size, material, design, and functionality. However, the process isn’t as simple as picking something off the shelf. Since the piece will be made specifically for you, mistakes can be costly and sometimes irreversible.

Measurements Must Be Spot-On

One of the most common (and expensive) mistakes in custom furniture orders is incorrect measurements. You must measure the length, width, and height of the space where the furniture will go.

Clearance space for doors, drawers, or moving around.
Height relative to ceilings, windows, or shelves.
Access points like hallways, staircases, or elevators — to ensure the furniture can be delivered without damage.

Know Your Material Preferences

Ask yourself:

Do you want solid wood (durable but expensive) or engineered wood (cheaper but less long-lasting)?
Will the piece be exposed to moisture (kitchen/bathroom) or heavy use (living room)?
Do you need a scratch-resistant or stain-proof finish if you have kids or pets?

Decide on the Design and Style in Detail

Unlike mass-produced furniture, made-to-order designs require you to be clear about every element:

Shape and dimensions.
Armrests, legs, or support style.
Upholstery patterns, fabric type, and colour.
Functional features like extra storage, modular sections, or extendable parts.

Provide photos, drawings, or mood boards to your designer or manufacturer so they can understand your vision exactly. Ambiguity in design can lead to unexpected results.

Set a Realistic Budget

Before you start, decide on your maximum budget and discuss it openly with the maker. Remember to include:

Cost of materials.
Labour charges.
Delivery and installation fees.

If your budget is tight, consider discussing cost-effective alternatives, such as using less expensive wood or simplifying decorative features.

Research the Furniture Maker’s Reputation

Not all craftsmen or companies deliver the same quality. Before placing your order, check:

Reviews from past customers.
Photos of previous work.
Their experience in making similar designs.
Whether they offer after-sales services like repairs or touch-ups.

Get a Timeline — and Be Prepared for Delays

Before confirming your order:

Ask for an estimated completion date.
Get clarity on stages like design approval, material sourcing, production, and delivery.
Be aware that delays can happen due to supply issues or unforeseen technical problems.

If you have a move-in date or event, order well in advance.

Think About Long-Term Use and Maintenance

Before committing, ask yourself: Will this furniture still suit your lifestyle five years from now? Made-to-order pieces often last longer than cheaper alternatives, so they should be versatile enough to work with future home changes.

Also, check if the material requires specific maintenance. For example:

Solid wood may need periodic polishing.
Certain fabrics may require dry cleaning.
Leather needs conditioning to prevent cracking.

If you prefer low-maintenance furniture, choose materials accordingly.

Plan for Delivery and Assembly

Made-to-order furniture is often heavier and larger than store-bought items. Before ordering:

Check if delivery charges are included.
Ask if the furniture will be delivered in parts or as a whole.
Ensure there’s space to move it into your home without damage.

For huge pieces, professional assembly may be required — sometimes at an additional cost.

Confirm the Return or Modification Policy

Custom furniture is usually non-returnable. Still, some makers may offer modifications if the final piece doesn’t match the agreed design. Clarify:

Whether adjustments are possible after delivery.
If minor defects are fixed without extra charges.

Visualise the Furniture in Your Space

Even if the measurements are correct, a piece can feel too big or too small once it’s in the room. To avoid this:

Imagine moving around it in daily life.
Consider how it will look with existing décor.

Sometimes, scaling the design down slightly can make a huge difference in how it fits your room.

Finalise All Details Before Payment

Before you hand over your deposit or make a full payment, review every detail:

Double-check drawings, materials, and measurements.
Reconfirm your budget and delivery timeline.
Ensure you have the maker’s contact information for updates.

Once work begins, changes can be costly and cause delays.

Final Thoughts:

Ordering made-to-order furniture is exciting — you’re investing in something that’s uniquely yours. But with that freedom comes responsibility. Measuring carefully, choosing the right materials, setting a clear budget, hiring a professional company like Wedge Designs and communicating openly with your maker can make the difference between a perfect fit and an expensive regret.