Everyone wants quality furniture. Whether you keep things simple with practical options, value comfort above all else or opt for aesthetics or prestige, quality is undoubtedly sought after.
Natural materials such as linen and leather are known for their breathability and have a porous nature so humidity is absorbed.
"Unfortunately there is a common misconception that you have to settle for either quality or affordability. This is not necessarily true. The ideal is to combine class with value for money,” says Anton Odendaal from Rochester furniture stores.
Times are tough, so it is understandable that affordability is at the top of many people’s list of priorities. However, Odendaal says a big mistake that is often made when buying furniture, is to base a decision only on price and it ends up costing more - you compromise important attributes of inherent excellence.
He says if you calculate the cost of replacing low quality furniture every two to five years, instead of every six to ten years, it will end up costing more in the long-run. "Buying furniture is financially the most viable when seen as a long-term investment.”
He says there are many benefits of quality furniture that are often overseen. As with any other costly purchase, one should research well. Odendaal suggests homeowners look at their lifestyle and priorities and see what quality attributes are important to them.
1. Robustness
Quality furniture uses superior materials and techniques, resulting in robust, hard-wearing items. A strong material is only as strong as the way it has been assembled and good upholstery has a higher ripping resistance. These are important factors for young families and high traffic areas.
2. Better value
Invest in the best you can afford, rather than skimp on quality when buying furniture.
The longer the lifespan of the furniture, the better value for money. Buying furniture is not like buying a fashion item, but rather something worth saving for, since it will be part of your life for many years. Invest in the best you can afford, rather than skimp on quality.
3. Comfort
Quality cannot always be seen, but it can be felt. A well designed couch will be ergonomic, ensuring comfort and support in all the right places, regardless of the style. Take a seat when choosing furniture to do the test. If you don’t want to get up, you are in the presence of greatness.
4. Easy care
Most quality items will need very little cleaning due to its finishes, or it will endure cleaning better. It is worth giving upholstery a stain-resistant treatment although it costs a bit extra, but it is easier to soak up spills, leaving your upholstery looking good for longer. Good fabric won’t change colour or become fluffy if a light scrubbing is needed.
5. Breathable
Natural materials such as linen and leather go hand in hand with luxury and are known for their breathability. Due to the porous nature humidity is absorbed, so you don’t sweat in summer.
6. Flame resistant
Natural fabrics are usually more expensive, but also more flame resistant and won’t melt, giving you extra peace of mind.
7. In shape
A unique bold sofa or chair also works well as a focal point and custom designs give you the peace of mind that you won't have the same furniture as everyone else.
Quality fabric and padding will keep its original shape for many years. Stretched and buckled upholstery looks tatty and is uncomfortable to sit on.
8. Ages well
Elegant leather grows in value over time. The fabric molds to the body’s shape, changes colour and can get the worn, old-world look that turns it into a unique collectors’ piece.
9. One of a kind
Custom-made furniture pieces, where you can choose from a wide range of designs, finishes and coverings, give you the freedom to create a unique interior so you can rest assured that the neighbour's lounge won’t look like yours. A unique bold sofa or chair also works well as a focal point.
10. Self-esteem
Why embarrass yourself trying to hide stains and buckled upholstery behind throws and scatter cushions. With quality furniture the whole family can invite friends or colleagues over with confidence, knowing the lounge looks respectable and elegant at all times.
Odendaal says when manned with the necessary knowledge, you can make your own informed decision, knowing that there is more to buying furniture than meets the eye.
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