Buying furniture is an important decision that can greatly impact the look and functionality of your space. Whether you’re furnishing a new home or simply updating your interior decor, making informed choices is essential. To help you navigate the furniture-buying process, here are some expert tips to consider.
Know What You’re Looking for
Before purchasing furniture, develop at least a general idea of what you’re looking for. Consider the purpose of the furniture, the space you have, and the style you desire. Do you need patio furniture or pieces to make a bedroom more comfortable? Are you furnishing a purely functional space or a family room that needs to exude charm and comfort? Factors like these will help you narrow down your options and fine-tune your shopping adventures.
Measure Your Space
From there, be sure to measure the space you’re furnishing. Furniture never looks the same on a website or in a showroom as it does in an actual home. To make matters even more complicated, seeing the dimensions of a piece of furniture in writing isn’t nearly the same as actually experiencing them in person.
Think about aspects like the size of the room and other furniture, fixtures, and electronics that may be in place. Avoid blocking light switches, HVAC vents, and electrical outlets. Don’t forget to measure doors, hallways, and staircases to be sure you can actually get the furniture into the space in question.
Consider Functionality
Functionality is an important element to consider as well. These days, quite a few pieces of furniture are capable of serving multiple purposes. Coffee tables, ottomans, and benches can offer extra storage. Sofas may feature additional storage compartments and built-in speakers and phone chargers. Those are only a few of the possibilities. On the most basic level, be sure the furniture you choose meets the needs you’re hoping to fulfill, like providing seating or creating a space for drinks and snacks.
Keep Quality and Durability in Mind
Quality and durability are crucial, too. Be sure to purchase furniture from a reputable manufacturer to get the highest possible level of quality. Few things are more disappointing than buying what appears to be the perfect piece of furniture only to have it fade and fall apart within a few months. A sturdy build and durable fabrics factor into the equation here along with other elements.
Think about how well the furniture will hold up to repeated use and abuse as well. How many people will be using the furniture? Could keys, wallets, shoes, and other hazards be a problem? If so, be sure the furniture you’re considering is made to withstand such issues. For outdoor furniture, be sure the pieces you purchase are made of moisture-resistant materials that are easy to clean. Composite and vinyl are optimal choices in this arena, but several others are also available.
Don’t Forgo Comfort
Comfort shouldn’t be ignored when choosing furniture. Many people overlook the importance of this factor, placing a higher priority on design, style, and appearance. No matter how attractive a piece is, though, if it’s not comfortable, it’s ultimately going to be a waste of money. From plushness and layout to height and width, several factors can contribute to or detract from the overall comfort of a piece of furniture. Linen, canvas, and cotton are a few of the upholstery options that are as comfortable as they are durable and beautiful.
Finding the Perfect Furniture
By following these expert tips, you’ll be well-equipped to purchase furniture that not only meets your needs but also enhances the overall ambiance of your space. Remember to prioritize quality, comfort, and functionality. Keep those factors in mind when browsing pieces that meld with your style. Countless pieces are on the market that can accommodate the full range of needs and expectations without leaving style out of the mix.
