Home Refresh: How to Choose the Right Furniture

Tired of the same old look around your home? A few simple home refresh tips could be just what you need to give your space some pizzazz.​ With the right furniture choices, you can create a whole new feel in your interior.​ But how do you choose the right furniture?

Let’s start by doing a quick survey of your existing furniture.​ Mark down which pieces you love and which you feel are outdated.​ Jot down measurements and colors so you can get a better idea of what type of furniture is right for each room.​ Make sure you take your time and think about what you want to replace and what you want to keep.​

Next, take a look at different types of furniture.​ There’s a huge variety of pieces available on the market these days, so you can go for a timeless classic, a modern piece, or something in between.​ Ask yourself: which pieces work for you, and which ones don’t? Consider purchase options such as buying second-hand, renting or purchasing a handmade item.​ Or, why not upcycle an old piece of furniture and reimagine it for a new purpose?

Don’t forget to think about practicalities too.​ Measure the space in each room so you know exactly what size and shape of furniture you’ll need.​ If you’re buying a bed, for instance, think about the suitable mattress size, whether you’d like a frame or divan, and what types of storage space would work best for you.​ You can usually find furniture with integrated storage solutions too – perfect if space is at a premium.​

Lastly, aspire to reflect your individual style.​ Your home should be a reflection of who you are, not who someone else wants you to be.​ Take your time deciding which color scheme, fabrics and patterns work best for you.​ Take a look at photos of different furniture styles and colors – you can find inspiration everywhere.​ Even if it’s an eclectic mix of items, remember to mix and match colors and patterns to create a cohesive look.​ And don’t forget to add plants, artwork and decorations like books, trinkets and photo frames.​

Now, it’s time to make some decisions.​ When you’re shopping for furniture, be mindful of items that you like.​ Bear in mind, too, that some pieces cost more than others.​ From upholstered sofas to metal-framed beds, think about which pieces would work best in your budget.​ Also, consider where you’ll be buying your furniture from.​ Is it better for the environment to shop locally? Or should you go online? Make sure you get the best deal you can, no matter your choice.​

With the world of interior design ever-evolving, it’s important to think about durability.​ Look for furniture made from long-lasting materials.​ Is a fabric sofa more practical for your busy family home? Or does it make sense to use more durable leather? Consider how easy it would be to wash and maintain the furniture over the years.​

When it comes to living space, it’s important to make the most of the space you have.​ Multifunctional furniture that can expand or contract according to your needs can be a great investment.​ Wall-mounted shelving and storage can open up a room, allowing more light and ventilation.​ If in doubt, consult with a professional interior designer who can help you make the right choice of furnishing.​

At the end of the day, remember it’s you who needs to be happy with your furniture choices.​ Whether it’s buying off the shelf or investing in custom-made pieces, make sure they add value to your life and home.​ Do your research and consider each purchase carefully before you hit the buy button.​ Look at comfort, reliability, cost, the environment, size and timelessness before you make your pick.​

When it comes to style, there’s no right or wrong choice.​ Do you prefer a cozy, bohemian look? Or do you much prefer a minimalist approach? Maybe you have an eye for modern and contemporary? Try to strike the right balance of colors, textures and finishes.​ If you think things through and mix and match well, you’ll end up with a look you’ll love.​

Go for furniture pieces that are well-built and have good support.​ Consider the frame material and the exact revamping options available, and make sure you choose the right type of cushion for your needs and preferences.​ Pay attention to your lifestyle and habits, and choose pieces that offer convenience without sacrificing style.​

Throwing in some accent pieces can be a great way to add design flair.​ Think rugs to complement a room’s palette, or pillows to add interest and texture.​ Maybe you need an extra lamp for your study area? Soft furnishings like curtains, drapes and blinds add to the overall look and atmosphere of your space.​ Whatever style you go for, make sure it’s something you’ll love for years to come!