Easy 10 Step Process to Measure a Space

Before you start any interior design or renovation project, it's essential to accurately measure your space. Whether you’re planning a complete room makeover or just rearranging furniture, knowing your room's dimensions will save time, money, and stress.

This guide provides easy-to-follow steps that will help you measure any space like a pro, ensuring your designs are based on precise, reliable data.

Ideally, you will have a partner, one will be taking the measurements and the other will be measuring.

Step 1: Gather Your Tools. You will need:

• Tape measure

• Paper

• Pen or pencil

• Smartphone or camera (for photos)

• Laser measure (optional for accuracy and convenience)

Step 2: Sketch the Room Layout

• Draw a rough outline of the room on your paper.

  • Include all the walls, doorways, windows, and any architectural features (e.g., columns, fireplaces).

  • Label each wall (e.g., Wall A, Wall B, etc.) to keep track of your measurements.

Step 3: Measure the Walls

• Measure the length of each wall with your tape measure.

  • Start at one corner and measure the distance to the opposite corner.

  • Write down each measurement on your sketch next to the corresponding wall.

  • Tip: If using a laser measure, place it firmly against the wall for more accurate readings.

Step 4: Measure Doorways and Windows

• Measure doorways from edge to edge, including the width and height.

  • Don’t forget to note the distance from the door edge to the nearest corner.

• Measure windows in the same way (width, height, and distance from the floor to the window ledge).

  • Record how far the windows are from the corners of the room.

Step 5: Measure Ceiling Height

• Measure the height from the floor to the ceiling in several spots (especially if you suspect uneven ceilings).

  • This is crucial for furniture placement and planning vertical elements like shelving.

Step 6: Measure Any Architectural Features

• Fireplaces, columns, or built-ins: Measure their width, depth, and height.

  • Note the distance from walls or windows, as these features can affect how furniture fits into the room.

Step 7: Measure Openings Between Rooms

• For open-plan spaces or rooms without doors, measure the width of the opening.

  • Measure from one side of the opening to the other and note the distances between the opening and nearby walls.

Step 8: Take Photos (Optional)

• Take photos of the room from different angles.

  • These can be helpful for reference when reviewing your measurements and planning furniture layout.

Step 9: Double Check Your Measurements

• Review your sketch and measurements to ensure accuracy.

  • Re-measure any dimensions that seem off.

Step 10: Label and Store

• Label each measurement clearly and neatly on your sketch.

  • Make sure you have a clear copy to refer to as you move forward with your design or planning.

Takeaway:

Measuring your space is the foundation of any successful interior design project. By taking the time to accurately capture your room's dimensions and features, you'll be able to plan effectively and avoid costly mistakes. Remember to double-check your measurements, and always keep a copy of your sketch for reference. With your measurements in hand, you're now ready to move on to the exciting part—designing your dream space with confidence!

Notes:

• Always round up to the nearest inch or centimeter when measuring. It's better to have extra room than not enough.

• If possible, use a laser measure for more accuracy, especially in larger spaces.

• Label everything clearly on your sketch—this will make the design process much easier down the road.

• Take into account irregularities like slanted walls or uneven ceilings, especially in older buildings.