How to Use AI to Design and Measure Custom Shelving for Your Space

How to Use AI to Design and Measure Custom Shelving for Your Space

Custom shelving can transform any space—from cozy kitchens and stylish home bars to elegant retail stores and boutique coffee shops. At Soil & Oak, we specialize in creating high-quality, handcrafted shelving that perfectly suits your style, layout, and functional needs.

In today’s digital world, AI (Artificial Intelligence) is helping everyday people make the process of designing custom shelves easier than ever. Whether you're renovating a space or designing from scratch, AI tools can help you visualize, measure, and plan shelving that complements your unique aesthetic.

In this guide, we’ll show you how to use AI to:

  • Accurately measure your space

  • Choose the perfect shelving dimensions

  • Match shelving style to your interior

  • Select the best materials for durability and design

Let’s dive in.

1. Why Use AI for Custom Shelf Design?

AI tools save time, reduce guesswork, and provide accurate suggestions based on your space, preferences, and needs. With the help of AI, you can:

  • Generate design mockups in seconds

  • Get dimension recommendations based on your space

  • Match materials and colors to your existing decor

  • Visualize how your shelves will look before committing

AI doesn’t replace expert craftsmanship—but it’s a powerful companion when working with a custom builder like Soil & Oak.

Soil & Oak French Bistro Glass and Brass Shelves

2. Measuring Your Space with AI

Accurate measurements are key to custom shelving. Traditionally, you’d need a tape measure and a lot of trial and error—but now, AI tools make this easier.

How to use AI for shelf measurements:

  • AI-powered room scanner apps (like MagicPlan or RoomScan Pro) use your phone’s camera to map out your space and extract precise dimensions.

  • Augmented reality (AR) tools, such as Apple's Measure app or IKEA Place, let you visualize shelves in real space and estimate sizing.

  • 3D home design platforms like Planner 5D or SketchUp (with AI integrations) allow you to simulate your entire room layout, including custom shelving.

💡 Tip: After using these tools, share your measurements with us at Soil & Oak, and we’ll refine them with precision before building your shelves.

3. Choosing the Right Shelf Dimensions with AI

The right shelf size depends on your space and intended use. AI tools can analyze your room dimensions and suggest:

  • Shelf length and depth (based on wall space, nearby furniture, and use case)

  • Optimal shelf height (especially important for kitchens, retail displays, or bars)

  • Load-bearing capacity if you input what the shelf needs to hold

Example: Apps like Houzz or Roomstyler let you upload a photo of your space and use AI to recommend size, layout, and placement for shelves that fit perfectly.

4. Picking the Perfect Style to Match Your Space

One of the most exciting ways AI can help is by recommending a shelving style that matches your interior design.

How to use AI to choose shelving style:

  • Upload a photo of your space into tools like Remodel AI, Interior AI, or DecorMatters.

  • Let the AI analyze the room and generate style suggestions—like modern, rustic, industrial, or minimalist.

  • Experiment with different wood tones, metal brackets, and mounting styles.

At Soil & Oak, we offer a variety of styles and finishes that blend beautifully into any environment—from warm oak for farmhouse kitchens to sleek walnut for urban coffee shops.

Soil & Oak Brass and Wood Shelves

5. Choosing the Best Materials with AI Insights

AI can also help you choose the right materials based on:

  • Moisture levels (e.g., in kitchens or bathrooms)

  • Weight load (e.g., retail product displays)

  • Aesthetic goals (e.g., raw, reclaimed wood for rustic charm)

Tools like ChatGPT can walk you through the pros and cons of different wood types, finishes, and durability based on your needs.

Popular materials we use at Soil & Oak include:

  • White oak: Clean, timeless, and durable

  • Walnut: Rich and elegant for upscale spaces

  • Reclaimed wood: Eco-friendly with natural character

  • Steel brackets: Industrial edge and heavy-duty support

6. Bringing It All Together with Soil & Oak

Once you've explored ideas with AI and gathered your inspiration, bring your vision to life with Soil & Oak’s custom shelving team. We’ll:

  • Review your AI-generated concepts and refine measurements

  • Recommend final adjustments to optimize form and function

  • Handcraft your shelving using premium materials

  • Install shelving with expert precision

Whether you're furnishing a coffee shop, hotel suite, retail store, or home kitchen or bar, we’re here to make your space feel truly custom.

Using AI to design and measure custom shelving empowers you to visualize your space in new ways and make smarter design decisions. Pair that tech-forward planning with Soil & Oak’s expert craftsmanship, and you’ll have a shelving solution that’s not only functional—but beautiful and built to last.

Ready to Start Your Custom Shelving Project?

Contact us today or explore our porftolio for inspiration.

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