How exciting! You’ll get a fine piece of furniture this way.

Many years ago, I sold Jason Scott furniture (google for pictures of his pieces), and was lucky to be educated one on one by his reps on how the pieces were hand carved, the woods used, the backgrounds of the Indonesian artisans, the history of furniture making there. I’ve sold a lot of lines and types of furniture, but none came close to the quality and uniqueness of those pieces. Each piece one of a kind. Works of art.

I’d just do what you’re doing — search the web for styles and woods you like. See if the shop owner has any other works to show you. Search Instagram and Pinterest tags. Find inspiration on sites like Chairish that may have antique/vintage pieces. Obviously, look for custom pieces for inspiration, rather than mass-produced factory lines. And put your own spin on it. :)

I hope you’ll share what you decide!