Furniture Stores Offer Concierge Services and Showrooms
While many retailers have shifted to online-only business models, some furniture stores still offer bricks and mortar showrooms and concierge services that make buying furnishings easy and enjoyable. Whether you’re looking for a sofa or an entire bedroom set, there are plenty of options out there that will meet any budget and style.
Furniture store showrooms let you see and touch the pieces up close and can help you envision them in your space before making a purchase. In contrast, when you shop online, you’re limited to photos and descriptions of each piece, which can be hard to get a true sense of how they’ll look in your home.
Visiting a furniture store can also provide an opportunity to compare pricing and quality from different brands and retailers, which can be a boon for cost-conscious shoppers who want the best value. Some showrooms also feature free shipping or return policies, which can be helpful for buyers who are shopping on a tight deadline.
If you’re on a tight budget, check out thrift and consignment stores in your area for gently used furniture at a fraction of the retail price. Many of these retailers specialize in specific types of furniture, such as office or patio furniture, and may also carry related decor and accessories. You can often find great deals on items like a coffee table or dresser, but it’s important to examine each item for damage and stains before you buy.
Many furniture stores feature a range of design services that can make the buying and delivery process much easier for busy homeowners. For instance, some offer white glove delivery where a professional will haul away your old furniture and set it up in your new space, while others offer fabric swatches or customization to ensure the final product is exactly what you wanted.
Manufacturer branded furniture stores are good for those who know what they want and are looking to simplify their shopping experience. These one-stop shops typically have a limited selection but focus on the brand, and may offer perks such as extended warranties or maintenance plans.
Specialty furniture stores may focus on a particular type of room, such as the living room or dining room. These stores are good for interior designers and consumers who already have an idea of what they need.
Warehouse membership furniture stores can be good for those who are looking to save money on high-quality furniture for a small upfront investment. These stores typically offer wholesale discounts in exchange for an upfront membership fee and can include everything from chairs to linens to lamps and other decor.
The first IRL Industry West store opened last year in Soho and stocks the brand’s latest furniture along with its most popular best-sellers. Plus, trained professionals are on hand to guide shoppers through the furniture-customization process and produce a unique final product that’s exactly what they wanted.
