Designing custom wood furniture for your home can be an exciting but stressful process since you want to create an heirloom piece that will stand the test of time. When designing custom wood furniture, there are several important factors to consider ensuring that your piece is not only visually stunning but also functional, practical, and long-lasting. 

1. Purpose and Functionality

The first question to ask yourself is, “What purpose will this furniture serve?” Is it a dining table where your family will gather daily, a bookshelf to store and display your favorite novels, or a statement coffee table to anchor your living room? The function of the furniture should guide its design and material selection. A dining table, for example, needs to be durable, while a coffee table can be more decorative in structure. Consider how the furniture will be used on a day-to-day basis to ensure it meets both functional and aesthetic needs.

Many of our custom dining tables have a steel base to withstand the wear and tear of its function, while side tables or coffee tables often feature a waterfall edge, contrasting material, or another defining characteristic.

2. Wood Type and Grain Pattern

Selecting the right type of wood is essential in determining the look, durability, and maintenance requirements of your furniture. You can read all about our top wood choices in this article, but here’s a summary.

• Black Walnut: Walnut has a rich, dark color and striking grain, making it a luxurious option for a statement piece.
• Mahogany: This material is chosen for its timeless color and grain pattern that looks great with traditional or contemporary aesthetics.
• Monkeypod: We love this unique choice to making truly unique, often live edge pieces that bring style and function to a space.
• Teak: Naturally water-resistant and durable, teak is ideal for outdoor furniture, shoe racks, and other more utilitarian pieces.

Get some inspiration for a custom table on our website here.

3. Color and Finish

Wood furniture can range in color from very light to deep, rich tones. If you have a specific color in mind for your space, take this into account when choosing your wood type. Remember that natural wood colors can vary, even within the same species, so be prepared for a range of tones.

Once you’ve selected your wood, the finish you choose can significantly impact both the look and durability of the furniture. At Garden State Soapstone, Slate, and Wood Countertops, we use Rubion Monocoat Oil to bring out the natural beauty of the wood.

4. Size and Proportion

Proper sizing is crucial when designing furniture. Take careful measurements of the intended space to ensure the piece will fit well and allow for adequate movement around it. For example, in a dining room, you want enough space to pull chairs out comfortably without crowding the room.

Consider the scale and proportion of the piece in relation to the other furniture and decor in the room. Oversized pieces can overwhelm a small space, while undersized furniture may look out of place in a large room. Choosing the right size will help maintain a balanced and harmonious flow within the space.

5. Sustainability and Ethical Sourcing

Many fabricators (including Garden State Soapstone, Slate, and Wood Countertops!) now offer wood certified by the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC), which ensures that the wood comes from responsibly managed forests. And remember that working with a local fabricator can lower your impact from shipping or transportation where applicable. 

6. Maintenance and Durability

Consider the long-term maintenance and durability of the wood furniture you’re designing. Some woods are more resistant to wear and moisture, making them ideal for high-traffic areas or places where spills might occur, such as dining tables and kitchen islands. 

Ensure that you’re prepared to care for your wood furniture by following recommended maintenance routines. Proper care will keep your furniture looking beautiful for years and protect it from environmental factors like sunlight and humidity.

Start Designing!

Designing wood furniture for your home is a process that requires thoughtful consideration of various factors, from functionality and design to materials and craftsmanship. Well-made, custom wood furniture is an investment that adds warmth, beauty, and character to your home, making it a true reflection of your personal style and values. With these considerations in mind, get in touch with Garden State Soapstone, Slate, and Wood Countertops to start designing a unique, handcrafted piece that will be cherished for generations.