Over the course of the past century, we have witnessed the rise of mass manufacturing and the subsequent decline of artisan-made, small batch production in virtually every industry. The world of home furnishings is no exception. Customers can order cheap, quick furniture online and have it delivered within days – but there are hidden costs to the convenience. Fine furnishings, on the other hand, require a larger up-front investment but also provide lasting value and cut costs in the long run. Not convinced? Here are three major comparisons to consider when deciding between fine furniture and mass-produced pieces:
Longevity vs. Convenience
The practices and materials used to build a piece of furniture directly impact its lifespan. Our fine furnishings are made to last by skilled craftsmen who construct each piece with quality and precision in mind. Our manufacturers focus on durable materials like solid wood to ensure their products can last for years – and even be passed down through generations. Mass-produced pieces, however, cut manufacturing costs by using cheap materials like particle board and plastics. Big-box stores often assemble and finish furniture with glue-heavy construction and harsh chemicals. These flimsy construction practices make mass-produced furnishings highly breakable and even harmful for environmental and personal health. In the end, you will need to replace a “cheap” sofa 2 or 3 times within the lifespan of 1 quality sofa (not to mention that you won’t be nearly as comfortable with the cheap options!).
Intentional Design vs. the Uninspired Machine
When our manufacturers create a piece, they carefully design it with beauty and functionality in mind. Fine furniture is made to be both stylish and durable, and pieces are often customizable to the individual. For example, when you order a dining table from Gat Creek, you get to choose the size, shape, finishes, and even the leg style. Thoughtful design makes furniture feel more “human” and unique; therefore, it retains its value and appeal. Mass-produced furniture lacks this intentional quality, since pieces are made in a one-size-fits-all fashion. There is no lasting value to a machine-made piece that millions of other people also own. A custom-made, solid wood piece becomes more valuable with time as it is passed down between generations and eventually becomes a priceless heirloom.
Sustainability vs. Waste
While fine furniture does require a larger upfront investment, it is also able to be repaired, refinished, and can last for decades or even generations. Over time, you will spend more money on furnishing your home if you must continually replace cheap pieces that break and wear down easily. In addition to the financial toll of mass-produced furniture, there is also an environmental cost to consider. Big-box stores manufacture pieces in excess, creating an enormous amount of waste and irresponsibly consuming environmental resources. Mass-manufacturing floods showrooms with hundreds of thousands of the same pieces that may or may not sell. In contrast, our manufacturers use environmentally friendly construction practices and implement a made-to-order system that reduces wasteful inventory.
At Reid’s Fine Furnishings, we are here to help you find quality furnishings that act as a lasting investment for you and your family. Plus, with a variety of manufacturers to choose from, we can pair you with pieces that fit your style and your budget. Visit our Roanoke showroom today to learn more about how we can make your dream space a reality!
