How to measure a room for bespoke furniture

A useful first survey records more than wall width. Furniture must fit the room, open without obstruction and travel safely from the street to its final position.

Draw the room

Sketch every wall, door, window and floor-level change. Measure at more than one height because walls are not always parallel. Note skirting, cornices, columns and sloping ceilings.

Record services and movement

Mark sockets, switches, radiators, vents and plumbing access. Show the full swing of doors. For dining, measure with chairs pulled out, not only the tabletop footprint.

Check access and verify

Record the narrowest doorway, corridor turn, stair width and lift. Large pieces may need removable legs or modular construction. Early measurements help planning, but fitted furniture should be based on a professional final survey.