Bespoke Joinery The Real Costs

When it comes to creating a unique, standout interior for your venue, bespoke joinery is often top of the list. From statement bars and counters to fitted shelving, banquettes, or feature walls, custom joinery adds polish, personality, and purpose to your space.

But before you dive in, it’s important to understand the real costs behind bespoke joinery—what you're paying for, how to budget, and what value it brings to your project long-term.

This blog looks to give you an insight into the joinery industry and does not represent Furniture North East.

What Is Bespoke Joinery?

Bespoke joinery refers to custom-designed and built woodwork that is tailored specifically for your space. This can include:

• Bar counters and back bars

• Built-in shelving or display units

• Fitted banquette seating

• Feature walls, ceiling rafts or panelling

• Reception desks or POS stations

• Custom cabinetry or storage solutions

Unlike off-the-shelf furniture or flatpack options, bespoke joinery is made-to-measure, designed with your brand and layout in mind, and crafted using commercial-grade materials.

Why Choose Bespoke Joinery?

While the upfront cost may be higher than standard furniture, bespoke joinery offers unique benefits:

• Perfect fit for your space, no compromises

• Custom finishes to match your branding or design concept

• Durability—built for high-traffic, commercial use

• Built-in functionality (e.g. hidden storage, integrated lighting)

• A truly one-of-a-kind look that sets your venue apart

The Real Costs Behind Bespoke Joinery

Here’s a breakdown of what drives the cost of bespoke joinery:

1. Design and Consultation Fees

Every project starts with concept design, technical drawings, and possibly 3D visuals. This stage ensures your vision is functional, feasible, and compliant with building regulations.

💸 Typical cost: £300–£1,000+ depending on complexity and whether a full design package is included.

2. Materials and Finishes

Your choice of materials has a big impact on cost. Solid hardwoods, veneers, laminates, metal trims, or specialist finishes (like brass or concrete effects) will affect the budget.

💸 Example: MDF carcasses with laminate finish are more affordable than solid oak with custom staining.

3. Labour and Craftsmanship

Skilled joiners spend hours crafting and assembling your pieces—especially when working on intricate designs or large-scale fittings like bars or booths.

💸 Labour is typically charged per day or project and can range from £200 to £400+ per day, per joiner.

4. Installation and On-Site Work

Joinery doesn’t just arrive ready to go—it needs professional installation. This can involve:

• Site surveys

• Adjustments to fit uneven floors/walls

• Fixing into place, sealing, finishing

💸 Expect installation to add 15–30% to the overall cost.

5. Project Management and Coordination

If your bespoke joinery is part of a wider fit-out, it needs to be coordinated with other trades—electricians, plumbers, flooring contractors, etc. A good joinery team will liaise closely with your contractor or interior designer to make sure everything runs smoothly.

Estimated Cost Ranges

Here's a rough guide to average price ranges (UK-based) for common bespoke joinery items:

Note: Prices vary based on materials, design complexity, location, and scale.  These are not final prices, but a UK average.

How to Keep Costs Under Control

Bespoke doesn’t have to break the bank. Here are a few ways to manage your budget:

• Combine bespoke with off-the-shelf: Use custom joinery for key features (like the bar) and pair with standard furniture elsewhere.

• Simplify the design: Clean lines, clever details, and quality materials can still feel premium without ornate detailing.

• Be clear about your priorities: Focus your budget on high-impact areas where customisation makes the biggest difference.

• Ask about modular options: Some joiners offer semi-bespoke units that can be adapted without a full redesign.

Is Bespoke Joinery Worth the Investment?

In short—yes, if done right. While it’s a bigger upfront investment than flatpack alternatives, bespoke joinery adds lasting value through:

• Improved space efficiency

• Brand cohesion

• Long-term durability

• A distinctive, premium feel that elevates your venue

For bars, cafés, and restaurants, it can also directly impact how customers experience your space—and how long they stay.

Final Thoughts

Bespoke joinery offers the perfect blend of form and function, helping you make the most of your space while creating a unique customer experience. Understanding the real costs allows you to plan smart, choose the right materials, and invest where it matters most.

Looking for bespoke joinery or custom furniture solutions for your venue?
We create made-to-measure pieces for bars, cafés, restaurants, and commercial interiors—designed for durability, style, and performance. Get in touch today to talk through your vision.