Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know about commissioning custom furniture with Marcelina, from how the process works to timelines, materials, delivery and care. Don't see your question? Ask us directly.
How does the custom furniture process work?
It begins with a consultation. Tell us about your space, your vision, or even just a feeling, and within one business day we reply with a personalized brief, initial concepts and clear next steps. Once we agree on the design, dimensions, materials and finishes, we confirm your quote and delivery window, begin production on a 50% deposit, and deliver the finished piece to your door.
Can I customize dimensions, materials and finishes?
Yes, that is the heart of what we do. Every piece is made to your specifications: size, wood species, fabric or leather, finish and detailing. If you have a particular space, a photograph or an inspiration piece, we design around it.
Can you make a piece to match a photo or something I already own?
Often, yes. Share the reference during your consultation and we will tell you honestly what is possible and propose the best approach to achieve the look you want.
Do you work with interior designers and architects?
Yes. We collaborate with designers, architects and hospitality projects on custom and contract work, from a single statement piece to a full fit-out. Reach out and we will tailor a partnership to your project.
How long does a custom piece take?
Most made-to-order pieces are ready in 10–16 weeks, depending on the design, materials and finishes. We confirm your delivery window when you place your order and keep you updated as your piece moves through the workshop.
Do you offer rush orders?
Depending on our current production schedule, we can sometimes accommodate a faster timeline. Ask us during your consultation and we will be honest about what is possible for your piece.
How much does custom furniture cost?
Because each piece is made to your specifications, pricing depends on size, materials and complexity. We provide a clear, itemized quote before you commit, no surprises.
Is custom more expensive than buying retail?
Not always, and it is a different kind of value. You get exactly the size, materials and quality you want, built to last in Panama's climate, with no compromise on fit or finish. For many clients, it replaces the cost of buying the wrong thing twice.
Do you require a deposit? How does payment work?
Production begins on a 50% deposit, with the balance due before delivery. We accept credit cards, bank transfers and PayPal.
What materials do you use?
Solid hardwoods, including teak, cedar, oak and walnut, along with natural stone and marble, full-grain leathers and high-performance fabrics. We choose materials that look beautiful and stand up to Panama's humidity, sun and salt air.
Solid wood or veneer?
We build in solid wood where it matters and are transparent about every material in your piece. No mystery particleboard hidden under a nice photograph.
Will the furniture hold up in Panama's climate?
Yes, designing for the tropics is our specialty. We select woods that resist warping and termites, and performance fabrics that resist mould and fading, so your piece endures humidity, heat and coastal salt for years.
Do you offer a warranty?
Yes. Our craftsmanship is covered for 18 months, extended to 3 years on solid-wood pieces and 48 months (4 years) on rugs. If something is not right, we make it right.
Do you deliver, and is it included?
Yes. Delivery to your door is included in your price, free door-to-door throughout Panama City and the surrounding area, with delivery to the interior and to the United States coordinated as part of your order. In-home placement and special access (stair carries, high-rise crane lifts) can be arranged where needed. See our Shipping & Delivery Policy.
Do you deliver to the United States?
Yes. We take custom orders from clients in both Panama and the United States, and delivery to your door is included in your project quote.
What if my piece arrives damaged?
Inspect your piece on delivery. If anything arrives damaged or defective, contact us within 48 hours with photographs and we will repair or remake it at no cost to you.
Can I cancel or return a custom order?
You can cancel for a full refund within 48 hours of ordering, before production begins. After that, because each piece is built to your specifications, custom orders are non-refundable, though we always stand behind our craftsmanship against damage or defects. See our Refund & Cancellation Policy.
I'm moving to Panama, should I ship my furniture or order custom?
Importing can mean high duties, wood-quarantine permits, weeks in transit, and pieces that arrive damaged or simply don't fit. Custom furniture, built here to your exact space and designed for the climate, is often simpler, faster to enjoy, and a better fit. We're glad to talk it through.
Do you work with clients who don't speak Spanish?
Absolutely. We work in both English and Spanish, and many of our clients are relocating professionals and expats furnishing a new home in Panama.
Are your prices in US dollars?
Yes. All prices are in US dollars (USD) for both our Panama and United States clients. Panama uses the US dollar, so there is no currency conversion either way.
How do I order, can I buy online, or do I need a consultation?
Because every piece is made to order, we start with a short consultation rather than an instant checkout. Send us your space, dimensions or inspiration through our contact form or WhatsApp; we reply within one business day with concepts and a quote. Once you approve the design, production begins on a 50% deposit and we deliver the finished piece to your door.
How much is shipping, and is it free?
White-glove delivery is included on US orders over $2,000. Smaller US orders are quoted at checkout based on size and destination. Across Panama, delivery and installation are included in your price.
Where are you located? Do you have a showroom?
We are a Panama-based studio and deliver throughout Panama and the United States. Consultations are by appointment: in person locally, or by video call for US and remote clients, so we can go over materials, finishes and dimensions together.
Do you handle customs and duties for delivery to the US?
Yes. US orders are delivered door-to-door with duties and customs handled by us (delivered duty paid), so there are no surprise fees or paperwork on your end.
Do you ship outside Panama and the United States?
Panama and the US are our core markets. For other destinations we can often arrange freight. Just ask and we'll quote delivery for your location.
Do you take on hospitality, contract or bulk projects?
Yes. We produce for hotels, restaurants, developers and multi-unit residential projects (FF&E), with trade pricing and project management. See our trade program to get started.
Still have a question?
Tell us about your space and we'll reply within one business day with ideas and clear next steps.
Book a private consultationPlanning a budget? See what custom furniture actually costs in 2026, real prices from 1,494 made-to-order pieces, or read is custom furniture worth it? and how the different kinds of makers compare.
Planning your piece? Check furniture dimensions and clearances before you order, and see how delivery and import duties work.
Moving to Panama? Read our complete relocator’s guide to furnishing a Panama home, whether to ship or buy, what survives the tropical climate, and where to find quality.
From our workshop
130 pieces · View all →
The Lune SofaStarting at $1,200.00 Member / $1,600.00 Regular
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The Bréhat Sectional SofaStarting at $2,850.00 Member / $3,800.00 Regular
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The Belluno Sun LoungerStarting at $2,145.00 Member / $2,860.00 Regular
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The Golfe-Juan Outdoor Dining SetStarting at $3,150.00 Member / $4,200.00 Regular
Tell us what you imagine. We build it.
Designed with you, built in our own workshops, delivered white-glove across Panama and the US.
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