Interior design and decorating can be exciting for some homeowners, especially if they’ve grown bored with their home’s old look. Thankfully, all that’s needed to give a home a makeover is some well-planned furniture shopping. But before you head out to your local furniture stores, check out these three tips on finding the right solutions for your home:
Consider your personal style.
Not all furniture stores are created equally. Some stores focus solely on discounted furniture, for instance, while others offer custom options for those who want something unique. There’s also the matter of style. Are you more country Victorian or modern? Do you want a coastal or beach atmosphere in your home, or do you prefer something contemporary and sparse? Shop around to get an idea of what you’d like if you’re not sure. You can also research on the internet or talk to the experts at furniture stores, so you can get some interior design advice.
Set a budget, but know when to spend a bit more.
That trendy furniture store that gets featured on GOOP or is known for its celebrity clientele may seem tempting to visit. However, if you’re not looking to spend tens of thousands of dollars (or more) to revamp your home, it’s likely not a good fit. This doesn’t mean that you can’t find great furniture for your home, though. Furniture can range from low-priced bargains to luxury designer items, so make sure you know how much you can spend. Don’t be afraid, though, to go a bit higher if you find something truly one of a kind, and see where you can trim your budget elsewhere.
Compare and contrast.
Furniture is an investment, so it’s important to take the time to consider what you really want. Think five or even ten years down the road: will you need to replace your furniture — or want to? If you’re looking for something that will last you for a long time, consider quality, as well. Choose materials that will hold up, like hardwoods, rather than cheap materials that break down and scratch up floors, like metal, plastic, and rubber. If you need to, take a picture of your rooms for reference, and gather fabric swatches to take home. This way you can be sure to choose a piece that will fit in with your home.
Have more questions about furnishing a home? Ask us in the comments.