Draw the room before choosing a size<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Make a simple plan viewed from above. Mark each wall, doorway, window and any fixed feature that the furniture needs to work around. Label the sides A, B, C and D so your photographs can refer to the same locations.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Use one unit throughout\u2014millimetres are useful for furniture drawings\u2014and write it at the top. Record measurements immediately instead of relying on a photograph of the tape. If an existing plan is available, compare it with the room as it stands today.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Measure the available space in more than one place<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
For an alcove or fitted unit, measure the width near the floor, halfway up and close to the proposed top. Record the height on both sides and the available depth. Differences between these measurements are useful information; do not quietly average them.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Mark skirting boards, projecting window sills, handles, pipes and sockets. A wall measurement describes the wall, while a piece of furniture may need to sit in front of its projections. Photograph these details from the side as well as the front.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Use removable tape suitable for your flooring to outline the proposed footprint. Put the existing chairs in position, open the nearby doors and walk through the room carrying something you regularly use, such as a tray or laundry basket.<\/p>\n\n\n\n For storage, test the space with its doors or drawers open. For a dining table, check the chair in use, rather than pushed underneath. Where access needs vary between household members, involve the people who will actually use the room. There is no single clearance that suits every layout.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Start at the unloading point and follow the actual route into the room. Note entrance widths, stairs, landings, low ceilings, lift openings and the turns between them. An oversized piece needs more than a doorway measurement.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Tell the maker about gates, parking restrictions and any building access arrangements. A drawing of the route helps the team consider whether a piece should be delivered assembled or in sections. Agree these details through delivery and installation planning<\/a> before the design is final.<\/p>\n\n\n\n A useful first enquiry contains a labelled room sketch, a photograph of each relevant wall, the proposed furniture footprint and two or three design references. Add the property location, intended use, approximate budget and any timing constraints.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Separate essential requirements from preferences. For example: \u201cThe cupboard must leave this door clear; an open shelf above is optional.\u201d That gives the designer something more practical to work with than a reference image alone.<\/p>\n\n\n\n If you are planning built-in storage, read our guide to furniture for awkward spaces<\/a> next. For a table, use the dining-table planning guide<\/a> to test seating and shape.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Yes. Approximate measurements and clear photographs are useful for the first discussion. Identify them as approximate; final dimensions should be verified and agreed before making begins.<\/p>\n<\/details>\n\n\n\n Tell the maker which finishes are still to change. Finished floor levels, wall finishes and skirting details need to be accounted for before final measurements are approved.<\/p>\n<\/details>\n\n\n\n![\"Circular](\"https:\/\/pegasiosart.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/artifex-circular-metal-shelving.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nTest the footprint with everyday movement<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Check the whole delivery route<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Send a small, organised brief<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Frequently asked questions<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Are my measurements enough to start an enquiry?<\/summary>\n
Should I measure before or after new flooring is fitted?<\/summary>\n