Furniture shopping can be daunting, especially when it’s done from the comfort of your home. No one wants to buy a piece of furniture without physically seeing it and trying it out first. But, with these 7 tips, you can feel confident and get the perfect piece the first time.
Firstly, know the measurements for the space in which you intend to place the item. This will keep you from buying something too big or too small, as well as from buying too much and potentially cluttering the space. Make sure to have the measurements of the entry way to your home ready too, or else you risk being unable to get the item through the door!
Secondly, be sure to consider all the functions of the item. Does it need to be closed or open storage? If it needs to be portable, then be sure to check the weight limit. If the item is reclining or a bed, ensure that the added weight might not be too much for the frame or mechanism.
Thirdly, do some research on the type of style you’re looking for. From farmhouse to modern minimalism there’s a myriad of styles to choose from. Once you know what you like, narrow your search down online and save images of your favorites.
Fourthly, take into consideration both the practicality, as well as the look of a piece. You want it to last and be comfortable, but you also don’t want the piece to clash with the rest of your decor. This balance oftentimes calls for a bit of compromise, but know that if the piece is quality enough, it can last just as long – and it’s worth taking a bit more time to find that one piece to match your style.
Fifthly, look for furniture that is adjustable in some way. If you’re not sure how much space you might need for a piece, look for one that you can adjust down the line. This goes for couches and chairs, as well as storage pieces.
Sixthly, check the customer reviews of the item you’re interested in. It’s one of the oldest tips in the book but it’s a surefire way to ensure you’re getting a durable and comfortable piece.
Finally, don’t buy without a return policy. This is the best way to hedge your bets in case the piece doesn’t fit, or if it’s not as comfortable as you expected.
Now that you know the basics, let’s take the next step in perfecting your furniture shopping. First, be mindful of the impact that the piece could have on the room. Be sure to assess if the piece ties in the room’s theme, either through colors, textures, or airy vibes.
Second, consider the cost of the piece and finest details. Furniture pieces of higher quality can often times be worth the investment as they provide comfort and reliability.
Third, plan for the future. When furniture shopping, make sure the piece you choose can move with you for years to come.
Fourth, make sure the room will fit the item as well. Even if the measurements fit in your eyes, sometimes the walls or the other furniture won’t, so plan it accordingly.
Fifth, shop with an eye for detail. Check for any signs of wear on the piece, such as cracking in the veneer, spacing of dowels, or tightening/loosening of joints.
Sixth, repurpose what furniture you already own. Don’t write off older stuff, as items can often be updated and used to save you money for bigger purchases.
Finally, don’t buy out of desperation; take a step back and be sure you’re comfortable with the items you’re ordering. Shopping online might be convenient, but you may be unknowingly sacrificing on quality.
Now that you’ve got the basics down, follow these steps and you’ll have the perfect furniture piece in no time. Shop wisely and confidently from the comfort of your own home; there’s no need to dread furniture shopping ever again. Establish a budget and stick to it, be mindful of sizes, plan for the future, shop by style, check reviews, avoid impulse decisions, and be sure to take full advantage of return policies – this is the key to successful home furniture shopping.
Find the perfect piece that fits the style of your space by considering the type of material and texture. Wooden furniture pieces can offer a warm, classic look and leather can bring a modern flair. Don’t be afraid to mix-up materials for an eclectic style, but ensure that the pieces all follow a cohesive visual story.
Think about low-maintenance. If you opt for pieces coated with a material that can be wiped off, then you’ll always have a stylish, presentable home. You won’t have to worry about upkeep, sitting down long interviews to care for your furniture, and you won’t worry that spills won’t ruin the material.
With a few savvy choices, you can achieve the look of a high-end store without the luxury prices. Thrift stores and furniture outlets offer furnishings for up to 50 percent off retail price for furniture, but you’ll have to do some digging to find the perfect pieces. That’s the thrill of the hunt, though!
It’s easy to assume that natural wood is the only way to go, but it’s not; setting media-room furniture to a high gloss can bring a bright, modern look to the space, and adding upholstered pieces to the bedroom can be both classy and comfortable. Mix in the same way you would in an outfit, don’t be afraid to mix pieces from different stores and eras.
Don’t forget to accessorize. The right pillows, curtains and rugs will help the room come together. Use them to add color, texture, and warmth into the space. Don’t forget to include a few subtle knick-knacks, too! Lastly, lighting matters. Don’t be afraid to try something bold with a statement piece – much like the garment you put on for an important night out, doing so can do wonders for the ambiance of your space.
Hit the market early and know what you’re looking for. Whether you shop in person or online, the choice is yours; summer, winter, or fall, it’s always the right time to furnish your home with your favorite pieces.