Consider the design. Besides showing a classic style, examine the furniture you're eying on for excellent design. Knockoffs of
successful designs abound in the market. Some of them are carefully made but many don't meet decent standards.
Think of function - Where are you going to place the furniture? How is it going to be used? Your answer to both questions will prod you to think about durability over the physical appearance of the furniture. If you're table will be used on a daily basis to hold stuff that are quite heavy, it has to be made of sturdy wood with finishing that can survive unwanted spills and scratches. Is your sofa going to be placed by the window? If yes, check whether its fabric is going to survive the wear and tear sunlight can bring.
Choose quality over quantity - Quality furniture is usually expensive but you can expect it to stand the test of time. Think about this, you can always save with few quality furniture than many substandard ones. With the latter, you will need to buy replacements over and over once they get broken. In total, that would mean more money spent on your end.
Do you buy furniture impulsively? This can be a wasteful practice especially when your pick doesn't live up to your expectations. To beat that experience, read through the following tips that can help you buy furniture wisely.
Test it. Ask the sales man if you can sit on it. A good sofa, for one, must be able to provide extra room for sitting and the arms and legs are more substantive.
Lift it. Is it heavy? A good chair, table, or sofa is made of more raw material, such as springs, frame, and cushion, and will be heavier than a lower quality piece of the same material.
Scrutinize the finish. An even, rich, and deep paint or stain finish should not be used to camouflage flaws. If the finish is translucent, it should be even and the grain should show through; if it is an opaque finish, the consistency should be even, never bubbled or showing brush strokes. Wicker and rattan pieces should be smooth without splinters or ends sticking out, and weaves should be tight and uniform and never clogged with paint.
