What to look for when buying furniture

Knowing the Difference

Everyone wants great furniture. Great design, high quality, functional, long lasting, easy to maintain, affordable, sustainable furniture. Well….. you might not get all of those, but you can learn about what qualities make great furniture, and what to look for. 

There seems to be lots of confusion surrounding the idea of how to buy furniture. Most people want to know the difference even though they may not be able to afford great furniture, they do want to know what to look for and understand why it's important. 

Race to the bottom

Most people have heard the term “fast fashion”. It refers to cheaply made clothing sold at a very low price, only to be worn a few times before it wears out, rips and has to be purchased again. Well, the same principle has been applied to furniture. A race to the bottom where no one, but the companies making a profit, is winning. The lure of buying furniture at the lowest possible cost only to have it break and purchased again is a cycle that needs to be broken. So, how do we fight back against this cycle. 

What to look for

Many manufactures use phrases like, “made from wood”, “durable finish”, and “built in the US”, to attract unsuspecting customers. Made from wood can mean nothing more than compressed wood pellets, or sawdust shaped like wood. Durable finish can mean plastic veneer, or vinyl composite wood grain finish. Built in the US can mean poorly made parts made overseas assembled by workers in the US. 

Quality furniture is made from solid hardwood, and may include high quality veneer plywood. It should be joined permanently, with glue when it can be. It should also have high quality hardware such as hinges, drawer slides and pulls. It should have a natural feeling oil or water based finish, durable enough to withstand its intended purpose. 

Style

Trends come and go, classic designs last a lifetime. When considering large furniture purchases, like tables and couches, consider neutral classic design. Trendy decor can always add life to your space, and is easily changed out when your taste changes. Some classic furniture styles include Mid-century modern, Shaker, and Arts and Crafts. Each uses simple lines, neutral wood color, and few embellishments. 

We understand how frustrating the furniture buying process can be. We also understand not everyone is ready for custom made. What we do hope is that everyone understands what makes good furniture, and what makes ours great.