- Right-sized furniture – Overlarge is fine…if you have an overlarge room. Generally better to select furniture that fits easily into the room you have selected and that gives you space to move about and flexibility to rearrange. Don’t get too small, too. And think about how many people will need to be seated? If you have a large family, you’re going to need a lot of chairs, or a big sofa, or both, or bean chairs that can also be used outside… Or do you have teenagers who prefer to hand out in their rooms?
- Sofas and chairs – Are these for lounging in a TV room or snug, or for a visitors’ space where the demand is slightly more formal? L-shaped and modular sofas are very popular because they’re comfortable for lounging and provide a shape that encourages socialising. high-backed, firmer sofas and chairs can be more suitable for spaces where you welcome visitors for coffee or wine, or perhaps match a firmer sofa with a relaxed armchair. And don’t forget pouffes and ottomans – flexible, modern and great for chats with friends.
- Room Decor – Interior design is a broad and challenging area. There are so many distinct design styles that it can be hard to choose one, so be glad the list includes ‘Eclectic’ (which means a whole bunch of different styles thrown together). If you’re after a particular look and feel, buy furniture to fit. If you’re not fussed, then buy what you like and mix and match – it can lead to a wonderfully fun and unique outcome.
- Fabric Colours and Materials – If you have small children or dogs, white may not be a great choice for your sofa. If you eat at your sofa while watching TV, as so many of us do these days, then fabric that can withstand food and drink spills is essential (and add in a coating to further protect and make it easier to clean). You have the choice of going with neutrals, to keep everything to a mellow tonal range, or choose a strong colour to make a statement. There’s no ‘wrong’ here, and you can even go the ‘Maximalist’ approach and have EVERYTHING bright and full-on. It’s up to you and what you like.
If you can afford it, there are shops that import top designer furniture from the US, Italy and France and where sofas are tens of thousands of dollars and more. If you’re on a budget, however, there are shops that sell designs at more of a mid-price point. Google ‘designer furniture’ and start from there. Compare designs and prices. Have a look at TradeMe – you never know your luck, but be specific in what you’re after when you search.
You’ll never regret having great furniture in your home.