BPC Custom Furniture: What to Know Before You Order
BPC Custom Furniture makes pieces built to your specifications in South Carolina
BPC Custom Furniture is a South Carolina-based maker that builds furniture to order rather than selling stock pieces from a showroom. You choose the frame style, wood type, upholstery, finish, and dimensions—then the shop builds it. This approach means longer wait times than buying off the floor, but the piece arrives sized and finished exactly as you specified.
The shop operates on a made-to-order model, which changes how you shop and what to expect at each stage. You will not walk in, see a sofa, and take it home the same day. Instead, you work with the shop to design what you want, place an order, and wait for construction and delivery.
Key Takeaways
- BPC Custom Furniture builds pieces to your exact specifications rather than selling pre-made inventory, so you control dimensions, wood type, upholstery, and finish.
- Lead times vary depending on the piece and current production schedule, so confirm the timeline before placing your order.
- You will need to visit the showroom or contact the shop directly to see samples, discuss options, and place an order—there is no online ordering system.
- Custom orders typically require a deposit at the time you order, with the balance due upon delivery or completion.
- The shop can work with your existing décor by matching wood stains, upholstery colors, and style preferences to pieces you already own.
How the ordering process works
Start by visiting the showroom to see wood samples, upholstery swatches, and frame styles in person. Photographs and descriptions online cannot show you the true color of a stain or the texture of a fabric, so this step matters if you are spending significant money. The shop staff can walk you through options and answer questions about durability, maintenance, and what combinations work well together.
Once you have decided on your design, you will place an order with a deposit. The shop will confirm the lead time—how long construction will take—and give you a completion date. You will pay the remaining balance when the piece is ready for delivery or pickup. Ask about payment methods and whether the shop offers financing, as custom furniture can be a substantial purchase.
Before you finalize your order, confirm measurements. Custom pieces are built to the dimensions you specify, so if you need a sofa that fits a specific wall or a table that matches your room's proportions, provide accurate measurements. The shop can help you think through scale and placement if you describe your space.
Wood types, finishes, and upholstery options
BPC Custom Furniture works with different wood species—common choices include oak, cherry, walnut, and maple—and can apply various stains and finishes. The wood you choose affects the price, durability, and appearance. Harder woods like oak and maple hold up better to daily use, while softer woods may show wear more quickly. Stain color ranges from light natural tones to deep espresso, and you can usually see samples before deciding.
For upholstered pieces, the shop offers fabric and leather options. Fabric comes in different weights and weaves—some are more durable for high-traffic furniture, others are softer and better for pieces used less often. Leather requires different care than fabric and develops a patina over time. Ask about cleaning and maintenance for whichever material you choose, especially if you have pets or children.
Finishes on wood surfaces range from matte to high-gloss, and some are more resistant to scratches and water rings than others. A matte finish hides dust and fingerprints better, while a glossy finish shows more but can look more formal. The shop can explain which finishes work best for tables, desks, and other surfaces that see regular contact.
Lead times and delivery
Custom furniture takes longer to arrive than buying ready-made pieces. Lead times depend on the complexity of the piece, the current production schedule, and whether the materials you chose are in stock. A simple chair might take four to eight weeks, while a complex dining set could take three to four months or longer. Ask for a specific completion date when you order, not just a range.
Delivery is usually arranged separately and may be included in the price or charged as an additional fee. Confirm whether the shop delivers to your address, whether they offer white-glove service (delivery, placement, and removal of packaging), and what happens if the piece arrives damaged. Some shops handle damage claims themselves, while others require you to file a claim with the delivery company.
If you are ordering multiple pieces—a bedroom set, for example—ask whether they can be completed and delivered together or if they will arrive at different times. Staggered delivery can complicate your plans if you are replacing existing furniture.
Pricing and what affects the cost
Custom furniture pricing depends on the wood species, upholstery material, size, and complexity of the design. A simple wooden chair costs less than an upholstered sectional with multiple cushions and a custom frame. Larger pieces cost more because they require more material and labor. Premium upholstery fabrics and leather add to the price, as do special finishes or hardware.
Ask for a written quote that breaks down the cost of the frame, upholstery or finish, and any additional features. This helps you understand where your money is going and makes it easier to adjust the design if you need to stay within a budget. Some shops offer payment plans or financing options for larger orders—ask about these when you visit.
Prices can vary based on market conditions for materials, so if you are ordering during a time when wood or fabric costs are high, expect to pay more. Ordering during slower seasons sometimes means lower prices, though this is not may provide.
Customization options and limitations
BPC Custom Furniture can modify many aspects of a design, but there are limits. You can usually change dimensions within reason, choose different woods and finishes, and select upholstery colors and patterns. You may be able to adjust leg styles, add or remove cushions, or modify hardware. However, completely custom designs or structural changes that require new engineering may not be possible or may cost significantly more.
Ask the shop which elements are easily customizable and which are not. Some designs have standard frame sizes that can be adjusted slightly, while others are more rigid. If you have a very specific vision, bring sketches or photographs to your consultation so the shop can tell you whether it is feasible.
Keep in mind that highly customized pieces may take longer to produce and could have a higher price tag. The more you stay within the shop's standard offerings, the faster and more affordable your order will be.
Caring for your custom furniture
Once your piece arrives, proper care extends its life. Wood furniture benefits from occasional dusting and polishing, and you should protect it from direct sunlight, which can fade stain color over time. Upholstered pieces should be vacuumed regularly and spot-cleaned as needed. The shop should provide care instructions specific to the materials you chose—follow these to maintain your warranty and keep the piece looking good.
Leather requires conditioning periodically to prevent cracking, and fabric can benefit from professional cleaning every few years depending on use. Avoid placing hot items directly on wood surfaces, and use coasters and placemats to protect against water rings and stains. If damage occurs, ask the shop whether they offer repair services or can recommend someone who does.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to get a custom piece?
Lead times vary by piece and production schedule, typically ranging from four to twelve weeks or longer for complex designs. Ask for a specific completion date when you order rather than relying on a general estimate. The shop can tell you their current timeline based on their backlog.
Can I see fabric and wood samples before I order?
Yes, visiting the showroom is the best way to see actual samples of wood stains, finishes, and upholstery fabrics. Photographs online cannot show true color or texture, so plan to visit in person if possible, especially for a significant purchase.
What if I change my mind after I order?
Cancellation policies vary by shop. Once production begins, canceling may result in losing your deposit or owing a portion of the full price. Ask about the cancellation policy before you place your order, and get it in writing.
Do you offer delivery, and is it included in the price?
Delivery arrangements and costs vary. Ask whether the shop delivers to your area, whether delivery is included in the quoted price, and what white-glove service (placement and packaging removal) costs if offered. Confirm these details before finalizing your order.
Can you match my existing furniture?
Yes, bring photographs or samples of pieces you already own. The shop can match wood stains, upholstery colors, and style to coordinate with your existing décor, though exact matches may not always be possible depending on the age and finish of your current furniture.