Furnishing your first apartment from scratch? Looking for new pieces for a lived-in space? Buying furniture can be a daunting task. Follow these foolproof tips to make sure you find and buy dream furniture that lasts! We’ve compiled a handy checklist of things you can do to streamline the process.
Identify What You Need
Before opening a catalog or browsing a store, make a list of what you need from your furniture. Furniture should be functional, fit the dimensions of the space, and suit your budget too. When you are clear about what your needs and limitations are, you’re less likely to make an impulse buy or get swayed by the attractive displays in the store.
Know Your Style
If you’re unsure of the kind of furniture you like, create a vision board of pictures and styles that appeal to you. Mid-century modern furniture is a popular choice and suits a variety of modern homes. American Colonial furniture lends a home a traditional, classic air. Rustic furniture instantly makes a room feel cozy. Buying furniture becomes a lot more fun when you know what style you’re looking for. You might even get lucky and find the styles you want in unlikely places.
Consider Eco-Friendly Furniture
Eco-friendly furniture uses materials sourced from sustainable forests and has a lower level of toxic materials. It is also manufactured locally, and the pieces are more durable. Whatever your preference in style, you are sure to find a sustainable, planet-friendly option that suits your budget too. Just beware of manufacturers who ‘greenwash’ or manipulate their customers about how sustainable their furniture is.
Pay Attention to The Construction of The Piece
Don’t buy furniture on sight. Check the dresser drawers and that the door hinges on cupboards and cabinets are properly aligned. It would be best if you also inspected how the different pieces of wood in a single item are joined. Avoid furniture that has glue or staples holding the frame in place. This is a sure indication of poor quality. A well-constructed piece of furniture has joints that are dovetailed or use screws or dowels. It would be best if you avoided furniture that wobbles. Check the finish of a piece by running your hand over the surface.
