Creating the Ideal Home: Tips for Furniture Selection
FURNITURE
Purchasing furniture for your log house should be a pleasant and exciting experience, not a chore on par with going to the dentist. But, for far too many homeowners, that is precisely what occurs when they are faced with the idea of purchasing couches, chairs, tables, and accent items.
I'm here now to tell you exactly what you'd like to hear: it doesn't have to be this way. With a little foresight and planning? + some soul-searching and research? You may have as much fun shopping for furniture as you can cuddling up on that new sofa. If you follow these eight simple steps, your furniture hunt will finish happily and stress-free.
1 - Set the budget
The bottom line for every design endeavor, including furniture purchases, is what you can afford. Budgeting becomes even more crucial throughout the furniture purchasing process since large pieces—sofas, couches, chairs, and tables—are sometimes the most expensive component of any design job.
2 - Differentiate your Wants from Needs
Determine what you want to spend your money on after you've created a budget. Your "wishes" list is likely to be lengthy. Reduce it by comparing it to a "needs" list. Replacing a damaged chair is most likely a need; purchasing that gorgeous dining room set you saw in the sales flyer is most likely want.
The secret to prioritizing is to recognize that you don't have to have everything at once. While making your priority list, give it some thought. Can you live with your old kitchen furnishings while you renovate your living room? Would you rather create an oasis in your bedroom before focusing on public spaces such as the kitchen and dining room? Or are the recreation room and other heavily utilized areas more important?
Do what you like, keep in mind that furniture with classic lines and basic textiles will never go out of style, which means you'll be able to piece together your new space over the course of months or even years.
3 - Assess and know-how is your Lifestyle
One of the most essential factors is how you utilize your furniture. If you have children or dogs, you'll need a strong frame and easy-to-clean materials. If you're decorating a space that will be used seldom, such as a library or den, you may put greater emphasis on aesthetics.
The colors you pick will also be influenced by your lifestyle.
The rules are quite straightforward: white is off-limits for children and dogs, but mid- to dark-toned patterns may cover a multitude of faults. However, keep in mind that even the most durable furniture can wear out if it is misused.
4 - Examine the Space you have
There is only so much furniture that can be placed in a room before it becomes crowded and uncomfortable. On the other side, you'll want to make sure there's enough seating and table space.
Take the time to thoroughly plan (if you're still in that stage) or measure (if you're currently building or living in your log house) each room in your home to ensure your new furniture suits your area, needs, and personality.
5 - Do not forget about your comfort!
Don't be scared to put the furniture samples you see on the shop floor through their paces. Nothing is more frustrating than spending a lot of money on furniture only to find out it's as hard as a rock, sags like a damp blanket, or sits too high or low.