The Nest Guide to planning your USM Haller System
Creating a bespoke USM Haller setup is one of the best ways to design storage that genuinely works for your space and lifestyle. Whatever your plans, the beauty of the system lies in its flexibility.
At Nest, we work with customers every day to help turn ideas into practical, long-lasting configurations that feel completely personal. This guide walks you through the process – from planning your layout to placing your order confidently.
Why choose USM Haller?
Originally developed in Switzerland in the 1960s, USM Haller has become one of the most recognisable modular furniture systems in contemporary interiors. Built using precision-engineered steel tubing, signature connector joints and powder-coated panels, each piece is designed to adapt over time rather than be replaced.
What makes the system stand out is its ability to evolve with your needs. A low sideboard today can become a larger storage system years later simply by adding new components or reworking the layout. A larger unit can also be split into smaller units. Making the system grow or reshape with you.
Start with your space
Before building a configuration, think about how the furniture will actually be used day to day.
Some helpful starting points include:
- What needs to be stored or displayed?
- Will the unit sit against a wall, divide a room or tuck into an alcove?
- Do you need open shelving, drop-down doors, drawers or filing storage?
- Is the system likely to expand in the future?
- Panel options to consider (see more details below)
Because the system is modular, it works equally well for compact apartments, larger open-plan spaces and commercial interiors and is a great product for multifunctional usage. A sideboard by evening, a desk by day.
Designing your configuration
The official USM configurator is the easiest way to visualise your system and experiment with layouts. It allows you to:
- Adjust dimensions and proportions (within the parameters of what's available).
- Explore colour combinations
- Add doors, drawers and accessories (many more configuration options available through our USM exports in-store and online)
- View your design in 3D
- Understand how different modules work together
One of the advantages of configuring digitally is being able to refine the balance between aesthetics, practicality and budget before ordering.
Our in-house sales team are fully trained in using the configuration system, so if you prefer to hand this over to us - go ahead, we're more than happy to help. Get started with our team, all we need if your dimensions and usage requirements and we can start designing for you!
Understanding Configuration IDs
Once your design is complete, the configurator generates a unique reference ID containing all of your selected specifications. This acts as the blueprint for your system, including dimensions, finishes and internal components, you can do this my saving your design as a PDF and sending it over to us.
Sharing this reference with the Nest team allows us to:
- Review the design with you
- Confirm specifications and pricing
- Suggest practical refinements if needed
- Arrange ordering and delivery
It also means we can quickly revisit or amend your design later if your plans change.
Choosing colours & finishes
One of the most enjoyable parts of creating a bespoke system is selecting finishes. From understated neutrals to bold statement colours, the modular format lends itself to both subtle and expressive interiors.
Many clients choose timeless tones for larger units, while others introduce colour through smaller accent pieces or internal sections. Because components can be reconfigured later, there’s always flexibility to evolve the look over time.
Freestanding or wall secured?
Most smaller and mid-sized configurations are freestanding. However, larger or taller systems may require additional stabilisation depending on the proportions and intended use.
The configurator helps identify when wall fixing or counterbalancing may be recommended for safety and stability and our team are on hand to advise.
Lead times & delivery
Every bespoke USM Haller piece is made to order, which is part of what makes the system so versatile. Typical lead times are usually around six to eight weeks, depending on specification and availability.
Larger or more complex systems may also include installation support to ensure everything is assembled correctly and positioned perfectly within the space.
A long-term investment in flexibility
One reason USM Haller continues to remain relevant decades after its launch is that it’s designed around longevity rather than short-term trends. The modular construction allows owners to adapt pieces over time instead of replacing them completely.
For many people, that flexibility makes it feel less like buying furniture and more like building a system that evolves alongside their home.
And because of the modular nature of the system, USM Haller can be configured into far more than traditional storage — the possibilities are endless – from wardrobes and coffee tables to benches, TV units, bins and even unexpected everyday pieces like toilet roll holders.
Beyond the basics: Further customisation options
One of the most overlooked aspects of USM Haller is just how customisable the system can be beyond standard shelving and storage.
Alongside classic powder-coated panels, USM Haller is also available with:
- perforated metal panels
- elegant glass panels
- soft acoustic panels for a warmer, more tactile finish
There are also multiple base options available, including adjustable feet and castors, allowing configurations to feel more architectural, more mobile or better suited to specific spaces and functions.
For media units and workspace setups, integrated cable management solutions can also be incorporated to keep layouts feeling clean and considered.
Beyond the online configurator, there’s also a wider world of accessories available through Nest, including magnetic bookends, internal organisation options and specialist finishing details that allow each system to feel even more tailored.
Need help designing your system?
Whether you already have a configuration in mind or are starting completely from scratch, the Nest team can help guide you through layouts, sizing, finishes and ordering options.
We’re here to help you create a configuration that feels considered, functional and built around the way you live.
Already own a USM Haller piece?
Even if your existing USM Haller setup wasn’t originally purchased through Nest, our team can still help adapt, extend or reconfigure it.
Whether you’re looking to add new modules, change the layout, introduce new finishes or evolve a system for a different space, we can help you build on what you already own rather than starting again.
Our team at Nest are experts in everything you need to know about USM Haller and custom configurations. Contact us at info@nest.co.uk, call 0114 243 3000 or message us on Live Chat for help and advice.
Pleased with the config you've created? Tag us on Instagram @nest_co_uk and share your USM solution with us.
Images: With thanks to USM, Jordan Bunker @jordanbunker & Harry Spain @hryspn
The Nest Guide to planning your USM Haller System
Creating a bespoke USM Haller setup is one of the best ways to design storage that genuinely works for your space and lifestyle. Whatever your plans, the beauty of the system lies in its flexibility.
At Nest, we work with customers every day to help turn ideas into practical, long-lasting configurations that feel completely personal. This guide walks you through the process – from planning your layout to placing your order confidently.
Why choose USM Haller?
Originally developed in Switzerland in the 1960s, USM Haller has become one of the most recognisable modular furniture systems in contemporary interiors. Built using precision-engineered steel tubing, signature connector joints and powder-coated panels, each piece is designed to adapt over time rather than be replaced.
What makes the system stand out is its ability to evolve with your needs. A low sideboard today can become a larger storage system years later simply by adding new components or reworking the layout. A larger unit can also be split into smaller units. Making the system grow or reshape with you.
Start with your space
Before building a configuration, think about how the furniture will actually be used day to day.
Some helpful starting points include:
- What needs to be stored or displayed?
- Will the unit sit against a wall, divide a room or tuck into an alcove?
- Do you need open shelving, drop-down doors, drawers or filing storage?
- Is the system likely to expand in the future?
- Panel options to consider (see more details below)
Because the system is modular, it works equally well for compact apartments, larger open-plan spaces and commercial interiors and is a great product for multifunctional usage. A sideboard by evening, a desk by day.
Designing your configuration
The official USM configurator is the easiest way to visualise your system and experiment with layouts. It allows you to:
- Adjust dimensions and proportions (within the parameters of what's available).
- Explore colour combinations
- Add doors, drawers and accessories (many more configuration options available through our USM exports in-store and online)
- View your design in 3D
- Understand how different modules work together
One of the advantages of configuring digitally is being able to refine the balance between aesthetics, practicality and budget before ordering.
Our in-house sales team are fully trained in using the configuration system, so if you prefer to hand this over to us - go ahead, we're more than happy to help. Get started with our team, all we need if your dimensions and usage requirements and we can start designing for you!
Understanding Configuration IDs
Once your design is complete, the configurator generates a unique reference ID containing all of your selected specifications. This acts as the blueprint for your system, including dimensions, finishes and internal components, you can do this my saving your design as a PDF and sending it over to us.
Sharing this reference with the Nest team allows us to:
- Review the design with you
- Confirm specifications and pricing
- Suggest practical refinements if needed
- Arrange ordering and delivery
It also means we can quickly revisit or amend your design later if your plans change.
Choosing colours & finishes
One of the most enjoyable parts of creating a bespoke system is selecting finishes. From understated neutrals to bold statement colours, the modular format lends itself to both subtle and expressive interiors.
Many clients choose timeless tones for larger units, while others introduce colour through smaller accent pieces or internal sections. Because components can be reconfigured later, there’s always flexibility to evolve the look over time.
Freestanding or wall secured?
Most smaller and mid-sized configurations are freestanding. However, larger or taller systems may require additional stabilisation depending on the proportions and intended use.
The configurator helps identify when wall fixing or counterbalancing may be recommended for safety and stability and our team are on hand to advise.
Lead times & delivery
Every bespoke USM Haller piece is made to order, which is part of what makes the system so versatile. Typical lead times are usually around six to eight weeks, depending on specification and availability.
Larger or more complex systems may also include installation support to ensure everything is assembled correctly and positioned perfectly within the space.
A long-term investment in flexibility
One reason USM Haller continues to remain relevant decades after its launch is that it’s designed around longevity rather than short-term trends. The modular construction allows owners to adapt pieces over time instead of replacing them completely.
For many people, that flexibility makes it feel less like buying furniture and more like building a system that evolves alongside their home.
And because of the modular nature of the system, USM Haller can be configured into far more than traditional storage — the possibilities are endless – from wardrobes and coffee tables to benches, TV units, bins and even unexpected everyday pieces like toilet roll holders.
Beyond the basics: Further customisation options
One of the most overlooked aspects of USM Haller is just how customisable the system can be beyond standard shelving and storage.
Alongside classic powder-coated panels, USM Haller is also available with:
- perforated metal panels
- elegant glass panels
- soft acoustic panels for a warmer, more tactile finish
There are also multiple base options available, including adjustable feet and castors, allowing configurations to feel more architectural, more mobile or better suited to specific spaces and functions.
For media units and workspace setups, integrated cable management solutions can also be incorporated to keep layouts feeling clean and considered.
Beyond the online configurator, there’s also a wider world of accessories available through Nest, including magnetic bookends, internal organisation options and specialist finishing details that allow each system to feel even more tailored.
Need help designing your system?
Whether you already have a configuration in mind or are starting completely from scratch, the Nest team can help guide you through layouts, sizing, finishes and ordering options.
We’re here to help you create a configuration that feels considered, functional and built around the way you live.
Already own a USM Haller piece?
Even if your existing USM Haller setup wasn’t originally purchased through Nest, our team can still help adapt, extend or reconfigure it.
Whether you’re looking to add new modules, change the layout, introduce new finishes or evolve a system for a different space, we can help you build on what you already own rather than starting again.
Our team at Nest are experts in everything you need to know about USM Haller and custom configurations. Contact us at info@nest.co.uk, call 0114 243 3000 or message us on Live Chat for help and advice.
Pleased with the config you've created? Tag us on Instagram @nest_co_uk and share your USM solution with us.
Images: With thanks to USM, Jordan Bunker @jordanbunker & Harry Spain @hryspn
