Why Custom Furniture Is Worth The Wait

Adam Gibbs • May 14, 2025

Custom vs. Store-Bought Furniture: What’s the Real Difference?


Custom Furniture
✔ 
Unique & Personalized – Built to match your exact style, space, and needs.
✔ 
Higher-Quality Materials – Crafted from solid woods, metals, or premium upholstery—no shortcuts.
✔ 
Superior Craftsmanship – Made by skilled artisans (like me!) with an eye for detail and lasting quality.
✔ 
Long-Lasting Durability – Built to withstand decades, not just a few years.
✔ 
Tailored Dimensions – Ideal for awkward corners, built-ins, or special storage needs.
✔ 
Higher Cost – You’re paying for quality materials, time, and skill.
✔ 
Longer Production Time – Each piece is built from scratch—no assembly line here.


Store-Bought Furniture
• 
Mass-Produced & Ready-Made – Available in common sizes and finishes.
• 
Lower Cost – Great for quick fixes or tight budgets.
• 
Faster Availability – Pick it up today, use it tonight.
• 
Limited Customization – You can pick the color… sometimes.
• 
Varied Quality – Often made with MDF, particle board, or veneer instead of solid wood.
• 
Shorter Lifespan – Most pieces aren’t designed to last more than a few years.


Behind the Build: Our Custom Furniture Process


Each piece I create begins long before the first cut. I start by hand-selecting rough-cut lumber, ensuring the best grain patterns and structural integrity. From there:

  • Every board is milled in-house to ensure perfect square edges.
  • Grain direction is carefully chosen not just for appearance, but to allow the piece to “breathe”—minimizing future warping or cracking.
  • Joints are crafted for strength and precision.
  • Finishes are hand-applied for beauty and protection.


Tips for Measuring Your Space for Custom Furniture


Want to make sure your new piece fits like a glove? Here are a few simple measuring tips to get started:

  • Start with the basics: Measure the height, width, and depth of your space.
  • Account for walkways: Leave 30–36 inches for walkways around furniture.
  • Note architectural details: Measure windows, outlets, radiators, and doorways.
  • Sketch it out: A quick drawing (even on paper) helps keep things organized.


Caring for Your Custom Furniture

Real wood deserves real care. Keep your piece looking its best by:

  • Using a high-quality furniture polish or mild soap and water.
  • Avoiding harsh chemicals and silicone-based products.
  • Placing felt pads under heavy items and using coasters to prevent moisture damage.


Ready to Build Something One-of-a-Kind?
Let’s talk about a piece that’s made for your space and built to last.

Email Us To Get Started
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