Topic 07 / 11
Learn about custom sizing, production, installation and fittings.
51 questions on this topic
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You can discuss a rough scope initially, but comparable quotes require measurements and a shared drawing.
Cabinet length alone does not determine the price. Ask for cabinet doors, carcasses, hardware, worktops, installation and removal to be listed separately. Quotes based on the same drawing are easier to compare.
Check the installation measurements again once wall and floor finishes are defined.
The initial site survey is enough to start design, but plaster, wall finishes and flooring can change dimensions. Before approving production, compare final on-site measurements and appliance clearances with the drawing.
Yes; the selected models' manufacturer dimensions and installation instructions should be included in the cabinet drawings.
Appliances of the same type can differ in body size, door swing and ventilation needs. Recheck cabinetry and service layouts if a model changes. Do not size an appliance opening from a photograph alone.
On most projects, final worktop measurements are confirmed after the base cabinets are installed.
Assign measurement and installation responsibilities to each contractor in the schedule. Confirm sink, hob and wall-junction positions at the final measurement. This coordination reduces the risk of a misfit after cutting.
Yes; the new sink position affects drainage, water supply, the worktop cut-out and storage below.
First assess the proposed plumbing route on site. Leave access to the trap, filter or waste system inside the cabinet. Approve the drawing with both the plumbing and worktop teams.
Show access to filters, connections and manufacturer-specified maintenance points in the cabinet drawing.
A fully enclosed hood may require cabinet removal for maintenance. Give the cabinet maker the chosen model's user and installation manuals. Check door swing and duct routing together.
Replacing the doors may work if the existing carcasses and hardware are sound.
Check the carcasses for swelling, warping and loose fixings first. New door weights and hinge positions must suit the existing system. Compare a sample against retained worktops and side panels to assess colour differences.
Reusing them may save money if their dimensions suit the new layout and the material is sound.
Inspect moisture damage, sagging, loose joints and any plumbing changes during the site survey. Existing carcasses may restrict drawer or appliance choices. Do not decide on appearance alone.
Keep the water valve, socket, drain and a route for removing the machine accessible.
Check that the cabinet door opens fully and allow for machine vibration. If appliances will be stacked, follow the manufacturer's installation instructions. The valve should be easy to reach if a leak occurs.
Place them on accessible lower shelves designed for the expected load.
Choose shelf spans, materials and fixings for the items to be stored. Check the manufacturer's load rating for pull-out fittings. Heavy items stored high up can be difficult and unsafe to handle.
Measure the clear passage, door swings and space needed for daily use.
A shallow cabinet will not suit every item, so list what it must hold. Mirrors and pale colours do not solve a circulation problem by themselves. Show both cabinet depth and remaining clear passage on the drawing.
Measure the slope at several points and plan the interior around areas you can actually reach.
Test where and how the doors can open. Enclosing deep corners merely to gain storage may hinder maintenance access. State ceiling tolerances and installation order on the production drawing.
Allow shoes to dry with suitable airflow and easy-to-clean surfaces.
Consider a separate lower compartment for wet shoes. An enclosed cabinet may need ventilation openings or an appropriate door design. Ask the manufacturer how the material should be cleaned and how it tolerates water.
Plan adjustable shelves and a flexible work area rather than one fixed arrangement.
Toy storage may later need to hold books or school materials. Consider sharp corners, wall anchoring and door swings in everyday use. Check safety details against the manufacturer's instructions.
Conceal the cables while keeping sockets, devices and connections accessible for service.
Choose the TV and other equipment before finalising the drawing. Do not trap devices that need ventilation in a sealed compartment. Mark cable routes and wall-mount positions together.
An access panel may be useful when electrical or data connections sit behind the cladding.
Coordinate panel positions with the electrical plan. Searching for hidden connections later can damage the finish. Show how the panel opens or detaches at handover, even if it is visually concealed.
Consider the work surface, camera background, lighting and cable management together.
Test the camera view from the seated position to see what appears behind you. Keep frequently used equipment within reach. Doors and drawers should not obstruct the desk chair.
Yes, if the desk's full movement range and cable slack are allowed for in the design.
Check the manufacturer's full height range. Nearby shelves, windows and cabinet doors must not obstruct movement. Keep the motor and controls accessible for service.
Set outlet positions, cable routes and equipment locations during the drawing stage.
List the devices used on the desk and anything that must be removable. Keep cable covers accessible without making cleaning difficult. A qualified professional should plan electrical connections.
Define compartments according to users and how often they need access.
Shared supplies can sit within everyone's reach; personal documents may need doors or locks. Measure folders and equipment before drawing the cabinets. Ensure open doors do not narrow circulation or escape routes.
Compare cleaning methods, expected wear and manufacturer care advice as well as appearance.
View and feel the sample under actual lighting. Joints between modules may be noticeable in use, so try sitting on them if possible. Ask about spare fabric and repairs before ordering.
Choose a direction that will not clash with people, the table or the wall.
List what the bench will hold and how often it will be opened. Review the lifting mechanism and manufacturer's limits for a heavy lid. Leave access around and beneath the bench for cleaning.
Reupholstery may be worthwhile if the frame and seat structure remain sound.
Compare foam, springs, transport and labour as well as fabric costs. Have an upholsterer inspect the frame first. Custom manufacture may suit you better if you need different dimensions or ergonomics.
List the power, water and ventilation needs of the equipment before designing it.
Measure the actual coffee machine and grinder. Check that you can use each device with the cabinet door open. Leave room to refill water and clean the area daily.
A small sample is a starting point; a larger surface may look different under the final lighting.
Ask for a representative door or interior sample. View the colour alongside glass, metal profiles and lighting. Record the approved product code and finish.
A furniture divider must preserve access, daylight and safe fixing.
Study how it looks from both sides on the drawing. Agree suitable fixings for tall or heavy sections with a qualified professional. Do not block electrical or ventilation points.
Coordinate bed size, cleaning, lighting and outlet positions on one drawing.
Consider the headboard with bedside tables, reading lights and charging points rather than as decoration alone. Ask the maintenance team whether any sections need to be removable.
It may be possible if there is room and a safe power supply; check the cable route first.
Door type affects sensor operation. Test the light position to avoid glare. Keep the power supply accessible for maintenance.
Yes; tall appliances and large serving pieces can determine its usable dimensions.
The outside of the cabinet does not show the drawer's internal capacity. Runners and the base take up space. Bring examples of frequently used items to help finalise the drawing.
Measure doors, stairs, lifts and turning space before production.
A modular build may be necessary even if you want a seamless appearance. Packaged dimensions can differ from finished dimensions. Include floor protection and the delivery route in the installation plan.
Measure the delivery route early so modular construction or another method can be planned.
Check building management's delivery rules and permitted times. Discuss knock-down joints with the maker. Last-minute changes can compromise finish and connection quality.
A written sign-off establishes a shared reference for material, colour and finish.
Photographs can distort colour, so retain a physical sample or manufacturer code. Match each approved finish to the drawing. Seek fresh approval for any change.
Natural veneers can differ in tone and grain; agree the acceptable appearance using samples.
Discuss grain direction and matching of adjacent panels with the maker. A small swatch may not represent an entire wall. Approve a sample panel before full production.
Edges receive frequent contact, so material choice and finishing details matter.
At handover, check that edge banding meets neatly and no board core is exposed. Use the manufacturer's recommended cleaning method. Consider extra edge protection where water is common.
A touch-up or refinishing may be needed, depending on damage depth and finish.
Household paint can leave a visible difference in colour or sheen. Ask the maker for the finish code and care advice. Test any proposed repair in an inconspicuous spot first.
Natural surfaces can change appearance with light over time.
Account for uneven sun exposure across panels. Ask the maker how to protect and clean the finish. Areas kept covered may develop a different tone from exposed areas.
Choose the base, joints and finish for the likely exposure to water and cleaning.
Assess how water reaches the area during the site survey. Compare manufacturers' information on board and edge finishes. If there is an ongoing leak, replacing furniture alone will not solve it.
Replacement depends on the hardware model and how it was installed.
Keep the hardware brand and model in the order file. New hinges or runners may not match existing holes or dimensions. Ask about spare parts and service for frequently used doors.
Yes; preserve enough access to disconnect and remove it for service.
The plinth, worktop and side panels must not trap the appliance. Check hose and outlet access against the installation instructions. Ask for the removal procedure at handover.
Follow the manufacturer's anchoring instructions to reduce tip-over risk.
Choose fixings suited to the wall construction. Drawers and doors accessible to children can increase risk. Discuss any limits on anchoring before ordering.
Choose shelf span, thickness, material and fixings for the weight of the items stored.
Books can be much heavier than decorative objects. Ask the maker to assess deflection on wide shelves. Wall fixings must be considered as part of the overall load.
Yes, if on-site measurements and adjustment allowances are built into the design.
Measure the floor and ceiling at more than one point. Show how the installer will level the unit. Allowances at the finished surfaces affect the visible result.
Assess the bed when open, remaining walking space and safe operation of the mechanism.
Its closed dimensions alone are not enough. Choose a mechanism suited to how often the bed will be opened. Follow the manufacturer's anchoring and maintenance instructions.
Investigate the moisture source and the wall condition before replacing the unit.
Leaks, condensation and poor airflow need different remedies. Allow appropriate clearance and access behind the new wardrobe. Furniture may be damaged again if active moisture remains.
Choose materials for the balcony's actual exposure to water, sun and temperature changes.
Wind-driven rain can reach even a covered balcony. Ask the maker about outdoor suitability and care. Plan dry storage for cushions and consider the fittings too.
Discuss the installation area, delivery route and disruption to daily use in advance.
Allow for the gap between removing old furniture and receiving the new pieces. Include dust, noise and surface protection in the work plan. Set aside a safe area for children and pets.
Confirm the upper and lower cabinet positions and worktop thickness before final backsplash measurements.
Mark cuts around sockets, windows and the hood on the drawing. The chosen finish affects junction details. Agree the installation order with cabinet, worktop and tiling teams.
Ask for the approved drawing, material list, hardware details and care instructions in writing.
Clarify which parts have service or product warranties and keep the service contact details. This record helps if a door, runner or finish later needs repair or replacement.
Follow the manufacturer's care instructions for each finish; one cleaner does not suit every surface.
Paint, veneer, solid wood and laminate may require different care. Read the instructions before using abrasive products. Do not let water sit around joints and edges.
A sample can help settle important choices such as colour, handles and junction details.
A full-size mock-up is not always necessary. A piece showing a visible corner or door section may be enough. Record which part of the finished product the sample represents.
Discuss feasibility, extra cost and delivery impact with the maker before approving a change.
Cut or finished parts may not be reusable. Put the change in writing and request updated drawings and a quote. Check that the installation team receives the current version.
These answers are general information; technical and safety decisions require an on-site assessment by a qualified professional.