Wood with character. A home with taste. Canh Nậu · Hanoi

Choosing furnitureAbout 2 min read

Choose a cabinet for the objects you want to display

Consider placement, door clearance and the objects you plan to put inside.

Glass-door cabinet and display compartments
Reference cabinet photograph from the family's collection; decorative objects are not automatically included.

An attractive cabinet design draws the eye first. For convenient use, also consider the objects you want to display and the working space around the cabinet.

A few photographs and approximate measurements make choosing a piece more specific, especially when changing compartments or ordering to fit a space.

  • Measure both the objects you want to display and the cabinet's placement.

  • Distinguish outside dimensions from usable space inside the compartments.

  • Ask whether shelves, fittings and decorative objects are included in the quote.

Start with the objects that will go inside

Arrange a group of objects you plan to display and photograph them. Note the tallest and deepest items, those you often take out and those you want to leave in place.

The discussion can then cover compartments, shelf positions and the clear space needed. A photograph of the whole group often shows your needs more clearly than simply asking for a large cabinet.

  • The tallest item and the one needing the most depth.

  • Objects you would like to display together.

  • Objects you need to take out frequently.

Look at both placement and working clearance

Measure the width, depth and height of the location. Check for doors, sockets, curtains or other furniture beside it; if possible, send a wide photograph of the area.

Consider opening the doors and taking objects out. A width that fits exactly does not tell you whether doors will open conveniently or whether the walkway in front will remain usable.

Ask about usable internal space

Outside dimensions help choose the location; displayed objects need to be checked against the usable space inside each compartment. When viewing a piece, ask which dimensions include the frame and which describe clear storage space.

Mention any layout changes while discussing the reference and quote. Changes to dimensions, wood or finish are custom requirements and need to be discussed individually.

Lower cabinet compartment with its door open
An open-door view from the same footage of this cabinet.

Clarify what comes with the cabinet

Vases, ceramics and decorative objects in photographs help illustrate a display but are not automatically included in the quote. Ask about shelves, fittings and other included items as well.

Before deciding, write a short list and call the family with the name of the piece. We will look at your needs and discuss suitable specifications.

  • Usable compartment space and shelf layout.

  • Doors, compartments and fittings you would like.

  • Included items, pricing and delivery arrangements.

You can send the article link with a reference photograph when speaking with the family.

How custom furniture orders work