Furniture and Upholstery Buying Guide
Choosing the right furniture is one of the most important investments you will make for your home.
Finding furniture that perfectly balances style, comfort, and durability doesn't have to be overwhelming. This guide will help you make confident decisions that you'll love for years to come, whether you're furnishing your first home or updating your current space.
Measure twice, buy once!
Before you fall in love with that gorgeous sofa online, grab your measuring tape! Measure not just where the furniture will go, but also doorways. Maybe create a simple floor plan sketch or use your phone to take photos with measurements written on them.
We offer a measuring service if you are unsure about the right sizes for you, or access in to your property.
Know your lifestyle
Be honest about how you live. Do you have kids who'll jump on the sofa? Love hosting dinner parties? Need storage for hiding clutter? A beautiful white fabric sofa might not be practical if you have pets, but a stylish leather one could be perfect. Think about your daily routines and choose furniture that works with your life.
Set a realistic budget
Quality furniture is an investment, but that doesn't mean you need to break the bank. Decide what you can comfortably afford and stick to it. It's better to buy fewer, higher-quality pieces than to fill your space with furniture that won't last. Most of our furniture is factory assembled, or assembly is included in the cost, so there are no hidden extra charges to account for in your budget.
Size it right
Furniture that's too big overwhelms a room, while pieces that are too small can look lost. Leave enough space to move around comfortably – you should be able to walk around your dining table even when chairs are pulled out. For sofas, ensure there's enough seating for your family plus a guest or two.
Storage solutions
In today's homes, storage is king. Look for beds with drawers, ottomans that open up, or entertainment centres with closed storage to hide clutter. Even small storage features can make a big difference in keeping your space organised and peaceful.
Comfort is key
You'll be using this furniture daily, so comfort matters as much as looks. Test sofas and chairs for the right firmness – too soft and you'll sink in uncomfortably, too firm and it won't be relaxing. For dining chairs, make sure they're the right height for your table and comfortable enough for long conversations over dinner.
Protect your investment
Follow care instructions from day one. Use coasters, rotate cushions regularly, and clean spills immediately. Consider professional fabric protection for upholstered pieces, especially if you have children or pets. A little prevention goes a long way in keeping your furniture looking new.
Our protection plans can cover your upholstery against accidental damage, pet damage, stains and dye transfer.
Ask the right questions
Don't be afraid to ask our team about delivery timeframes, assembly requirements, fabric protection options and warranties. We want you to be happy with your purchase and will take time to answer your questions thoroughly.
Regular maintenance
Dust wooden furniture regularly and use appropriate cleaners and polishes. Vacuum upholstered pieces regularly, paying attention to crevices where pet hair and crumbs hide. Tighten screws and hardware periodically – furniture naturally loosens with use.
Know when to call the professionals
Some maintenance is best left to experts. Professional cleaning for upholstery, refinishing for wooden pieces, and repairs for structural issues will often save money compared to replacement. Build relationships with local craftspeople who can help maintain your furniture investment. Our protection plans can cover the cost of professional cleaning and repairs in case of accidents.
The showroom effect
Furniture often looks smaller in large showrooms than it will in your home. Always check actual dimensions and visualize the piece in your space. Take photos of your room on your phone and refer to them while shopping.
Sacrificing quality for price
It's tempting to go with the cheapest option, but poor-quality furniture often needs replacing quickly, making it more expensive in the long run. It's better to save up for quality pieces or buy fewer items initially than to fill your home with furniture that won't last.
Ignoring your lifestyle
That gorgeous glass coffee table might look amazing, but if you have young children, it's probably not practical. Choose furniture that fits how you actually live, not how you think you should live.
Don't rush!
Good furniture decisions take time. Don't feel pressured to buy everything at once. Live with pieces for a while before adding more – you might discover your needs are different than you initially thought.
Remember, the best furniture for you is pieces that you love, that fit your space and lifestyle, and that are built to last. Take your time, do your research, and don't be afraid to invest in quality pieces that will serve you well for years to come.