Investing in Quality Furnishings
Quality furnishings almost always cost more than their lesser-quality counterparts. “Knowing” this and “accepting” this are two different pieces to a larger puzzle when it comes to choosing the furnishing that truly fits your needs. When exploring quality furnishing offerings, clients may experience “sticker-shock” and ask themselves questions like “how much do I really want to invest in this?” Followed by, “do I really need this level of quality at this price point, or can we go with the lower price point choice?”
Each client, their needs, and comfort levels of investment are completely unique, so the answer for one situation is never the answer for all. Some furnishings are simply “background pieces” while others play a more prominent role as “foundation pieces,” intended to anchor the design and endure high use.
As you climb the “quality ladder” in furnishings, there is greater transparency in how the pieces are crafted, what materials are being used, and where they are sourced from. Furnishings that fall under this category generally offer customization options for fills and finishes; all of this to ensure that you’re getting exactly what you want. As you can imagine, these improvements in quality and customizations result in an increased initial investment required. That being said, instead of having to replace a cheaper, lesser quality piece over and over again (costing more in the long run), the “foundation piece’s” value shines in its ability to be used and enjoyed over time.
High-end furnishing companies stand by the products and are committed to customer satisfaction. This is achieved by working closely with their design partners from the time of ordering, to beyond the installation.
When a client decides to work with our firm, they are placing trust in our expertise, experience, and discernment when we propose furnishing options. As an industry professional, I feel a duty to my clients to identify and present high quality products at different price points for them to choose from. I specifically travel to “to-the-trade only” events, such as High Point Furniture Market (High Point, NC), to visit expansive showrooms, inspect the latest furniture offerings, and speak directly to sales representatives and even furniture company owners. My commitment to thoroughly investigating products affords me the ability offer products I stake my name and reputation on.
If you’re considering your furnishing options, ask yourself:
Is this a piece that will see “high traffic” or exist in a “high traffic area?”
Who will primarily be using this piece? Small children, teens, adults, etc.
How long do I expect to live with this design and/or make use of this piece?
How important is it for me to have the construction, fabric, fill, or finish that I want without sacrifice?
Would I like transparency about where the materials are sourced and how the pieces are manufactured?
In the home furnishings market, space exists for all types of products at various price points, and that matters! Having the ability to balance wants, needs, and investment points is crucial for clients needing to make decisions on how to furnish their home. In furnishing selection process, having a professional who aligns your design vision with tailored quality product offerings is the way to maximize not only your satisfaction, but also the return on your investment.
Best,
Kate
Are you interested in learning more about quality furnishing options and what the level of investment would look like for your specific project? Contact sales@katekellyinteriors.com to start the conversation.
