Whether you're stepping into a new space or just refreshed your home with a remodel, your furniture will arguably be the most significant element in your design canvas. Each piece is more than its aesthetic appeal—it's a statement, a comfort zone, and a long-term investment. Your home is where life happens, and each carefully chosen piece of furniture contributes to those special moments. Learn how to choose the right furniture with these seven tips.
Understanding the layout and size of your space is crucial in solving the furniture puzzle. Before you fall in love with that cozy oversized armchair or that breathtaking minimalist sofa, you need to understand the space you're working with. Assessing your space means knowing its dimensions, the flow of natural light throughout the day, and the architectural features you want to play up or tone down to find the perfect fit. Furniture too big for a room quickly becomes oppressive, cramped, and uncomfortable. Conversely, small pieces in a large room can seem lost and insignificant. We live by the rule of measuring twice and purchasing once.
Furniture needs to do more than just look good. It has to serve a purpose that is functional for your lifestyle. If you love to entertain, investing in a dining table that can extend to host a dinner party is a functional must. Families with young children might consider easy-to-clean surfaces, while those who work from home could benefit from adjustable office chairs.
Your home reflects who you are, and its furniture should echo that sentiment. But how do you know which style is yours in a world with many design options? After working with you to design your space, the designers at OHi become very familiar with your likes, dislikes, and style. They are always willing to help you select furniture that fits your design's aesthetic and reflects your personality. You can also take some time to scroll through Pinterest, TikTok, and Instagram for inspiration and explore other showrooms. Once you've found a design style that resonates with you, consider how your furniture can reinforce that style. This could mean a vintage piece to add character to a mid-century modern setting or an ultra-modern couch to anchor a minimalist space.
A perfectly coordinated room can sometimes feel static. Mixing different styles can add depth and provide a more personalized touch to your space. You can follow specific guidelines to ensure your furniture pieces work well together. Harmony in colors, texture, and scale can tie seemingly disparate pieces into a single, well-coordinated look. Feel free to mix things up by adding an antique to a modern setting or pitting a rough, industrial coffee table against a luxurious velvet sofa. These juxtapositions can create visual excitement and help your space stand out.
Accessories are to furniture what punctuation is to a sentence. They offer personality, emphasis, and a polished finish to your overall design. When choosing accessories, think about the function they serve. A mirror accentuates a space and makes it seem more significant, while a rug can ground an area and offer comfort. The art of layering accessories should be thoughtful and keep your space neat. Accessories should echo but not necessarily match your furniture's style. This contrast can bring out the best in both the pieces and the overall design.
A well-thought-out budget can be the compass that guides your furniture-buying journey, ensuring you don't overextend yourself financially and can furnish your spaces first with what's most important. Consider your overall remodeling budget and allocate a portion to furniture. This amount may fluctuate based on the rooms you're furnishing and the pieces you need for each space. It’s essential to prioritize the pieces you must have, like a bed, to keep your spending focused. Remember to leave room for unexpected costs, such as delivery fees or any customizations you may require.
Regarding furniture, quality always wins out in the long term. The hunt for affordable pieces can sometimes land you with furniture that needs to be replaced in a few years. Investing in well-made pieces means they'll stay with you for a long time, sometimes even outlasting trends. Quality furniture is also more likely to withstand the test of time, whether in terms of wear and tear or lifestyle changes. There are ways to find affordable, high-quality furniture. Keep an eye out for sales, clearance items, estate sales, and flea markets, or consider purchasing directly from the manufacturer to save on retail markup. Also, many quality pieces may be more expensive upfront but save you from needing to replace them in the long run.
You should approach furniture shopping as an opportunity to bring your vision to life and the final piece to your home remodeling puzzle. A well-furnished space is one that not only reflects your style and values but also supports your lifestyle. By understanding your space, defining your style, setting a budget, and carefully selecting and arranging your furniture, you're securing the foundation of a beautiful and comfortable home. If you are on the furniture hunt and need guidance, contact us today; our finishing touches team would love to help you.
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