Three Costly Mistakes to Avoid When Buying Furniture Online
With all the online retailers right at your fingertips, it’s easier than ever to shop for furniture online. Just browse, click and voila! Your room makeover will be done before you know it. But hang on a second. Before you punch in your credit card number, make sure you avoid these three major mistakes of shopping for furniture online. It will save you a lot of headache and years of heartache.
(Design by Poplar Creek Interiors // 3D Rendering for Family Room)
MISTAKE #1: PURCHASING A FULL SET
One of the biggest temptations to “get the look” especially when you are a novice, is to purchase a matching “set,” such as a bedroom suite or sofa, love seat and arm chairs. This is the quickest way to a design lacking warmth and personalization. And if I may add, it limits the direction of your design. If you really LOVE a piece of furniture, buy one key item such as the bed, sofa or dining chairs and look for a different manufacturer for an item that compliments without being perfectly matching. You will be able to add more of your personal style in the room and create a unique and warm space for you and your guests to enjoy for years to come.
(Design by Poplar Creek Interiors // 3D Rendering for Guest Room)
Pro Tip: If you must purchase a full set because of the price difference or other reasons, there are some ways you can still avoid the matchy-matchy feel.
Choose coordinating colors, fabrics or textures to give a layered look. Or add details such as tufting, pleats, tassels or trims. Be careful not to go overboard, though. Always think customization even when purchasing retail.
(Design by Poplar Creek Interiors // Product Board for Guest Room)
Mistake #2: IGNORING SIZE & SCALE
When you are stuck at home and buying furniture online, the images we see online can often deceive the eye. It’s hard to judge the scale of furniture from a computer screen or mobile phone. Often, it can turn out to be either too big or too small for your space.
You might be thinking you are finally getting the room makeover done, but in reality it can be disappointing to find that the beautiful sofa does not fit through the main hallway and must be returned on the delivery truck. And who wants to deal with that hassle?
(Design by Poplar Creek Interiors // 3D Rendering for Bedroom)
When purchasing a few pieces, measure the rooms carefully and use the dimensions provided by the online retailer. But if you're decorating an entire room and ordering several pieces, it’s better to work with a design professional who can guide you to make the best use of your dollars.
Pro Tip: If you fall in love with a piece that is out of your size range, ask if it comes in different variations, or in a slightly different style which can be configured to fit within your space.
MISTAKE #3: PLAYING IT TOO SAFE
There’s no doubt that one benefit of shopping online is speed. But that shouldn't stop you from being adventurous. Playing safe and rushing through a major purchase like buying furniture online can result in a space that feels bland, generic and ultimately unsatisfying. Even if you are uncertain about your design style, you can still take small, measured risks every now and then.
(Design by Poplar Creek Interiors // 3D Rendering for Home Office)
For example, add a bold print, accessory or centerpiece to add some drama to your room. And if you grow tired of it, you can easily switch the look.
Pro Tip: You can also anchor light and breezy pieces with a colorful rug that looks like you travelled the globe to find it.
When it comes to purchasing furniture online, it shouldn’t be daunting or intimidating. Avoid these costly mistakes and you’ll find yourself coming home to a space you love!