From Concept to Creation: How a Designer Can Collaborate with OHI+W to Design Your Client’s Ideal Furniture

A step-by-step guide on how an interior designer can work with Oak Hill Iron + Wood to bring your client’s vision to life.

As an interior designer, you’re responsible for turning your client’s vision into reality. When working with custom furniture makers, such as Oak Hill Iron + Wood (OHI+W), clear communication is key to creating pieces that align with your client’s desires. Whether it's a statement live-edge dining table or hand-forged iron railings, here are some tips on how to effectively communicate your client's vision to ensure a seamless collaboration.

1. Understand the Client's Needs

Before approaching the custom furniture maker, make sure you have a detailed understanding of your client’s vision. This includes preferences for style, function, materials, and finishes. Encourage your client to share inspiration—whether through photos, mood boards, or color palettes. The more specifics you gather, the easier it will be to relay these ideas to the furniture maker.

2. Create Detailed Visuals

Custom furniture makers work best with visual references. After you’ve gathered your client’s preferences, develop detailed sketches, floor plans, or 3D renderings. If your client loves a specific design element, such as a certain wood grain or ironwork finish, include high-quality images or physical samples. OHI+W’s artisans excel in translating visuals into stunning, functional pieces, but a clear design direction is essential.

4. Articulate the Purpose of the Piece

Every custom piece should not only fit aesthetically but also serve a purpose. Whether it’s a piece for a high-traffic area or a design that needs to accommodate specific storage requirements, understanding the functional demands of the furniture is crucial. When working with OHI+W, communicate the practical aspects along with the design, so their team can incorporate functionality without compromising artistry.

5. Highlight Materials and Finishes

Custom furniture allows for unique material combinations and finishes, but these choices can make or break the design. Discuss the types of wood, iron, and finishes your client prefers. Oak Hill Iron + Wood specializes in sourcing high-quality, sustainable materials, and their team can advise you on what will work best based on durability, aesthetics, and your client’s lifestyle needs.

5. Be Open to Expert Input

While you are the voice of your client, it’s also essential to remain open to suggestions from the artisans at Oak Hill Iron + Wood. Their deep expertise in woodwork and ironwork means they may offer alternatives that enhance your client’s vision, from practical considerations to creative ideas that elevate the design. Trusting their craftsmanship will only enrich the final outcome.

6. Communicate Timelines and Expectations

Custom furniture takes time. Ensure your client understands the timeline and communicates any project deadlines to the makers. OHI+W prides itself on delivering high-quality craftsmanship, and rushing the process can compromise the final product. Being transparent about expectations on both sides will prevent misunderstandings and ensure everyone is aligned from the start.

7. Schedule Showroom Visits

One of the best ways to communicate a vision is to experience the materials and craftsmanship firsthand. At Oak Hill Iron + Wood’s showroom, you and your client can explore finished pieces, live-edge slabs, and iron designs, allowing you to refine your vision. This experience not only ensures your client is comfortable with the direction but also fosters better collaboration with the OHI+W team.

Final Thoughts

Collaborating with custom furniture makers like Oak Hill Iron + Wood is an opportunity to bring your client’s dream spaces to life. By clearly communicating your client’s vision, staying open to expert feedback, and ensuring a collaborative approach, you can create one-of-a-kind pieces that leave a lasting impression.

For your next custom project, schedule a visit to Oak Hill Iron + Wood's showroom and start bringing your client’s vision to life today!