Over the past year, I’ve found myself becoming more and more fascinated with home design. One piece I’m especially proud of is my customized marble dining table from Custom n9. The process of choosing the tabletop material, the legs, and even the dining chairs felt like stepping into a whole new world of interior design. It wasn’t just about buying furniture—it was about shaping a space that felt personal, timeless, and truly my own.
To dive deeper into the story behind this brand, I spoke with Amy, the founder of Custom n9, about her journey, her approach to furniture design, and her practical advice for choosing and caring for dining furniture. What I discovered is that Custom n9 is less about “filling a space” and more about creating pieces that will live with you for years to come.
From Instagram to Interiors
Custom n9’s story began in 2018 as a simple Instagram page with a single goal: helping people turn their Pinterest boards into reality. Living in Dubai for nearly a decade, Amy noticed how often expats relied on “single-use” furniture—affordable pieces meant to last a short while before being discarded. For many, the dream home existed somewhere in the future, so furniture purchases were more about convenience than meaning.
Amy wanted to change that. After years of buying pieces that didn’t last, she created her first design—something that reflected her personal taste and could stand the test of time. That spark grew into Custom n9. By 2019, the business had expanded into home décor with handcrafted steel planters and plant stands, followed by the launch of their first full collection. Today, Custom n9 runs a sleek e-commerce site where customers can design bespoke furniture online, with production times as quick as three weeks.
The brand has since become a go-to for those who want more than cookie-cutter interiors. They now craft custom furniture and décor not only for individuals but also for global and local brands across the UAE.
Choosing the Right Dining Table
According to Amy, one of the biggest mistakes people make is underestimating how much space a dining table will take up. Her tip? Grab some old newspapers, cut them to the dimensions of the table you’re considering, and lay them out on the floor. This simple trick gives a real sense of scale and ensures the table won’t overwhelm your room.
Seating is another factor. If you love entertaining, consider benches—they allow you to squeeze in a few extra guests. Alternatively, widening the table can make room for two chairs on each end. It all depends on how you plan to use the space.
Caring for Marble and Terrazzo
Many of Custom n9’s designs are made from marble and terrazzo, two materials that are as beautiful as they are unique. But, as Amy explained, natural stone requires a little extra care.
- Use coasters for drinks.
- Place mats for meals.
- Organic detergents when cleaning.
- Wipe spills immediately to avoid staining.
Over time, marble may develop etching or stains, but a restoration specialist can refresh the surface back to its original beauty. Terrazzo, on the other hand, is more forgiving—less prone to scratches and easier to maintain. Still, Amy suggests paying attention to its bold patterns, styling them with neutral table settings to avoid clashing with its colorful inlays.
The Legs That Make a Statement
Custom n9’s collection offers a range of signature leg designs, from classic to bold. The Stevie leg, for instance, is their most popular and serves as a striking statement piece. It requires thoughtful chair pairing, but it’s perfect for anyone looking to make their table the centerpiece of a room.
For those who prefer versatility, the Floyd and Marley legs offer a more classic design—ideal for modern, minimalist homes or for people who like to switch up their décor often. The beauty of these designs is the flexibility to make a table truly your own.
Picking the Perfect Dining Chairs
When it comes to chairs, Amy emphasizes the importance of proportion. Always measure carefully to ensure they’ll fit comfortably around your table. She also advises against “forced matching.” For example, gold chair legs rarely match gold table legs exactly, which can feel contrived. Instead, focus on complementary tones and finishes that harmonize naturally.
Too many patterns or colors can overwhelm a space, so balance is key. If your table has intricate legs, consider pairing it with simpler chairs—or even a bench on one side—for a relaxed, modern look.
Styling the Dining Table
When it comes to styling, Amy gravitates toward pieces that bring warmth and personality. A vase filled with fresh greenery or colorful dried flowers instantly elevates a dining table. In the evenings, tall candles create a romantic, welcoming glow. She also loves experimenting with placemats, like a linen set she sourced from Sri Lanka featuring the Sanskrit alphabet.
For the broader dining area, Amy suggests investing in a few key pieces:
- A rustic vase of fresh flowers on the table or sideboard.
- An open sideboard to display tableware and crockery for a homely feel.
- Oversized pendant lights hung low above the table for drama and balance.
Designing With Intention
What struck me most in my conversation with Amy is her philosophy: furniture isn’t just functional—it’s emotional. Each piece has the potential to tell a story, to ground you in a space, and to become part of your everyday rituals.
Custom n9’s approach is about encouraging people to invest in pieces that not only fit their homes but also reflect their personal journey. In a world of mass-produced furniture, there’s something deeply refreshing about the idea of building a home slowly, piece by piece, with items that carry meaning.
For me, my marble dining table isn’t just a place to eat—it’s where memories will be made, conversations will unfold, and life will gather around it. And that, I think, is what makes a house truly feel like home.
