In Practice

How Much Does Custom Furniture Cost?

How Much Does Custom Furniture Cost?

The cost of custom furniture can vary widely, depending on the complexity of the design, the type of material used, and the craftsmanship involved. A custom piece can cost anywhere from $500 to $10,000 or more, depending on the level of customization. A good average for most custom furniture pieces is $2,800.

custom walnut drawer pulls - How Much Does Custom Furniture Cost

Custom Furniture is made not just for its functionality but also for its artistic value. The furniture available from the big box stores will not cater to your specific style or size requirements.  At the most, they may have five stain samples to choose from, which they call Customization.  This is where commissioning custom furniture from a studio furniture maker can get what you want. They have the flexibility to design a piece that meets your specific needs.  However, this also comes with a higher price, so let’s explore why that is and how much custom furniture costs, and what factors influence its price.

One of the factors affecting the cost is the type of materials used. For instance,  a table made from something trendy, like a live edge walnut slab, will cost more than a table made from standard walnut lumber.  The cost can also vary depending on the finish you choose, such as paint or stain, and whether the piece requires any special treatments or techniques.  For example, if you were to gold leaf a table, that material would drive the price, but the labor to install it will add a lot.

Labor is probably the biggest factor in what makes custom furniture cost more than the big box stores.  Depending on the customization level required and the design’s complexity can add a lot to your furniture budget. For example, a simple design, such as a basic bookshelf or a dining table with straight legs and a rectangular top, will cost less than a complicated design, such as a curved sofa or a bed with intricate carvings.  If the design requires intricate details, such as inlay work or carving, the price will go up.

The craftsmanship involved in creating the custom furniture also influences the price. A piece made by a skilled and experienced craftsman will cost more than one made by a novice or someone with less experience. The more intricate and complicated the design, the more skilled craftsman is needed to complete the work; thus, the higher the price.

Custom furniture prices often include the cost of materials, the time and effort involved in producing the design, and any additional services such as delivery and installation.

Commissioning a custom piece is a great option if you have specific requirements and styles or just what to surround yourself with high-quality furniture. While the cost is higher than the off-the-shelf variety, the ability to create a unique piece tailored to your preferences can be worth the investment. When purchasing custom furniture, consider the factors that influence the price, such as the type of material, the level of customization required, and the craftsmanship involved. Doing so lets you decide on the type of custom furniture that will best suit your needs and budget.


I’m the owner of Benham Design Concepts, a mixed media art studio where I design and build custom furniture and other works of art using wood, glass, stone, and various metals.
In this blog, I talk about the art I create, my journey, and the things I learn along the way.

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