Clever, Custom and Beautiful: The Smart Alternative to Fitted Furniture

Smart homes aren’t just about tech, they’re about thoughtful design choices too. When it comes to creating a high-end, bespoke look on a realistic budget, The Painted Furniture Company is leading the way. This British brand offers handcrafted, made-to-measure pieces that bring the feel of fitted furniture without the hefty price tag or long-term commitment. In this exclusive Q&A, Adam Brown, the MD behind the brand, shares how they’re helping customers create tailored interiors with handcrafted charm.

Q: Everyone loves the tailored look of fitted furniture but it often comes with a big price tag. What’s your solution?

A: We offer the best of both worlds. Our furniture is fully customisable, allowing customers to tweak dimensions, colours and configurations so each piece fits their home perfectly — just like fitted furniture. Yet, because every item is freestanding and made to order, there’s no need for costly installation, disruptive joinery work or the high price tag that usually comes with bespoke options.

Q: Can freestanding furniture really look fitted?

A: With the right dimensions and finish, absolutely. Many of our customers are genuinely surprised at how “built-in” their furniture looks once it’s in place. For example, lining up three wardrobes and adding a cornice across the top can create a beautifully seamless, fitted appearance.

The process starts with our standard collections - customers choose the pieces they love and we customise them to suit their space and style. Because everything is made to order in our UK workshops, we can offer a high level of flexibility without starting from scratch.

This tailored approach typically costs around 15% more than simply selecting our standard pieces, but it’s often far more cost-effective than commissioning a carpenter or going to a fitted furniture specialist.

Q: How does your furniture work for period properties or spaces with awkward dimensions?

A: Period properties and rural homes often come with unique character and equally unique challenges. Sloping ceilings, uneven floors, narrow alcoves and awkward corners are all part of the charm. The beauty of our furniture lies in its flexibility. Each piece can be tailored to fit the space perfectly, whether that’s a wardrobe designed to nestle under the eaves or a sideboard made to sit neatly beneath a staircase. Rather than working around these quirks, we help homeowners embrace them, turning architectural challenges into standout features.

Q: What sets your furniture apart from flat-pack or high street alternatives?

A: Every piece we create is handcrafted in the UK using solid wood and time-honoured techniques. The quality is unmistakable, from the smooth dovetail joints to the flawless paint finishes and timeless designs that complement all kinds of interiors. Built to last for decades, this is furniture you’ll want to treasure and pass down. Unlike mass-produced furniture, our pieces are designed to suit your space, your style and the way you live.

Q: What kind of look can customers achieve?

A: From fresh and coastal to classic country, it’s all in the finish. Customers can choose from a curated palette of elegant, easy-living shades or colour-match to their favourite paint. We’ve seen customers build fully “fitted” wardrobes, chic hallway storage and home offices that look like they were always part of their home.