Commissioning a Custom Piece
A considered approach to custom furniture.
A custom piece begins with an idea. It might be a particular table you've imagined, a space that needs something extraordinary, or a piece of wood whose character deserves a thoughtful design.
At Atlantic Fine Woods, we approach each commission as a collaboration. We work with you to understand the space, explore materials, develop a design, and create a finished piece that reflects both your vision and our approach to craftsmanship.
Whether you have a fully developed concept or are just beginning to explore possibilities, the following guide will help you prepare.
Start With the Idea
Think about what you want the piece to accomplish and how it will be used.
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Consider:
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What type of furniture are you looking for?
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Where will the piece be located?
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What purpose will it serve?
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How many people will use it?
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Are there particular design details, shapes, or proportions you have in mind?
You don't need to have all the answers. Reference photographs, sketches, existing furniture, architectural details, and even images of unrelated objects can help communicate an idea.
The most useful starting point is understanding what you are drawn to and why.
Before reaching out, gather a few basic measurements:
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Overall dimensions of the available space.
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Desired length, width, and height of the furniture.
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Ceiling height, if relevant.
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Doorways, staircases, elevators, and other access limitations.
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Clearance around the piece, particularly for dining tables and seating.
Photographs of the room are extremely helpful. Include wide-angle views that show the surrounding architecture, as well as closer images of flooring, walls, lighting, and existing furnishings.
For projects involving interior designers or architects, we welcome drawings, elevations, floor plans, and other relevant project documentation.
Consider the Space
The relationship between furniture and its surroundings is an important part of the design process.
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Explore Materials
Wood is not simply a surface or structural material. Its grain, color, movement, and natural irregularities are central to the character of a piece.
Atlantic Fine Woods works with urban-harvested wood, including trees salvaged from the Atlanta area. Each species has its own characteristics, and individual slabs vary considerably.
Some considerations:
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Wood species: Walnut, pecan, oak, maple, and other available species each offer distinct color and grain characteristics.
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Grain and figure: Straight grain, cathedral patterns, knots, natural edges, and other features influence the visual character.
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Slab selection: For projects incorporating live-edge or book-matched slabs, the actual material can play a significant role in shaping the design.
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Finishes: Natural oil finishes, matte surfaces, and higher-gloss finishes create very different visual effects.
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Additional materials: Steel, stone, glass, acrylic, and other materials can be incorporated where appropriate.
You do not need to select a wood species before contacting us. We can help identify suitable materials based on the design, intended use, and desired appearance.
Develop the Design
Once we understand the project, we can begin exploring its design.
At our studio, we believe in a collaborative design process that starts with your vision. You'll come to our studio for a design appointment where we’ll discuss your ideas and preferences. From there, we’ll guide you through material and wood selection, concept sketches, and design development, ensuring every detail is tailored to you.
Depending on the scope, this may involve:
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Initial design discussions.
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Material and wood selection.
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Concept sketches and design development.
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Dimensions and construction details.
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Finish and hardware selections.
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A formal project proposal and estimate.
The level of design development depends on the complexity of the commission. More involved projects may require additional design time and revisions before fabrication begins.
No piece enters production until the design, specifications, and project terms have been agreed upon.
From Workshop to Installation
We manage the process from material preparation through construction and finishing. Because each piece is made individually, production timelines vary depending on the design, material availability, and workshop schedule.
Before fabrication begins, we will establish an estimated completion date and discuss delivery or installation requirements.
For larger or more complex commissions, we coordinate delivery and installation considerations as part of the project planning.
Once approved, your project moves into fabrication.
Preparing to Inquire
You don't need a finished design to get started. The more context you can provide, however, the more productive our initial conversation will be.
When submitting an inquiry, please include:
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Project description: What would you like us to create?
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Dimensions: Approximate measurements or a drawing, if available.
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Location: Where will the piece be installed?
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Inspiration: Reference images, sketches, or examples of work you admire.
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Materials: Any preferred wood species or other materials.
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Budget: Your anticipated investment range.
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Timeline: When would you ideally like the project completed?
Photographs and supporting documents can be especially helpful.
Every commission starts with a conversation. Tell us what you have in mind, share what inspires you, and let us explore what is possible.