You’ve fallen in love with the perfect sofa, dining table, or bed—but will it actually fit in your home? Nothing ruins the excitement of new furniture faster than realizing it won’t make it through the front door, let alone suit your space.
Before you shop, it's essential to measure your room the right way. At Sandy’s Furniture, we’ve helped countless customers avoid costly size mistakes by sticking to a few simple steps. So whether you’re furnishing a condo, a large family home, or anything in between, here’s how to get it right from the start.
Step 1: Measure Your Room Dimensions
Start with the basics: measure the length, width, and height of the room where the new piece will go.
What to record:
- Total room dimensions (in inches or centimetres)
- Ceiling height
- Locations of doors, windows, radiators, and vents
- Existing furniture or fixtures that won’t move
Use a tape measure and sketch out a rough floor plan on paper or a phone app to help you visualize everything.
Pro Tip: Leave at least 30–36 inches of clearance around furniture for walking space.
Step 2: Map Out Entry Points
Don’t forget—your furniture has to get inside first! That gorgeous sectional won’t do you any good if it can’t make it through your front door or stairwell.
Be sure to measure:
- Doorway width and height (including frame)
- Hallways and turns
- Staircase width, ceiling clearance, and landings
- Elevator dimensions (if you’re in a condo or apartment)
Pro Tip: Remove obstacles like door stops or trim when measuring—those few centimetres can make a difference.
Step 3: Know the Furniture Dimensions
Once you’ve found a piece you like, make sure to check the full product dimensions, including:
- Overall height, width, and depth
- Armrest height and seat height (for sofas and chairs)
- Leg or base height (if you’re working around radiators or vents)
- Extended measurements (for recliners, pull-outs, or tables with leaves)
At Sandy’s Furniture, we list full dimensions on every product page, but our team can also help you confirm specs in-store.
Step 4: Tape It Out
Still not sure how a new piece will feel in your space? Grab some painter’s tape and mark the dimensions directly on your floor.
- Outline the length and depth of the piece
- Include wall clearance or walking space
- Try walking around it to see how it affects flow
This simple step can save you major headaches and give you confidence before you buy.
Step 5: Consider Layout and Function
It’s not just about fit—it’s about how the piece works in your space.
Ask yourself:
- Will this block a window, vent, or outlet?
- Can you fully open drawers, doors, or reclining mechanisms?
- Will it overcrowd the room or disrupt traffic flow?
- Is there room to add complementary pieces later?
Use your measurements to plan a balanced layout, not just a tight squeeze.
Common Measuring Mistakes to Avoid
- Forgetting about baseboards or trim – Always measure from the narrowest point.
- Not accounting for door swing or window treatments – They can take up more space than you think.
- Overlooking ceiling fixtures or fan clearance – Especially important for taller pieces like cabinets or bunk beds.
- Assuming the hallway will be fine – Many furniture returns come from hallway mishaps!
Why Measuring Matters: Real Stories, Real Regrets
We’ve seen it all—sofas that get stuck in stairwells, dining tables too long to walk around, and beds that block closets. Avoid the drama by prepping ahead. Our team is always happy to help review your room dimensions and recommend pieces that will work beautifully in your space.
Final Thoughts: Measure Twice, Enjoy Forever
Buying new furniture is exciting—but measuring properly is what makes it all worth it. With a few simple steps and a bit of prep, you can avoid costly errors and create a space that feels intentional, functional, and just right.
At Sandy’s Furniture, our experts are here to help you measure, plan, and find the perfect fit—no guessing required.
FAQs
1. What’s the minimum space I need to leave around furniture?
Ideally, leave 30–36 inches around high-traffic areas, and at least 18 inches between a coffee table and sofa.
2. Can Sandy’s help me measure my space?
Yes! We’re happy to walk you through what to measure and even offer in-home or virtual consultations when needed.
3. What if my furniture won’t fit through the door?
We can help find alternate solutions—like modular sectionals, split-box foundations, or smaller-scale styles that suit your space.
4. What tools do I need to measure?
A tape measure, painter’s tape, notepad, and maybe a level if you’re measuring against uneven walls. A phone camera can also be helpful for recording tricky entry points.