Frequently Asked Questions

Flatow Furniture is a one-person custom furniture studio run by David Flatow in Bernal Heights, San Francisco. I design and build one-of-a-kind wood furniture pieces tailored to your space, needs, and taste.

I'm based in San Francisco, primarily serving the Bay Area: San Francisco, the East Bay (Berkeley, Oakland), the South Bay (San Jose area), and Marin County. For some pieces, shipping outside the region can be discussed.

Custom wood pieces such as dining tables, sideboards, credenzas, armoires, built-in shelving, desks and workstations, nightstands, media consoles, benches, and storage pieces. If it's wood and belongs in a home or small business, I can probably build it.

No retail showroom — I work out of a private workshop. Photos, drawings, and sometimes in-progress shop visits by appointment can be arranged.

It starts with a conversation about your space, needs, and inspiration. Then I create sketches and/or 3D drawings, refine the design with your feedback, finalize materials and pricing, build the piece in my shop, and arrange delivery and installation.

Yes. Many clients start with just a general idea and a problem they're trying to solve. I'll guide you through options for size, layout, style, materials, and details to land on something that feels just right.

Depends on complexity and feedback speed, but most projects take 1–3 weeks to go from initial conversation to a finalized design and quote.

Absolutely. Inspiration photos are great for understanding aesthetic preferences. I won't copy another maker's work directly, but those images will inform a piece that's uniquely yours.

Yes. I design and build both freestanding furniture and built-in pieces (like wall units, window seats, and home office setups), with on-site installation coordinated as needed.

Pricing varies widely based on size, materials, and complexity. As a rough guide, many custom pieces land in the low-to-mid four figures. I provide a clear, itemized quote before any commitment.

Yes. After finalizing the design and quote, a 50% deposit is typically required to reserve time in my schedule and purchase materials. The remaining balance is due upon completion/delivery.

Yes. Initial conversations and ballpark estimates are free. If a project requires more detailed site visits or drawings before commitment, a small design fee can be discussed that's often credited toward the final project.

Often, yes. Sharing a target budget early allows me to make design and material choices that help keep the project within range.

Most projects take 6–12 weeks from design approval to delivery, depending on complexity and current schedule. Larger or more intricate pieces may take longer.

Sometimes. If there's a firm deadline (move-in date, event, baby on the way), share it upfront and I'll give you an honest assessment of whether I can meet it.

Primarily solid hardwoods (like walnut, white oak, cherry, and maple) and high-quality veneers, along with durable hardware and finishes meant to last for many years.

Whenever possible, I source wood from responsible mills and suppliers. We can discuss options like FSC-certified lumber and species that are both beautiful and environmentally conscious.

Finishes are chosen based on the piece and how it will be used — often hardwax oils or other durable, repairable finishes that bring out the natural beauty of the wood while protecting it from everyday wear.

Each piece is designed specifically for the client and their space, built one at a time, using solid materials and joinery meant to last. There's no "flat-pack" compromise: fit, proportions, and details are all tuned to your life rather than to a shipping container.

Yes. I welcome collaboration with design professionals and can coordinate with contractors or architects to ensure the piece integrates cleanly into the overall project.

In many cases, yes — especially when it comes to wood species, general style, and proportions. Perfect color/finish matches can be tricky, but I can usually achieve very close results.

Yes. For Bay Area projects, I coordinate delivery and, when needed, provide on-site installation. For some smaller freestanding pieces, shipping options can be discussed.

On a case-by-case basis. Shipping custom furniture safely can be complex and costly, but for the right project, I can explore options and provide a quote.

I plan for this from the start. I'll request photos and measurements, and design the piece (or break it into sections) so it can be delivered safely into the space.

I provide simple care instructions specific to the piece and its finish — usually just gentle cleaning and occasional maintenance to keep it looking great for years.

I stand behind my work. If there's an issue related to materials or craftsmanship under normal use, get in touch. I'll assess the situation and work out a resolution.

My primary focus is building new custom work, but I occasionally take on repairs or refinishing — especially for pieces I originally built. Feel free to ask if it's a good fit.

Send a message to inquire@flatow.furniture with a short description of what you're looking for, any measurements, photos of your space, and your ideal timeline. From there, we'll schedule a call to take the next step together.

Rough dimensions of your space, a few inspiration images if available, any must-have features (storage, seating capacity, cable management, etc.), and an idea of budget and timeline. The more you share, the smoother the process will be.