How to Commission a Piece

Commissioning furniture might sound formal, but really it’s just about starting a conversation. Every Trew and Bold piece begins with an idea — yours or ours — and together we shape it into something lasting, beautiful, and built for your home.

We’re always happy to provide an initial discussion and a quotation, free of charge and with no obligation. That way you’ll have a clear sense of scope, price, and timing before you decide to go ahead.

Here’s how the process usually works:

1. Get in touch

Send us an email with your idea, whether it’s a specific piece from our collection or a completely bespoke design. Share as much as you can — sizes, materials, inspirations, how you’ll use the piece — and we’ll start from there with an initial chat and free quotation.

2. Deposit

To secure your commission and begin design work, we ask for a 50% deposit. This allows us to order materials, reserve workshop time, and begin developing drawings or design details where required. We don’t undertake design work without this commitment.

3. Design & confirmation

Once your deposit is received, we’ll confirm the scope of the project. For bespoke commissions, this may include sketches, drawings, or material suggestions. We’ll also confirm estimated lead times.

4. Making & midway payment

Your furniture is made to order in our workshop using sustainably sourced British timber. This stage usually takes around 12 weeks for collection pieces. Bespoke projects may take longer depending on scope, but we’ll keep you updated as things progress.

At the halfway point of the making process, a further 40% payment is due.

5. Balance payment

Once your piece is complete, the remaining 10% balance is due before it leaves the workshop.

6. Delivery

We’ll arrange delivery with you directly. You can choose from:

  • White-glove delivery (two-person service, to the room of your choice, unpacked and set up), or

  • Standard blanket-wrap courier (to your door, carefully wrapped).
    You’re also welcome to arrange your own courier or collect in person.

7. Living with your furniture

Your piece arrives ready to be enjoyed for years to come. To help it age gracefully, we’ve created a guide called Care & Character — practical tips on cleaning, refreshing the finish, and letting wood live naturally in your home.

In summary

Commissioning from Trew and Bold is straightforward: a conversation, a free quotation, a deposit, design confirmation, the making, and then delivery. At every step, we keep things transparent so you know exactly what to expect.