Good dining room furniture is one of the most important finishing touches on any home. Furniture is also pricey, usually being the most expensive thing people buy after their home and car. It’s important to take the time to invest in good materials that look good, are functional, and will stand the test of time. Whether you’re furnishing your first home or looking to redecorate, here are three things to keep in mind as you buy new pieces for your dining room.
Take Your Home’s Existing Design Into Account
If you want to try out a new color palette or style, it may be tempting to throw caution to the winds and experiment on your living or dining room. However, making drastic changes to a public area of the house will make your whole design discordant and off-kilter. You can experiment with spare bedroom furniture or guest bathroom furniture, but for your dining area, make sure the furniture and palette go with the rest of the home. Many people choose to design their living room around the sofa and living room furniture; your dining room furniture, therefore, should have a similar look and feel with the other public areas.
Think Carefully Before you Go Vintage
Over half of all US consumers prefer vintage pieces, but you should do some research and invest in vintage pieces carefully. While some contend that “everything was made better in the old days,” some antique pieces may have structural damage that mean they aren’t worth the investment. In addition, some vintage pieces may be extremely heavy or difficult to use, and may not be practical investments. Experts say that vintage dining tables and sideboards are often a good investment, but dining room chairs may be cumbersome, uncomfortable, or too small. In that instance, you can look for pieces that may match (and have more structural integrity) at a boutique furniture store.
Invest in Eco-Friendly Furniture
Wood dining room furniture is always classic and is inherently made from a sustainable material, but you can always take it one-step farther by working with environmentally-friendly brands. Buying area rugs made from recycled materials or buying products that aren’t made with harsh chemicals are great ways to take care of the planet. You can also lower your carbon footprint by investing in locally made furniture.
When in doubt, consult with an expert at a quality furniture store for support. In-home furniture usually lasts at least 15 years, so be sure you do your research to find the perfect fit for you.
