156 | The Impact of Custom Furniture in ...

Are you tired of sourcing the same mass-produced furniture pieces your clients can find anywhere?

Imagine offering them something truly unique—a custom furniture solution that not only fits their space perfectly but also reflects their personality and lifestyle.

In this episode, I explore how interior designers can elevate their projects through custom furniture with builder Michael Brinkley. Michael shares how designers can turn client frustrations, like the wrong size, finish, or style in mass-produced pieces, into opportunities by collaborating with a custom furniture maker. He walks us through his creative process, from sketching and 3D modeling to building functional, heirloom-quality pieces that solve real design challenges. Through stories of unique projects, like a dining table made from wine crates and a barn door with a built-in TV, Michael highlights how custom furniture isn’t just a design upgrade; it’s a powerful way for interior designers to stand out in a competitive market.

If you’re an interior designer looking to deliver distinctive, tailor-made solutions for your clients while elevating your business, this conversation will give you the insider’s perspective you need.

Featured Guest:

Michael Brinkley is the owner and master craftsman of Brinkley Furniture, a nationally recognized custom furniture studio in Redding, California. With over 30 years of experience in cabinetry and furniture design, he specializes in creating heirloom-quality, one-of-a-kind pieces that blend timeless design with modern functionality. His work is celebrated nationwide for its craftsmanship, innovation, and ability to bring designers’ and clients’ visions to life.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode

✔️ How partnering with a custom furniture builder can help you deliver one-of-a-kind solutions for your clients.

✔️ The process of transforming client ideas into functional, beautifully engineered custom pieces.

✔️ Why communication and collaboration between designers and builders are key to a successful project.

✔️ Real examples of standout custom furniture projects.

✔️ Tips on sourcing materials locally and navigating budget-conscious options without sacrificing style.

✔️ How custom furniture can help you differentiate your design business in a competitive market.

✔️ Why investing in custom furniture is a long-term value for clients, offering heirloom-quality pieces.