Frequently Asked Questions
How does commissioning custom furniture work?
Every project begins with a conversation about your room, practical needs, style, timing and investment range. When appropriate, Bryan will visit the space to take measurements and understand the surrounding architecture. From there, Motor City Woodshop Studio develops and refines a three-dimensional design before building the piece in our Clarkston studio and delivering it to your space. See the slider on The Commission Process Page.
How much does custom furniture cost?
Pricing depends on the size, materials, design complexity, finish, hardware and installation requirements. As a general guide, custom coffee tables typically range from $1,500 to $2,500, while dining tables begin around $4,950. You will receive a clear proposal for your project before construction begins. You will find some guidance about Motor City Woodshop Studio pricing on the Selected Work page.
How long does a custom furniture project take?
Most custom furniture projects take approximately 1 to 6 months. Timing varies depending on the complexity of the design, material availability and our current studio schedule. We will discuss timing at the beginning of the project and provide a projected completion date with your proposal.
Can furniture be designed to fit a specific space or awkward nook?
Yes. Custom furniture is especially well suited to rooms where standard furniture does not fit properly or solve the right problem. We consider the available space, proportions, traffic flow, surrounding architecture and how you intend to use the piece. A site visit and three-dimensional design can help ensure the finished furniture feels like it belongs in the room.
Can a dining table be designed for my room and seating needs?
Yes. A dining table can be designed around your room dimensions, preferred number of seats and the way people move through the space. Length, width, height, base design, leg placement, wood species and finish can all be tailored to create comfortable seating and the right visual balance.
What kinds of handmade furniture does Motor City Woodshop Studio create?
Motor City Woodshop Studio creates custom modern and mid-century-inspired dining tables, coffee tables, desks, standing desks and other furniture for the home or office. We also undertake architectural projects such as fireplace surrounds, built-ins, decorative beams and custom doors.
What wood species and finishes are available?
Available woods include white oak, black walnut, cherry, mahogany, maple, red oak and poplar (painted). Finish options include UV cured, cross linked polymer finishes, hard-wax oils and specialized surface protection selected according to the wood, intended use and desired appearance. Material and finish samples can be reviewed during the design process.
What areas does Motor City Woodshop Studio serve?
Motor City Woodshop Studio is located in Clarkston, Michigan, and serves homeowners, interior designers and architects throughout Southeast Michigan. Projects outside the immediate area may be considered depending on their scope and delivery requirements.
Does Motor City Woodshop Studio work with interior designers and architects?
Yes. We collaborate with interior designers and architects to develop furniture and architectural pieces that support the overall design of a room or renovation. We can work from an established design direction or help develop the piece collaboratively from the beginning.
Can you create furniture for a private office or commercial space?
Yes. Motor City Woodshop Studio designs desks and other custom furniture for home and private offices. Commercial and professional-space projects are considered individually based on their design, schedule, site and installation requirements.
What makes custom furniture different from showroom furniture?
Showroom furniture is made to fit a broad market. Custom furniture is designed around your particular room, needs and preferences. You participate in decisions about size, proportion, materials, finish and details while working directly with the person responsible for designing, building and delivering the piece.
Where can I find a Michigan furniture maker for a renovated home?
Motor City Woodshop Studio is a custom furniture maker located in Clarkston, Michigan. We create useful, visually distinctive furniture for renovated and newly designed spaces throughout Southeast Michigan, working directly with homeowners, interior designers and architects.
Where can I find a local woodworker near Clarkston to build a custom dining table?
Motor City Woodshop Studio designs and builds custom dining tables by hand in Clarkston, Michigan. Each table can be tailored to your room, seating needs, preferred wood, finish and base design.
How do I contact Motor City Woodshop Studio about a custom piece?
Start by completing the project inquiry form with information about the type of piece, room, approximate dimensions, timing and investment range. You may also include photographs or inspiration images. Bryan can be reached directly at bryan.whitfield@motorcitywoodshop.com, and you can generally expect a reply within two business days.
