If you are setting up your first home and unsure about what you will really need, here is a list of top picks from Interior decorators for first-time furniture buyers.
A Bed to Last a Lifetime
One-third of our day is spent in bed and that makes it important to buy a bed that is both comfortable and constructed. Select the best quality bed which is affordable as well. After all, you are going to use it for a minimum period of 10 years. And it should be noted that buying the most expensive bed is no guarantee to own the best bed. If you are unable to invest in a great bed right away, go for an air bed instead. You can move it to your guest room later on. When you are buying a bed, think about the right size, firmness and surface.
Chairs for Dining
Dining chairs should be such as to add beauty and colour to your dining area. The chairs should be comfortable enough to sit for a long time with close people. One can go for wooden chairs that are inexpensive, but upholstered chairs are preferable. For a luxurious look, arm chairs are a good choice and can easily be moved into a living area for extra seating.
A Comfortable Sofa
Sofas are available in different shapes, styles, fabrics and costs. Go for the best one that you find affordable. See to it that the sofa is made up of solid hardwood with 8 way hand-tied springs and durable fabric. Loose-backed cushions have a casual look while tight-backed sofas need less maintenance. You will have to select the arm shape, length, skirt or no shirt, plain or patterned fabric, number of cushions, down or synthetic cushions.
A Chest of Drawers
According to an interior decorator, a chest of drawers is useful in a bedroom for clothes, a bathroom for supplies and linens, a living room for games, CDs, books, or in a hallway or entry for gloves, scarves, and hats. Go for a piece that is both classic and versatile.
A Versatile Armoire
There is hardly any furniture that is more versatile than an armoire that comes to use for organizing clothes, store things, linens or hide a television. In addition to adding beauty, it can provide storage space in most houses.
Side Tables and Nesting Tables
There are some interesting side tables at estate sales that are ideal for collections. Or else one can invest in new pieces. They are easy to be moved around the room for such uses like eating or keeping magazines and books. A small table is a useful item to be kept beside a bed. Nesting tables are ideal for saving space as it can be spread out when required. Choose wood, glass or metal top for interest.
Lighting and Lamps
Often, small older homes have harsh overhead lighting. Install dimmers on every wall switches. Check to see that floor lamps or table lamps are near seating arrangements. A pair of lamps could be placed on a pair of tables. Installing wall-mounted lamps work wonder beside beds. Choose lamp shade of metal to focus the light or sheer fabric for having more light. You might need professional installation for overhead track lighting.
A Guest Bed
For guests, one can go for several solutions other than letting them sleep on cushions on the floor. One can have a sofa bed in the living room or family room that does the dual job of comfortable seating and reasonably comfortable sleeping. Keep in mind that the mattress is of good quality. If you are looking for an extra sleeping space, you can go for a good quality air bed. They can be inflated when needed and deflated quickly if required.
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The Must-Have Furnishings For First-Time Home Buyers