Measure the room length and width from wall to wall at floor level
Measure ceiling height from floor to ceiling at multiple spots
Note any irregularities (alcoves, angled walls, built-ins, bay windows) and measure each separately
Measure doorways: width, height, and the door swing clearance area
Measure windows: width, height, and sill height
Measure radiators, vents, fireplaces, and built-ins: width, depth, and location from walls
Measure any obstructions: columns, stairs, poles, ceiling beams, ceiling fans, hanging lights
Measure the distance from each wall to the nearest outlet and light switch locations
Measure floor conditions: carpet thickness, door clearance over carpet, and any uneven floors
Measure furniture clearance needs: walkway widths between pieces and around entry paths
Measure the furniture you plan to buy: length, width, height, and any required clearance for drawers/doors
Measure the furniture depth including handles, armrests, and recliners (fully extended if applicable)
Create a room sketch with labeled measurements and furniture dimensions
Decide the furniture placement points (centerlines or wall-adjacent positions) and confirm clearances on the sketch
Check turning space for larger items (sofa, bed, dresser) by measuring available path widths and door openings
Re-measure key distances after sketching to confirm consistency with the plan
Confirm total occupied area and remaining walking paths using the sketch measurements