Coordinating Furniture Styles
The quality and style of the furniture in a home says a great deal about the people who live there. Are you formal or casual? Do you like formal suites, antiques, or furniture that's casual and easy to clean? First-time homeowners usually do not have enough furniture to have a complete set in every room. And, the cost of refurnishing a whole room is too great for many budgets. Don't sacrifice quality to buy a complete grouping. Purchase the most needed and versatile pieces first. A bed and a dresser are obvious first pieces. A table can also double as a desk if money and space are tight. Because you may never purchase the whole set, select a style that will stay stylish even if trends change. Choose a style that fits with other pieces and carries the overall atmosphere of the home. If you are buying new furniture to match antiques or other styles, select pieces that will complement the features of the furniture you already own. Analyze the form, scale, and character to see if the pieces work well together. Families move more today than they have in the past. This can be an important consideration when buying furniture. If you know you may be moving often, do not commit to a furniture style that only looks good in a certain style house. The pieces you select should be able to adapt well to many different settings. The type of atmosphere you want to create will affect the kind of furniture you buy. Traditional, classical furniture is very formal; simple wood furniture is "homey;" contemporary is sleek and exciting. The furniture style and function should fulfill the needs and activities of the people using it. If there are children or pets, the furniture should not be elaborate or excessive, but durable. Easy maintenance is another important factor to consider when selecting furniture. It is important to know if the material is going to require extra care or just regular cleaning. With today's lifestyles, maintenance is something that should not be overlooked. Most of all, the furniture should function well in the space. It should be efficient, attractive, and livable. Quality furniture will be around for a long time and, if it is chosen properly, it can be a worthwhile and beautiful investment.
Published by the Board of Trustees of the University of Illinois
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