Furniture

The Ultimate Guide to Shopping for Quality Furniture

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The Ultimate Guide to Shopping for Quality Furniture

Perhaps one of the most exciting parts of buying a new home is the accompanying new furniture that invariably comes along with it. The kitchen, the bedrooms, the living room. They all need new furnishings. After all, who wants to put their old furniture in a new home?

Or maybe your family is experiencing growing pains, welcoming a new family member aboard. In cases like this, you need to get furniture as soon as possible. But you may just need some help furnishing the home and finding the right quality furniture to create a stylish yet comfortable living area. With that in mind, read on for some tips on shopping for quality pieces.

Cost Matters

Cost Matters

As much as you’d love to go out and buy anything your little heart desires, cost does matter. However, you can pick out quality pieces on a budget.

Quality pieces can undoubtedly set you back a bit, so consider this when setting your budget.  Keep in mind that investing in high-quality, durable furniture can save you money in the long run, as you won’t need to replace items as frequently.

Inspect Pieces Up and Down

When looking at that crib, dining room table, or sofa, really look at it! What are you looking for? First of all, solid wood construction. High-quality furniture is primarily made from hardwoods, so look for oak, maple, or cherry.

What you DON’T want is particle board or MDF (medium-density fiberboard).  Look over the joints to make sure they’re secured with dovetails or dowels as opposed to glue or nails.

Consider the Upholstery

Consider the Upholstery

Examine the cloth used for upholstery, looking for prime fabrics such as leather, wool, or linen. And remember that even though the print may be stylish or cute, thin, flimsy fabrics wear out quickly. This is especially true on high-traffic items like the living room sofa.

Comfort is King

While yes, you do want the pieces to look nice, you want even more for them to be comfortable. So, when shopping for seating, for example, sit on the sofa, chair, or bed and asses its comfort level.

Don’t be afraid to stretch out the couch or bed to test how it fits with size and frame. Note the depth of the seat and how high the backrest goes. Also, pay attention to the overall support it provides.

In-Person Beats Online Anytime

In-Person Beats Online Anytime

Whenever possible, go to the storeroom or warehouse in person to inspect the times before buying. Pictures can’t do a quality piece justice but can make a poorly made item look better.

Take in the quality, comfort, and appearance for yourself without relying on photoshopped pictures. Inspect the hardware, looking at the drawer pulls and handles and making sure they are attached well and function smoothly. Then, if they have the item you like, you’ll have increased peace of mind buying it.

Warranty

Before handing over your credit card, ask about the store’s warranty and return policies. Quality furniture should come with a manufacturer’s warranty that covers defects in materials or workmanship for a specified period. You may also be able to purchase extended warranties or protection plans for an additional cost.

Follow these guidelines, do the research, and compare your options. And one piece of advice above all else. Invest in timeless pieces: Choose classic, versatile styles that will remain in fashion for years to come rather than trendy pieces that may quickly go out of style.

 

William Eames
William Eames, with a background in industrial design brings over 18 years of experience in design and architecture. He joined our editorial team in 2019, offering insights into design trends and architectural innovations. Before this, William ran his design studio and lectured at various universities. His hobbies include photography and sustainable gardening, reflecting his commitment to aesthetics and the environment.

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