Savvy shoppers know that home furniture shopping can become a daunting task, especially when starting from scratch. Between the cost, size, material, color, and shape, there’s so much to consider! But, it doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Here are some easy tips to get the furniture shopping process off to a reasonable start.
1. Make a List and Prioritize: Write down all the items you’re looking for, and rank them in order of priority. Having a clear idea of exactly what you’re looking for is key. Don’t fret if your list is as long as your arm — go room by room, noting everything from the memory foam mattress to the sofa covers. Make sure to measure spaces where you plan on placing furniture and keep those measurements handy.
2. Start with the Essentials: Map out the basic items that each room needs. A living room typically consists of a sofa, arm or side chairs, TV stand, coffee table, and lighting. A bedroom generally consists of a bed, two nightstands, and a dresser. And, don’t forget the dining room — a table and chairs are all you need.
3. Go With Your Gut: It’s often best to go with your initial reaction. Ask yourself if the item fits in with the overall look and feel of your home. Will the sofa look and feel good for years to come? Do the armchairs fit the lifestyle of your family?
4. Embrace Color and Pattern: Don’t be afraid to break out of the neutral zone. Pops of color like throw pillows, curtains, rug, upholstery, and art are all a great way to introduce personality and texture into your home. For the larger pieces such as your sofa or chairs, you can use solid upholstery in a classic shade, but don’t be afraid to add a bright throw rug or eye-catching artwork to the room!
5. Think About Comfort: Remember that furniture is meant to be used, not just seen. Make sure the items you purchase are comfortable for sitting, lounging, and even sleeping on. This doesn’t just apply to your sofas and chairs — consider the material in the bed you choose. Do you prefer a softer mattress with a pillow top, or a firmer one with memory foam?
6. Don’t Forget Structure: As you’re picking out items, don’t just think about comfort and color. Give your furniture some support with sturdy metal or wood frames. Avoid lighter woods like pine, which may warp and break easily, and heavier woods like oak, which will require extra maintenance.
7. Look for Quality Craftsmanship: Attention to detail is key. Check for even stitching, smooth wood, solid construction, and joints that fit together tightly. Don’t be swayed by the “you get what you pay for” mentality. Take the time to find the best balance between quality, comfort, and visual appeal.
Considering cost and budgeting: When shopping for furniture, it’s best to have a budget in mind. Consider the level of use an item will get, and decide if it’s worth spending a bit more on a higher quality piece. If your budget is tight, it’s acceptable to purchase one or two quality pieces and complement with less expensive items.
Thrift-shopping and sales: Thrift stores are an amazing resource for furniture shopping, and oftentimes, you’ll find gems that have been refurbished and are in great condition. Also, check out local stores to find out when they have storewide sales or discounts on certain items you’re looking for.
Work with a designer: If thrifting and sales aren’t your thing, it’s worthwhile to invest in the services of an interior designer. With their expertise and experience, they can help you choose the perfect pieces for your home that combine beauty and comfort. Most have a relationship with vendors, which can make the shopping process fun and stress-free.
Sustainability and green furniture: The modern shopper is conscious of environmental concerns, and being eco-friendly can extend to furniture shopping. Consider investing in green pieces that have a combination of organic materials, low-VOC finishes, and sustainable sourcing. Do the research to see if the store you’re shopping at has these items.
Experimenting with smaller pieces: If you’re still hesitant to break the bank on a larger piece, start with small items, like accent chairs, side tables, and lamps. With these smaller pieces, you can easily experiment with various styles. Just mix and match and see what works best for your home.
Opting for multifunctional pieces: Furniture shopping can be made simpler if you look for key pieces to serve multiple purposes. Ottomans, for example, can double as extra seating or a side table. A chaise lounge is a great addition to any room as it can be used for a quick nap, reading, or additional seating.
Dressing up furniture: Buying furniture to suit a room doesn’t have to be an expensive venture. Once you’ve picked out the larger pieces, you can dress it up with some creative and inexpensive solutions such as accent pillows, wall art, and cozy throw blankets. You’ll be surprised at the amount of character these simple items can add to your space!