How to Commission a Custom Furniture Piece: A Step-by-Step-Guide
Commissioning a custom furniture piece is about more than choosing dimensions and wood species — it’s about creating something that fits your space, your style, and how you live. At BonoBuilt, each piece is designed and built by hand with a focus on clean lines, thoughtful proportions, and long-term durability.
This guide walks you through the entire custom furniture process, from first conversation to final delivery, so you know exactly what to expect.
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Why Choose Custom Furniture?
Custom furniture gives you control over:
• Fit — built to your exact space, not a standard size
• Materials — solid hardwoods like walnut and maple, not veneers or particle board
• Design — refined, modern forms influenced by mid-century and Scandinavian aesthetics
• Longevity — pieces designed to last for decades, not seasons
If you can’t find what you’re looking for in stores, custom work allows you to create something that feels intentional and personal.
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Step 1 — Define Your Vision
Before reaching out, it helps to think through a few key details:
• Where the piece will live in your home
• Approximate dimensions
• How it will be used (daily use, display, entertaining, storage, etc.)
• Preferred style (modern, mid-century inspired, minimalist, natural, architectural)
Photos, sketches, or inspiration images are always helpful — even if they’re just references for what you like or don’t like.
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Step 2 — Initial Consultation
This is where your ideas start to take shape.
During the consultation, we’ll talk through:
• Your space and layout
• Wood species and finish options
• Design details and proportions
• Timeline expectations
• Budget range
This conversation ensures the final design balances aesthetics, function, and build integrity.
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Step 3 — Design & Material Selection
Once the direction is clear, the design is refined with:
• Final dimensions
• Wood selection (walnut, maple, or specialty hardwoods)
• Joinery and construction approach
• Finish and surface treatment
Every decision at this stage impacts how the piece looks, feels, and performs over time.
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Step 4 — Pricing & Timeline
Custom furniture pricing reflects:
• Material costs (solid hardwoods, finishes, hardware)
• Design complexity
• Build time and craftsmanship
Most custom pieces are built over several weeks or months, depending on scale and detail. You’ll receive a clear timeline before the build begins so expectations stay aligned.
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Step 5 — The Build Process
Your piece is crafted in the BonoBuilt workshop using traditional woodworking techniques and modern precision tools. The focus is on:
• Strong joinery for structural integrity
• Careful grain selection and matching
• Hand-applied, low-VOC finishes for a natural look and feel
Progress updates can be shared along the way so you can see your piece come to life.
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Step 6 — Delivery & Care
Once complete, your furniture is prepared for delivery. You’ll also receive:
• Care instructions tailored to your wood and finish
• Tips for placement and long-term maintenance
Proper care ensures your piece continues to look and perform as intended for years to come.
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What Can Be Commissioned?
Common custom projects include:
• Coffee tables and side tables
• Console and sofa tables
• Dining tables and benches
• One-of-a-kind statement furniture
If you have an idea, it’s worth a conversation — many of the best projects start as simple concepts.
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Is Custom Furniture Right for You?
Custom furniture is ideal if you:
• Value craftsmanship and durability
• Want something that fits your home, not just a trend
• Prefer solid wood over mass-produced materials
• Enjoy being part of the design process
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Start Your Custom Project
If you’re ready to explore a bespoke furniture piece, I’d be glad to talk through your ideas and see what’s possible.
👉 View Past Work: Previous Work
👉 Start a Custom Build: Custom Commission
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FAQ: Commissioning Custom Furniture
How long does a custom piece take to build?
Most projects take several weeks maybe longer, depending on size, complexity, and current workload. You’ll receive a timeline during the consultation phase.
Do you work with specific design styles?
BonoBuilt specializes in clean, modern forms influenced by mid-century and Scandinavian design, but each piece is tailored to the client’s space and preferences. I am happy to discuss any design style you might have in mind.
What woods do you typically use?
Walnut and maple are the most common, with select specialty hardwoods available when a project calls for it.
Do you ship or deliver?
Delivery options depend on size and location. This can be discussed during the initial consultation.