How to plan your bespoke project
Bespoke project planning
A useful brief starts with what your project needs to do. You do not need to have every finish or construction detail decided before getting in touch.
Whether you are planning a reception desk, retail display, fitted furniture or signage, this guide helps you describe the space, the practical requirements and the result you have in mind.
Discuss your projectSeven things to include in a bespoke project brief
- What are you creating? Describe the item, where it will be used and the problem it should solve. Include who will use it and what matters most: display, storage, a welcoming entrance, serving space or a particular visual effect.
- How much space is available? Give rough overall width, height and depth, with units. Label estimates clearly. Include the room or frontage as well as the item itself.
- How many do you need? State whether this is one piece, a matching set, a prototype or a repeated rollout. List any sizes or versions that differ.
- What should it look like? Share reference photographs, a sketch, brand colours or examples from our project gallery. Explain which details you like and which you would change.
- Where will it go? Include the project town or postcode, indoor or outdoor use, and whether you need supply only or would like to discuss installation. Mention access restrictions and site opening hours.
- When is it needed? Give your target date and any fixed opening, event or installation dates. Explain whether there is flexibility; timing needs to be checked against the actual scope.
- What is your working budget? A range helps focus the discussion. Say whether it includes VAT, delivery and installation, and identify the features you want to prioritise.
Measure the setting, not just the item
Start with the overall space. Note walls, doors, windows, skirting, columns, steps and nearby furniture that could affect the design. For a counter or display, include the room people will need to approach it, use it and move around it.
Useful measurements
- Overall width, height and depth, all in the same units.
- Openings, recesses and any changes in level.
- Equipment dimensions and any required operating clearances.
- Access route: door openings, corridors, stairs and lifts.
Distinguish the available space from your preferred finished size. Label each measurement on a sketch so it is clear what has been measured.
Useful photographs
- A wide view showing the item’s intended setting.
- A straight-on view of the wall, recess or frontage.
- Close-ups of surfaces, obstructions and fixing areas.
- Views of the delivery and installation route where relevant.
Remove private information from anything you share. Mention if a photograph is a reference idea rather than your own site.
Initial measurements help define the enquiry. Final dimensions, tolerances and any site verification should be agreed before manufacture; a photograph alone cannot establish fit.
Add the details that matter for your project
Counters & reception desks
List screens, cabling, storage, tills or other equipment. Describe staff access, visitor approach and any accessible customer positions required. Include lighting and branding in the brief if they are part of the idea.
Explore counters & reception desksRetail displays & furniture
Give the sizes and weights of the items being displayed or stored, how customers will browse them, and whether the piece needs to move, dismantle or be repeated. For seating or shelving, describe the users and expected loads.
Explore retail displays · Commercial joineryMetal, acrylic & plastic fabrication
Share an existing drawing or sample reference if available. Identify the visible faces, edges, holes, mating parts and finish you need. Explain the use and environment before selecting a material or grade.
Metal & stainless fabrication · Acrylic & plastic fabricationSigns, graphics & surface finishes
Show the location and the distance from which the design will be seen. Note the existing surface, indoor or outdoor exposure, artwork availability and any lighting or power requirements. Flag permissions, site rules or standards that apply.
Explore signage & graphics · Architectural wrappingYour enquiry checklist
Use these headings in your message. Leave a heading marked “to discuss” where you are unsure.
Start with a summary in the enquiry form. Tell us what drawings or photographs you have available so the team can advise on sharing them. The current form takes a written message.
Common planning questions
Do I need a finished technical drawing?
You can start by explaining the purpose, approximate size and setting. Include any sketches or drawings you already have, and say where you need help. The final technical scope and information required will depend on the project.
What if I have not chosen a material?
Describe the appearance, use, environment and practical demands first. If you have a preferred material, include it as a preference. Suitability, finish and construction can then be considered for the actual brief.
Can I reference a project from your gallery?
Yes. Give the page title or link and identify the feature you like. A previous project is a visual starting point; your dimensions, materials, construction and fitting arrangements need their own review.
Should I include a budget and target date?
Both help define a useful starting point. State which costs your budget should cover and flag any fixed date. Price and timing need to be assessed against the agreed specification.
What information helps with delivery or installation?
Include the project location, access route, stairs or lift restrictions, site hours and whether you want supply only or installation discussed. Mention any site rules or permissions already known.
Your next step
Turn the idea into a useful conversation
Send a short summary of your project, its setting and the decisions you need help with. Include a gallery reference if a particular piece caught your eye.
Send a project enquiryComparing proposals or working to a deadline? Read our guide to bespoke costs and project timing before agreeing the scope.