Bedroom Furniture in Italy

Italy is a leader in fashion and design, second only to France and the Parisian shopping district that is the fashion capital of the world. When trends are set and forwarded to New York, they come from one of these two locations. That includes not only clothing but home and furniture designs as well. In order to be hip and in the know, it’s important for designers in the United States to make pilgrimages abroad and see what the latest and greatest offerings are across the Atlantic. In terms of bedroom furniture, Italy has turned to the simplistic use of platform beds, which are modern and basic, with sleek lines and sharp angles.

In today’s society, people change their minds frequently and want instant gratification. That’s true the world over, even in places like Italy where the lifestyle is a little slower paced and less rushed. That means that, if someone wants their furniture to last through the changes in trends and personal style, it is essential for the pieces to be as generic as possible. Contemporary beds designed out of Italy are being manufactured this way specifically for such a purpose. Of course, because the furniture is meant to last through numerous redecorations and for many years ahead, the beds produced here are of the highest quality. At the same time, Italians are frugal and won’t spend more than necessary, looking for the best value for their buck.

Of course, in Italy just as in many European nations, the apartments or “flats” as they are called are much smaller than what people are used to in the United States, so furniture has to accommodate the space available. This leads to combination pieces like bookcase headboards, which offer a place to store books and other important items that need to be accessible while not taking up extra space. It will also grace the head of the bed with style that reflects personal taste and a sense of self through the items that are chosen for display.

The trundle day bed is especially popular when it comes to roommates sharing one of these small flats, most of which are no bigger than the living rooms in a typical American home. This allows for seating on the sofa bed portion during the day, which is transformed into a bed at night, as well as a second bed that can be put away during the day to clear up more floor space.

Even in larger houses, rooms are not as spacious as those in North America, so king sized furniture is not the best option. Instead, Italians are more likely to purchase queen wood beds, choosing wood because of its durability and stylistic appeal. And, in order to provide a very basic canvas upon which to build a new design or theme, many Italians will take advantage of the plainness of platform beds. This creates the opportunity to quickly wipe the slate clean and start anew without spending a fortune on new furniture with each whim.

Tips on Decorating Using Cottage Style Furniture

ottage style furniture is no longer just limited to town and country houses anymore. This style has found its way in the houses of chic and hip city folks. Often referred to as the "shabby chic" this type of furnishings are fast becoming the new trend simply because of its vintage and nostalgic appeal. Many people who like the shabby chic look say that this type of home furnishings give their homes a little Parisian feel. Everything from drawers, cabinets, side tables, to chairs, book cases and beds that look like they came from a flea market somewhere in Europe. Another great thing about cottage style furniture is the romantic feel it lends to a place. They are also very classic pieces and would never go out of style.

Most of these "shabby chic" furnishings are either painted a nice white color or are distressed giving off that worn, aged feel. The style is also a little carefree, with a very light almost effervescent appeal to it which is perfect for people who are very easy going and laid back. So what makes something "shabby chic"? More often than not, it’s the use of light colors and comfortable as opposed to expensive fabrics that makes it "shabby chic". Every piece of furnishing is easy on the eye and ignites a feeling of nostalgia, whether it is real vintage or just made to look like one.

Another appeal of having cottage style furniture is the fact that it doesn’t cost as much as more modern looking furnishings do. You can simply go to a local flea market or used furniture store and you can find some really good pieces. You can also refurbish your old furnishings to make them look "shabby chic". For example, you can take an old side table that you haven’t used in a while and paint it in a nice white color afterwards, you can make it look distressed which is the look of the most shabby chic furnishings by using sandpaper on parts of it. As simple as that, you can make your own cottage style furniture without having to spend a penny. But if you aren’t handy with such things, there are many websites that specialize in this type of furniture and they offer good quality stuff. Most of the time, you will find new custom furnishings that were made to look vintage and then there are those which offer items that come from flea markets and were refurbished by the seller themselves. These items can sell at really good prices but the more antique ones might fetch a higher price tag.

So you want to decorate your house using cottage style furniture? Well here are some easy to do tips which you can incorporate to your renovation:

1. When you think of this type of furniture you immediately think of timeworn, old pieces that have that heirloom appeal. So why don’t you try looking at your current furnishings and see which one could be taken and worked on to get that sort of style. All you need are some paint and sanding tools.

2. Texture. Add small things like shells to your current fixtures and this would instantly add that cottage style appeal.

Aluminum Outdoor Furniture

Aluminum outdoor furniture provides families with an opportunity to enjoy the outdoors in a comfortable seating arrangement while taking advantage of their own backyards. There are numerous benefits to owning aluminum patio furniture, including features such as durability, portability, and the beautiful designs that can be created through a special sand mold.

Aluminum furniture is made by first carving a wooden model and using it to create a metal mold by pressing the wooden model into casting sand and making an impression. Once the impression is made the melted aluminum is poured into the sand mold and is given time to harden and cool. The sand is then taken away so that the design is left in cast aluminum.

The sand mold allows very intricate details to be formed that cannot be done with other types of material. Aluminum patio furniture can be found in many different designs to match an individual’s personal taste. You will find a lot of styles that have different cultural influences that can bring places like Mexico, Italy, or Spain to your backyard. With the option of buying tables and chairs separately you’re able to make your own set based on your special selections.

A huge benefit of choosing aluminum patio furniture is the fact that it is rust-proof with minimal care requirements. When exposed to air, aluminum has a thin layer of oxidation that forms which prevents sun, rain, snow, and sleet from doing any harm. Other finishes can be applied that will give the aluminum its desired appearance. Anodizing, painting, and powder coating are a few examples of the types of finishes that can be used on aluminum. Anodizing is a popular choice as it won’t peel like other finishing options.

Weatherproofed outdoor patio furniture is the best way to make sure it will last many years without losing its appeal. While it is recommended to move the furniture inside or cover it up when it’s not being used, that may not be an option for some. Luckily, aluminum doesn’t need to be kept out of the rain or snow to keep from corroding. While it isn’t necessary, cleaning the furniture by spraying water can easily remove any unwanted dirt. Abrasive cleaners should never be used as they can remove the finish or scratch the aluminum. Nothing more than mild soap and water should be used on outdoor aluminum.

Cast aluminum patio furniture has a lightweight frame that makes it easy to move each piece easily around your garden or patio to accommodate seating arrangements. Unlike other materials, such as plastic, the lightweight feature is not overshadowed by being easily broken or damaged. It’s very durable and can last many years so you get the most out of your money.

You will find cast aluminum chairs, swivel chairs, rocking chairs, benches, and tables in various designs that are made to withstand harsh weather. You can mix and match chairs and tables or find a complete set that offers the style you want. Browse through the collection of metal patio furniture, garden furniture, and deck furniture to find the perfect match for you.

Most manufacturers are dedicated to produce the highest quality cast aluminum outdoor furniture. They combine stylish designs with beautiful craftsmanship. Most outdoor furniture products are designed so that you can mix and match between chairs, swivel chairs, rocking chairs, benches and tables.

Furniture Designer

Not only was Alvar Aalto a well-known designer of furniture but he was also an architect and accomplished working with glassware and textiles. Among Scandinavian artisans he is often referred to as the "Father of Modernism." His furniture, textiles, and glassware creations, much like his architecture, offer a modern appeal that was well ahead of his time and remains attractive and appealing today.

In 1924 Alvar Aalto married Aino (Marsio) Aalto who began working for him that same year. While her role on his work is not widely known or understood it is believed that she concentrated more on interior designs and architecture rather than exterior architectural design. She is believed to have collaborated with Alvar Aalto on the design of the Savoy Vase in addition to being rather famous in her own right for her glass designs.

Alvar Aalto's Glasswork

The glasswork of Alvar Aalto was famous for its design elements, which allowed the users to determine what it was. Some might see a vase while others might see a bowl. Of course it is the Aalto vase that has become legendary and received worldwide acclaim, no matter what function it is ultimately used for.

Perhaps the most famous glasswork crafted by Alvar Aalto is the Savoy vase. The shape of this vase has become synonymous with Finnish design and the ultimate in sophistication. Around the world these vases are recognized and associated with Alvar Aalto and his glasswork. He has also created bowls, trays, and candleholders in styles that closely resemble the Savoy Vase.

There has been and remains to this day a great deal of speculation as to Alvar Aalto's inspiration behind the Savoy Vase. Common speculation leans toward an abstract representation of Finland's landscape while others believe it is based on a sketch entitled "The Eskimo Woman's Leather Breeches." Regardless of its origins, the Savoy Vase has made a lasting impression on the world at large and has become an icon of Finnish design.

Alvar Aalto Furniture

Moving from fire and glass to the world of wood, Alvar Aalto sought to learn all about wood and the fabric of the wood. As such, wood plays an integral role in the furniture that he created. Together with his wife, he formed Artek to create furniture according to his designs. Even today Artek remains loyal to the designs and values that Aalto prized so highly when he created the company in 1935.

The mainstay of furniture creations by Alvar Aalto were chairs, stools, and barstools. Simplicity was the rule rather than the exception with Alvar Aalto furniture designs, which greatly contrasted to the glasswork that he was so famous for. Where his architecture and glasswork offered twists and turns his furniture offered sleek lines and soft curves that are often associated with modern pieces.

While it is next to impossible to put your hands on Alvar Aalto original furniture pieces it is quite simple to order pieces created by Artek in the image of his design style. The furniture that is created today by Artek is loyal to the vision created by Aalto and offers some beautiful wood pieces that would be an excellent addition to almost any home whether the general style of decorating is modern or conventional.

The wood used in furniture designed by Alvar Aalto provides a little bit of a softer approach to modern design than the pieces by other modern designers. Many modern designers place a heavy emphasis on metals and other manufactured materials instead of wood for their furniture creations. The quality of Aalto's furniture is exceptional and the price, when you consider the fact that much of his furniture is hand crafted is surprisingly low for the quality and craftsmanship you receive.

Furniture that Aalto is most widely recognized for creating include: the Paimio Chair, the 3 Leg Stool 60, and the 3 Leg Stool X600. Of course these aren't the only items he created during his legendary career in the world of furniture design. There were other pieces including lighting features and other seating options that exemplified refined taste, elegance, style, and functionality.

Alvar Aalto Architecture

Not only was the design great a talented creator of inspiring furniture but also of amazing architecture. His impact on modern architecture around the world was profound. Not only did he change the way people viewed building and design but also managed to create architecture that captured the imagination.

More importantly he was able to help define the style that Finland, at the time a newly independent country, would be able to call its own. His style was closely matched by his ego, which it would seem today was well deserved. He was an architect and designer that had an amazing eye for detail and an almost limitless capacity to identify the trends that were to come.

Some of his most significant architectural achievements were the Bell Tower of Kauhajarvi Church, the Municipal Library in Viipuri, Finland, the Paimio Sanatorium in Paiimio, Finland, The Alto-Theater Opera House in Essen, Germany, the Helsinki University of Technology in Espoo, Finland, the Experimental House in Muuratsalo, Finland, and the Essen Opera House in Essen Germany. This is only a small sampling of the major accomplishments of his career in architecture.

Whether your interests in Alvar Aalto lie in his furniture creations, his architecture, or his glasswork, there is plenty to appreciate in his art forms. One thing that can be said about his career and life as an architect and designer: it was brilliant. Alvar Aalto represented his home of Finland quite well not only by local standards but on a worldwide stage as Finland was just beginning to be viewed as a sovereign nation.

His work continues to be the standard by which Finland is recognized. Even today you can find pieces of his furniture in museums around the world and imitations of his furniture in furniture stores around the world. His furniture and his architectural presence are accomplishments that have lived lifetimes far beyond the man who created them and are likely to be seen and enjoyed for several lifetimes to come.

Buying Furniture at Discounts

New furniture is expensive. If you have ever went shopping looking for a new piece for your living room you were probably surprised at the prices. But you don't have to spend your life savings for good quality furniture. With a little shopping around at alternative sources you can find good furniture within your budget.

Outlet Shops

Furniture outlet stores sell furniture at prices well below standard retail because the furniture either has been slightly damaged, returned by a customer, or simply did not meet the factory specifications. One thing to keep in mind is that this furniture often cannot be returned and does not have a warranty. Therefore it is important to look over the furniture carefully before you buy it.

Furniture Auctions

Estate auctions are another source for finding discount furniture. In fact you can find high quality pieces that would cost thousands of dollars retail for only hundreds. It can take some time to find what you are looking for so be prepared to his attend multiple auctions waiting for just the right piece.

Did you know that you can also find good deals on furniture through online auctions? The only downside to buying through online auctions is that you are making a purchase based on a description and a photograph. Therefore it is important to read the description carefully and ask any questions you have of the seller.

Damaged Furniture

Nearly every furniture store has a section where they sell furniture that has been damaged at discounted prices. This furniture has either been damaged while sitting in the showroom or it has been returned by customer. Nevertheless you'll find some good deals. It's important to note that all of these items are usually negotiable. Therefore don't pay more than you're comfortable with.

Naked Furniture

Naked furniture refers to furniture that doesn't have a finish on it. All it needs is a little paint or varnish and it will be perfect. The best thing is you get to choose the design and then add the finish later. This way you can find the perfect match for your home.

It doesn't have to cost an arm and a leg to find great furniture to complete that new room. Shop around and do some research and you'll find good furniture at cheap prices.

Office Furniture Buyer's Guide

What’s the first thought in your mind when you consider buying furniture ware for your office?

- Where from would I get it, local store? Or trip online?
- How much relatively cheaper would this be than that?
- Should I own them or get them on lease?
- Will it suit my office environment & the working conditions?

Interestingly, you might have popped-up all of these, one just besides the other. Your answer! Let’s answer each of them right away.

Where Would I Get It?

Depending on your proximity and access to the local/regional furniture stores & the range they serve, you ought to be clear whether offline shopping really worked for you. Alternatively, the www or the dot.com space might just land you at the doorstep of your imagination.

How Much Cheaper Would This Be Than That?

Subject to whether you had a home-office or a corporate zone, shelf your coins accordingly. You needn’t break a nut just to compute the cheapest quote you got for your home-office. Conversely, you could browse through related sites on the web and get your eyes fixed on. You get a clear comparison & thereby you can decide strategically.

Should I Own Them Or Lease Them?

If it’s for a newly sprung office, the bottom line is -‘obtain them on lease’. Further ahead, the same could be purchased outright once your business expands. If you are a developed firm, direct purchasing could keep your asset value intact.

Will It Suit My Office Environs And The Working Conditions?

As, if the extent of operations and area of functioning are pre-monitored, you could finally decide on the ergonomics and their impact upon the employees, their work habits, work culture prevailing, extremity of the work schedules and their timely completion.

Now that you are signed on, go get it.

Adirondack Furniture

The Best Look For Any Outdoor Space

Adirondack furniture should be a staple furnishing for any home when looking for an extremely comfortable and stylish seating arrangement for your patio or garden. It is one of the most comfortable chairs that can be found on the market today. Its inclined seat and big arms not only enhance the chair's style but provide maximum comfort.

Within the standard Adirondack chairs category, is the classic Adirondack plastic chair. These chairs are made up from reprocessed milk jugs or resin. Not only are they helpful for the environment, but Adirondack plastic chairs are beautiful looking. They weigh about 40 lb at minimum and are very strong and durable. Because of their beautiful appearance, it may be difficult for people to tell the difference between these chairs and the traditional wood Adirondack chair.

Painted Adirondack chairs are yet another category of Adirondack furniture. Initially, Adirondack recliners were available only in brown and green colors. Today you have a huge variety of beautiful colors in painted Adirondack chairs to choose from. You have such a wide choice of colors to choose from that many times you are able to have some pieces of furniture in one color tone and other pieces in different hues of that same color. You definitely have the ability to choose the Adirondack furniture that matches your style or taste.

Not all Adirondack chairs can be painted. Southern Yellow Pine, Alder, and Cypress are generally the most common woods used for painted Adirondack chairs. Teak Adirondack chairs, unlike the woods mentioned prior, are generally not recommended to paint. This is primarily due to the fact that the natural oils in the wood do not allow for proper adhering of the paint to the chair.

Another thing that you should keep in mind while buying Adirondack furniture is that most of the Adirondack furniture can be kept outside even during the winter season. It does not get destroyed by harsh weather. You may come across some cheaper versions of these items in your search for the perfect Adirondack furniture. You need to beware as they may be Adirondack but definitely are not ‘all weather’. These chairs may be sufficient for your needs, but you should make sure to remove them from the porch during the bad weather to keep them from being damaged.

Now after you have chosen the type of chair, you can consider Adirondack chair cushions to bring that magnificent color to your prized possession. It does not matter which Adirondack chair you are opting for, one thing remains sure that you will purchase only the best one that will be as per your style and requirements.

Art Of Adirondack All Weather Furniture

Its no mystery why Adirondack all weather furniture is so exceedingly popular. Adirondack all weather furniture is many steps away from the monotonous, everyday outdoor furniture of yesteryear and a leap towards artistic vision, comfort, quality and cutting-edge design. For those who are anything but your run-of-the-mill outdoor furniture shoppers, Adirondack all weather furniture is a dream come true.

There is a wide selection of Adirondack all weather furniture available in today’s exterior furniture market. Whether you prefer the rich tones of wood or the look and feel of wood but the strength of resin, there is a Adirondack all weather furniture choice to meet your every need. It is just a matter of finding the perfect piece that calls out to you.

Some of the most beautiful Adirondack all weather furniture is that made from the highly-desirable and beautiful wood of the teak tree. Teak wood is prominent in the craftsmanship of luxury outdoor furniture and contemporary designs are no exception. It is not uncommon for the most beautiful Adirondack all weather furniture pieces to be crafted from teak.

Adirondack all weather furniture crafted from quality materials and designed by talented artists does not come cheap. It is not unusual for a contemporary furniture enthusiast to pay thousands of dollars for an exquisitely-designed contemporary teak chair. Those who are familiar with Adirondack all weather furniture know that the best pieces cannot be purchased for a mere pittance.

If you are on a limited budget, you should look for Adirondack all weather furniture being offered at a discount. It is not uncommon to find good deals for this type of furniture online. And if you’re lucky, you can find stores offering free shipping on Adirondack all weather furniture pieces. Shopping online for your outdoor furniture can help you stretch your dollar further allowing you to get more furniture for your money.

Regardless of how much you spend, the investment in Adirondack all weather furniture is well worth it. Remember, when you buy Adirondack all weather furniture, you are not just purchasing a chair, table or lounge – you are purchasing a piece of outdoor art that makes a statement about who you are.

Restaurant Furniture In Your Home

There’s a certain degree of nostalgia associated with booths from old diners and tables from old soda shops. They just give the aura of ‘good old days.’ If you dare to be different, you can bring those good old days back and incorporate them into your home décor by using restaurant furniture in your home.

Think how much fun it would be to have breakfast at a diner every morning. It can happen if you put a booth in your breakfast nook or dining area. Every lunch or dinner would be like a blue plate special! Or, treat your kids and their friends to banana splits and milk shakes at tables reminiscent of an old soda shop.

So you’re willing – but how do you go about finding such treasures? You could pay someone to custom design them for you. But where’s the fun in that? You could use an on line search in your quest by using key words like “used restaurant furniture” or “restaurant furniture.” Both key words will turn up a number of results.

But the fun way to find used restaurant furniture starts with scouring the classifieds of your local newspapers. Some actually carry a category called “Restaurant Equipment” or “Used Restaurant Equipment.” If not, search general merchandise and furniture for sale columns. Then, start looking for auctions. Your area newspapers will probably have a particular day of the week on which they run auction ads. Ask to find out when your paper runs its most of its auction ads. Look for restaurants going out of business, then read the list of items to be auctioned in the ad. If you see a piece of furniture that sounds promising, go check it out. If it is what you are looking for – or can easily become the perfect piece of furniture with minor modifications – start bidding. The auction process is fun and don’t be surprised if you get caught up in it. It’s always good to go into an auction with a budget of how much you will allow yourself to spend. Check out the items closely first before placing a big. Otherwise, you might pay too much for a furniture item that looked good from a distance but upon closer inspection you find cracks and other damage.

If you decide to go with a restaurant look with your furniture, you have many decorating options available to you. You could concentrate on a theme room with décor focusing on the theme, like breakfast, Coca-Cola or other brand names. Decorations ideas to accentuate your restaurant furniture might include old magazine ads for the theme product, old menus from restaurants, or labels from your favorite cans and boxes of food. You might even create a wall border using labels from canned foods!

Whether you incorporate one piece of restaurant furniture into your home or create your entire kitchen and dining area around a room full of it, you and your guests will always enjoy the novelty. After all, who doesn’t like going out to eat?

Buying Furniture for the Elderly with Special Needs

If you are challenged with buying furniture for an elderly person, there are a few things you should keep in mind as you start your search.

First, how is that person’s health and physical condition? Can he or she easily rise from and sit down into a chair? If not, furniture with special options are available. The seats of chairs and recliners rise to a higher level with the push of a button. The elderly person can simply back against it, then lower himself down to a seated position by pushing another button. Furniture technology is great!

Another thing to consider when picking out furniture for an elderly person is the fabric or upholstery on the item. If the elderly person tends to slide out of seating easily, a couch with a slick leather upholstery might not be as good a choice as one with a textured fabric. The texture of the fabric can help prevent slipping out of the seating.

Make sure the furniture you pick out for an elderly person is easy to clean. If they have other health issues that might mean occasional soiling of the furniture, they will need to be able to clean it quickly and thoroughly.

Most important when buying furniture for an elderly person is to remember that even though his or her eyesight might be a little less than it once was, the furniture should still be appealing to his or her taste. If your grandfather hates floral fabric, don’t buy him a room full of furniture with huge magnolia blossoms on it just because you happen to like it. If you are incorporating this furniture into your living quarters, and you and the elderly person who will be sharing your space disagree on furniture tastes, do your best to get the new furniture in a complementary shade or fabric. It doesn’t have to be an exact match. Use a solid blue lift chair to coordinate with your blue, burgundy and green floral sofa and loveseat. Make every effort to respect his or her taste while accommodating any special needs.

If you are buying furniture for an elderly or special needs person, ask questions of your furniture rep. Tell them about your special needs and concerns. Furniture sales reps are trained to help you fill your needs. If your local furniture store doesn’t carry what you need, chances are the salesperson can refer you to a website or medical supply store that does. If ordering furniture from a website, be sure you know all the shipping and handling costs up front. Also, find out warranty information. Don’t overlook medical supply stores in your furniture quest. In addition to medical necessities such as oxygen tanks, portable toilets and wheelchairs, many carry furniture items like lift chairs and recliners that can greatly improve comfort and quality of life.

If at all possible, take the elderly person you are buying furniture for on your shopping trip. Ask for input. This will insure your furniture purchase is one you’ll be happy with for a long time.

Keeping Dogs off Furniture

In general, you need to decide what kind of house you want to live in and what doggy rules are the most important ones. For example, if your dog seems temperamental around young children, you will want to focus on this first before worrying about the furniture. It’s often a good idea to have “no go” zones for your dog too. This not only gives you a place where you can put your valuable or vulnerable stuff, but also reminds the dog that this is your territory, first and foremost.

You also have to realize that the second you walk out that door, they may go over to your leather couch, lie on it all day, and hop off just as you get home. Smart ones will even vacuum the dog hair off. You’ll never know they were there. Unless these areas are restricted, your dog will naturally want to recline in luxury. You would too, which is why you bought the leather couch. If it’s not convenient to block access to an entire room, it might be possible to obstruct the item of furniture itself. You might put a few folding chairs on top of it when you’re gone, anything that makes the item undesirable (tacks are not an option).

Of course, there are simple ways to train your dog to jump up on furniture, jump off of furniture, or avoid your furniture altogether. They will obviously want to hop up on the soft, warm spot, so if they’re allowed to, make them Wait, Sit, and then “Up” while patting the cushion will do the trick of letting them know they need to wait for an invitation. “Off” with a quick snap of the fingers or a clap will do the opposite, but you may need to physically encourage this response at first. If you do, taking them by the collar and pulling is the common way but it’s not the best, and they can easily resist.

Instead, try sliding your hand behind them, at their lower back or rear end, so in effect you create a wedge that lifts them slightly off their seat and gradually pushes them toward the floor. All the while, repeat the “Off” or “Down” command. This not only sends the message but makes their soft and comfortable seat uncomfortable, and they’ll want to bail out.

The same will do the trick for a dog who is not allowed on furniture. Remember not to yell or severely push or pull your dog for sitting in a comfortable place. They will be much more willing to respect your wishes if you don’t. As always, the key is in repetition. It won’t take too long before they realize it’s not worth the effort.

Finally, make sure they have a decent option (which a hardwood floor in winter is not). No shame having a day bed for your dog out in the lounge. Even though they no longer have to sleep all day to save up enough energy for the big hunt, as their ancestors did, most are still quite happy to keep doing just that.

Rta Furniture Is Europe’s

Ready to assemble furniture, known as RTA furniture to retailers, has been popular in Europe for years but is only now becoming popular in the United States. The popularity of RTA is now rising quickly, however, because it offers a practical, money-saving way to invest in high quality home furnishings.

Purchasing high quality bedroom or dining room sets can set you back thousands of dollars when you shop at a high end furniture store. When you add in the difficulty in finding what you really want (often visiting several stores before deciding), the lengthy time involved before receiving an order and the high cost of shipping, furniture shopping can turn into a nightmare. Europeans have known the solution for years – RTA furniture can be shipped much more quickly because it isn’t pre-assembled and the cost is much less because there are no assembly fees and the shipping is much more reasonable.

Most RTA furniture is sold online, giving you a world of options and styles to choose from. Rather than spend weeks trying to visit different traditional furniture showrooms and trying to fit them into your schedule, you simply spend an evening online. Greater variety is available because you can look for particular woods, grains and styles and most furniture sets are available in several finishes. Since everything is shipped from large warehouses, there’s no waiting for a “special order” that could take weeks or even months.

RTA Provides Quality at Lower Cost

Is RTA furniture of the same quality as pre-assembled furniture? It depends on the company you order from, but in most cases the only difference lies in the fact that you will be assembling the furniture yourself rather than relying on the factory to do it for you. This can save you hundreds of dollars on a dining room set, which takes only a few hours to assemble. In most cases, the only tools you may need are included with the furniture.

RTA furniture is generally made of the same high grade wood and other materials as its pre-assembled counterparts. When assembled, the joints meet as cleanly and the hardware is just as strong and attractive. In fact, the trend toward RTA home furnishings has contributed to even more attention to detail.

When you order RTA furniture, it is shipped “knocked down,” or packed flat with all of the pieces and hardware included in a flat shipping box. This greatly reduces the cost of shipping and allows you to save even more money. If you live in an apartment or move frequently, you can simply disassemble your furniture and repack it for easy transport to your next home.

The styles available in RTA furniture are more contemporary and up-to-date than what you may find in some traditional showrooms as well. Because manufacturers of RTA furnishings know that most purchasers tend to be younger, they respond by designing and making furniture that fits the latest home decorating trends, steering clear of the furniture you would see in your grandparent’s formal rooms. Which leads us to one more advantage of RTA furniture – since you’ve spent less, you can change your décor more often – and you ca be sure there will be lots of gorgeous new RTA styles waiting for you!

About Furniture Rental

There are many businesses out there which rent furniture by the month. You need a couch? Rent one for only $40 per month. Need a lamp? You can get one for $12 a month. Now, let’s see, in one year you would have paid $480 to use the couch and you wouldn’t own it. The lamp would have cost you $144 and it’s the same situation ~ at the end of your lease, you still own nothing.

Most of us would think it foolish to rent furniture. But, that isn’t always the case. There are situations where renting may be the best option. Consider these scenarios:

• Your company transfers you to a new location but the rest of your family is staying in your present home until the school year ends and that’s 4 months away. You buy a house and live in it until your family arrives. Do you go out and buy new furniture or do you rent a few necessities in the meantime?

• Right after you get married, you move into a new home. You and your spouse haven’t decided how you want to decorate your home. Do you rush your decisions or do you rent furniture until you find the style that will please you both?

• You graduate from college and accept a position in an unfamiliar city. You find an apartment that has everything you want, except furniture. You can’t afford to go out and purchase the items you’ll need right away. What do you do?

If you find yourself in any of these situations, renting all or part of your furniture may be a viable option. The thing you have to keep in mind is that it’s never a long-term solution. From the figures in the first paragraph, you can see how expensive renting is over the long haul.

However, when you find yourself without furniture, short term rental may be your best option. If you don’t have the cash or credit to purchase what you need, or if you only plan to be without furniture for a little while, short-term rental may be the best solution.

Most furniture rental companies offer several options from which to choose. Most of them also offer packages in different price ranges, depending on the style and quality of the furniture you require.

• The bedroom package usually includes a double or queen-size bed, night stand and lamp, and 1 chest.

• A living room package provides a couch, end table and lamp, cocktail table, and a chair.

• A dining room package includes a table and 4 chairs.

• A complete home package includes all of the above.

• You can also rent any accessories you may need, including cookware and china, rugs, additional lamps, TV’s, stereos, etc.

As long as you rent only what you need and do so for as short a time as possible, furniture rental may be the solution you need. But, don’t forget to calculate the cost of your rent or mortgage along with the cost of your furniture rental before you decide which package to choose.

If money is an issue, one question you need to ask yourself is this: do you really need the most expensive package or can you get by with the more generic and economical choice for 2 or 3 or 4 months? Unless you plan to do a lot of business entertaining, the answer is obvious.

In short, furniture rental can be an economically sound solution to your problem, if you use your common sense and don’t get in over your head. It beats sleeping on the floor any day!

Furniture Buying Tips

Furniture Buying Guide

Furniture is a big investment. When buying furniture, keep the following in mind:

Size--make sure it will fit in your home. Measure your room and then do a floor plan. Use a 1/2 inch graph paper (1 square equals one foot). Be conscious of traffic movement in the room. Lay out your furniture so that you don't have to walk around it. Take a measurement tape with you while shopping.

Buy what you need. Don't be impulsive. Furniture is bulky, expensive, and very hard to get rid off if you have buyer's remorse.

Develop a buying plan. Set priorities and goals. If you have a beer budget and champagne taste, invest in one quality piece at a time.

Learn as much as possible about the piece you buying--that means reading the labels, warranty, study the manufacturer and their reputation.

Keep records of what you bought in case problems develop.

Buying Casegoods

Casegoods refers to wood products such as dining table, chairs, beds etc. Here are a few common terminology:

Solid--solid means that all exposed surfaces are made of solid wood without veneer.

Genuine--when used with a named wood, for example, mahogany, means that all exposed surface are made of mahogany.

Combination-more than one type of wood is used in exposed parts of the furniture.

All-wood construction means all exposed parts are made of wood.

Veneer refers to a material consisting of thin wood layers bonded to each other with an adhesive. Veneer is not necessarily a bad thing. Many times wood with the most beautiful grain pattern is selected for the outermost layer, or veneer, of a wood piece.

Hardwood refers to wood from trees that lose their leaves each year. Oak, pecan, walnut, birch, maple, cherry, mahogany are some of the common ones.

Softwoods are evergreens, such as pine, cedar, cyprus, spruce, fir and redwood.

Buying Upholstery Furniture

Upholstered furniture such as sofas and chairs are often the most-used furniture in your home. Buy them for comfort and durability. Here are a few tips:

Don't just sit on the sofa or chair. Bounce on it. The frame should be substantial enough so you can bounce on it. Wood frames are most common. The good ones are made of kiln-dried hardwood. The frame should have corner blocks that are cut to fit, screwed and glued to position.

The legs should be made of interlocking pieces and joined to the frame with the same construction as the rest of the joints. If they are simply screwed into the frame or screwed into the metal part of the frame, it's an indication of poor quality.

Check the padding on the arm and the top of the sofa. If you can feel the frame, this means that the pieces are of poor construction.

Look at the seams and welting. Is it neat and even? Do the patterns match? These are good indications of quality.

How the spring is reinforced is very important. The best way is 8-hand tie construction, as each cord is anchored securely to the frame in eight different directions, allowing the spring to be held in the proper position.

There is a wide range in price of upholstery furniture due to fabric grade. Fabrics are graded according to their quality and design. If it is for frequent use, choose a fabric that is serviceable, tightly woven and stain resistant. For a less-frequently-used chair, the piece can be upholstered in some thing more elegant and dressy such as silk.

Keep in mind that most manufacturers guarantee their frames but not the fabric. Proper care such as sun avoidance and regular cleaning will help lengthen the life of your furniture.

Find Cool Teen Furniture

Find Cool Teen Furniture your Teen will use and Like

You will find that when it comes to teen furniture there are a number of excellent items available that will not only adequately hold your teens stuff, but also can match the theme or décor of their room. There are many great teen furniture ideas waiting you online at great internet stores like www.yourkidsdirect.com and www.stacksandstacks.com.

There are some aspects you will need to keep in mind when selecting teen furniture and include:

* Budget: how much you want to spend

* Room size: measure your teen’s room before you purchase anything, as you will not want to cram the room too tightly with objects, making it difficult for your teen to move around.

* Room Theme: Are there any teen furniture items that you can find that go with the décor in your teens room. For instance, is their décor modern, trendy, futuristic or Victorian?

To give you an idea of how you can shop for teen furniture to keep with the theme of your kid’s room, as well as preserve space, the following is an example of the type of furniture you can use to go with a teen boy’s room that is based on space, or futuristic décor:

Beds - To create space and to go with a galaxy themed room, choosing a loft bed with a simple metal frame like the “Monster Twin Study Loft Bunk Bed” at Your Kids Direct really provides the room with a spaceship feel. Best of all, the modern teen boys will love it as there are no extra frills. Loft beds are like a bunk bed in the sense that they have a similar structure but there is only one bed which is on the top, and an empty, open space is left on the bottom where a desk can be placed, freeing up plenty of space in the room.

Storage Furniture – The best teen furniture used for storage is a bookcase. The reason is because bookcases take up little space and hold plenty of objects and books. However, another great storage idea is stackable bins on a moveable cart. In addition, if you visit Stacks and Stacks you’ll even find a steel storage locker which will go great with the futuristic theme.

Chest of Drawers and Nightstand – You will likely be able to find matching teen furniture, or furniture that comes in a set. To keep with the futuristic theme, the best color for furniture would be black or metal.

Desk – When choosing the ideal desk for your teen, the best choice is to always go with a computer desk. This will ensure that your child is provided with the right space and support they need to study comfortably. Try to keep the desk in the same theme and colors as the rest of the teen furniture.

Fun Furniture – Great furniture you can add to your teen’s room include bean bag chairs, pillow chairs, entertainment center for holding a TV and/ or stereo as well as movies and CDs.

Remember, regardless of the teen furniture items you select for your teen’s room, you will want to find furniture that is comfortable, can be easily accessed, and is something that you know they’ll use. With that in mind, know how much space and the budget you have to work with, and make sure you share furniture decisions with your teen based on this knowledge. Lastly, don’t forget to explore your online options and have fun!

Wood Furniture Care –

It can be a great investment to any home by installing wooden floors, whether you have new floor boards laid, have old ones renovated or whether you have laminate flooring. It helps to add warmth, character and personality to any room that it is in but depending upon what option you take, it can cost a lot of money. That is why looking after the wooden flooring in your home is extremely important. By ensuring that they are properly cared for, they will look as good as possible for as long as possible.

Accidents happen all of the time whether you drop some sauce or other food onto the floor, or if you spill some water on it and forget to mop it up. Things easily happen and without sorting it out, it can eventually turn into a problem for your wooden floors. The reason is dirt and grime may not seem like a problem, but if it is left it can cause marks, scuffs and scratches because it could get dragged around.

Applying Proper Wood Care Techniques to Your Wooden Floors

If things are spilled onto the floor then there is no problem usually, depending upon what it is. Most stains are easy enough to get out, whilst others may need a bit more work and because of this it will determine what type of product you will need to use. However something that you need to do is to find out what wood care products you can get to help to clean your floor. Not all products will be safe to use and without finding this out you could easily cause damage to the floor.

To determine what product you will need will depend entirely upon what type of finish is on the flooring. One type of wood finish would be either varnish or shellac, which is mainly used in older floors. If you have a varnish or shellac finish then you just need a simple dust mop as well as regularly sweeping and vacuuming up. If you do have any spills you should try and mop them up as soon as possible. By applying this simple form of cleaning then you are protecting the floor as much as possible by giving it the proper care that it needs.

Something that you need to keep in mind on most wooden floors is not to use a soaking wet mop as this can easily cause serious damage to the wood. It can cause discoloration as well as maybe causing the wood to warp, so that is why it is not a good idea to use a wet mop.

Overall by taking the time to find out about what type of finish is on the wood and by taking extra care, you can ensure that the floors are kept in good condition. It is not hard to look after your flooring and you should find that it will look as good as new for years to come if you give it the proper care which it deserves.

Baby Nursery Furniture A Booming Market!

Baby nursery furniture and baby crib sets are a growing category, representing $1.1 billion at retail last year, and expected to grow to $1.4 billion by 2009. Today’s baby furniture varies quite a bit in style, price and selection, and at over a billion dollars, there is room for a wide range of manufacturers in the nursery furniture field.

There are many top manufacturers in the nursery furniture category. The baby furniture category includes nursery furniture for children from birth through 2 years, including painted baby furniture, nursery crib furniture, bassinets, a baby table for changing diapers, glider rockers, rocking chairs, dressers, chests, armoires and bookcases. Basically anything you would purchase at a baby store while furniture shopping.

Although most of the parents claimed that they mostly shopped at discount stores they admittedly would make more extravagant purchases at a specialty baby store if there was something they really wanted. A Gen X mom talked about children strollers. She paid $300 for a stroller because she liked the features. So if a parent is willing to spend $300 on a stroller which is typically a smaller ticket item in comparison to nursery furniture what are they willing to spend on a nursery crib, an item that’s use is far more than the use of a stroller.

Things like blankets, strollers, a nursery crib mattress, a toddler bed and accessories or items that would be bought for nursery gifts or baby gifts, or furniture for children over the age of 2 are not included in the category being discussed as leading infant bedroom furniture manufacturers. This is primarily nursery furniture for babies 2 and under in the strictest sense of the word.

According to Kids Today’s exclusive Buying Trends Survey, 2.2% of U.S. households bought a nursery crib in 2004, and 2.7% bought other baby furniture. The median price point for a nursery crib in 2004 was $150, with those consumers planning to buy a nursery crib in 2005 saying they planned to spend a median of $200. Even still, 18% of consumers who bought a nursery crib in 2004 paid $500 or more.

What this tells me is that although 18% of parents purchasing a nursery crib probably planned to purchase practically but when push came to shove they were willing to spend on average and extra $300 above and beyond what they initially planned to spend. Why is this? Is it because we are seduced by all the new-fangled cribs such as the newer style of the round crib and the BRAND-NEW Corner cribs (shaped to fit in a corner)? It is common knowledge that the median prices of these specialty cribs cost much more than the traditional rectangle cribs. As far as infant furniture goes round baby cribs are a fairly new concept. I do not even remember them being available when I had my first child. Since a separate room for a baby nursery is not always an option some parents feel that the round baby cribs and corner cribs which is a new concept is the way to go, they are both big space savers.

It could also be because parents are willing to purchase the top of the line 3-in-1 cribs in hopes that they will save money in the long run? Or quite possibly is it because parents will spend just about anything on their children, trying to provide everything they were never given?

Obviously a nursery crib is the most important purchase you will make for your child…along with the rest of the nursery furniture. Nursery Furniture Manufacturers know this and cater our need to give our child “everything”. That is why nursery furniture and nursery crib sets are such a booming market!

Wicker Furniture For Sunrooms

Wicker sunroom furniture can help to enhance the beauty and relaxation of your sunroom. There are many different pieces that you can choose from to create the feel that you want.

Sunrooms just seem to call for wicker sunroom furniture. This room has been the ideal setting for wicker furniture for many years, due to its durability and wide range of colors available. Wicker sunroom furniture helps to add to that feeling of openness and airiness that a sunroom has and it can make your room feel more tropical and beachy. You can imagine that you are in a tropical location when you are relaxing in your wicker sunroom furniture. The good news is that there are more furniture options than the ordinary wicker loveseat and chair set. From furniture to accessories, you will be amazed at what you can find to use in your sunroom.

Even during Biblical times, wicker was a material that was used for tools and other creations. Egypt was the home of the earliest artifact made of wicker and it was dated at approximately 1400 B.C. Wicker was first used to make tools that were used in daily tasks, such as building shelter and/or fishing. As trading became more widespread, more and more people began building things with it, including furniture and other accessories. It was popular to build with, because it was inexpensive, but able to hold up well to wear and tear. Wicker can describe many different materials now, including bamboo, reads, willow, rattan, and peelcane. These materials are woven into strong shapes and patterns to make furniture and other items.

When searching for wicker sunroom furniture, you will find that there are many different pieces that you can choose from. Sets are the most common wicker sunroom furniture that is sold and these sets include a sofa or loveseat, along with lone or more chairs and maybe even a table. There are other pieces that you can choose from, too, including loungers, rockers, wing chairs, swings, and ottomans. All of these pieces can help to make your sunroom more relaxing to be in. There are accessories that you can purchase, as well, that are made of wicker. These include baskets, wall hangings, pot stands, end tables, mats, and fans. All of these items will help to enhance your tropical or beachy feel.

Wicker Alternatives

Other material options will give you the same look, but will be stronger. These include wood framed pieces that are combined with the wicker to give you the same look and feel, but making it stronger for larger and heavier people. Some pieces that look like wicker may actually be a vinyl or plastic material that is made to look like wicker. These pieces are inexpensive and easy to take care of. PVC pipe is being used to create this furniture, too, due to its strength and price.

8 Important Tips Buying Furniture Online

The World Wide Web has changed the way people shop for furniture. Today furniture can be bought for the home or office from online stores, auction sites, as well as websites selling antiques and second hand furniture.

Furniture shopping online changes shopping and gives a wide range of choices as well as the best deals. Among the most popular online shops for furniture are: the Conran Store, Crate and Barrel, Design Within Reach, Highbrow Furniture, and Horchow. There are online websites that deal with antiques as well as designer furniture. Many retail furniture stores also have online sales channels.

1. Look through home shopping and design books and get a clear idea of the kind of furniture you want. Consider size, durability, design, as well as your personal choice and the interiors.

2. In case you are the hands on kind go to local malls and stores and view the models you are considering.

3. Visit more than three online stores that stock your models of furniture and check out the deals. Be sure to ask about return policy, shipping, transit damage insurance, and warranties.

4. Use online CAD tools to arrange the furniture you wish to purchase in the rooms and view the effect and color balance virtually. This will help you make a decision.

5. Look for online discount sales, discount coupons, special offers, and free shipping offers and so on before buying online. Very often you could get high end furniture at an affordable price.

6. Make sure the online furniture dealer is trustworthy and has been in business for considerable time. Avoid buying things like furniture from small fly by night operators.

7. When buying furniture online you need to ask whether what you see in the picture is what you are paying for. Many stores window dress the furniture and only ship the basics.

8. Be sure of what you are investing in and try and buy only reputed brands.

Buying furniture online is a convenience but only useful if you know how to protect your interests and not get fooled by advertisements and what seem like great offers. The World Wide Web is a great information highway with articles and tips written by architects, furniture designers, and interior decorators. There are websites that give tips on how to choose furniture and have a home that is stylish.

Your Room with Chesterfield Furniture

Add Class and Style to Your Room with Chesterfield Furniture

When attempting to bring class and style into your home, leather furniture is the way to go. While there are several different kinds of leather and companies to choose from, there is nothing quite like leather chesterfields. Chesterfield furniture has been around for quite some time and continues to bring wonderful furniture into people's homes worldwide. Adding Chesterfield furniture to your home gives you rich and world class feel to the living room. No longer do you have to settle for a mediocre sofa that disappears in the room. You can make a Chesterfield sofa the highlight of the room with the magnificent leather and beautiful colour.

While this furniture used to be out of the price range for many, it has gradually become more affordable for everyone. But the status quo remains the same as this is high class furniture that can brighten up the room and bring your office or living room to another level.

There is nothing better than being able to show off a fine piece of furniture to family and friends like Chesterfield furniture. Guests will have the luxury of sitting on pure, soft, and comfortable leather sofa. And unlike many sofas that require attention after a couple of years, you will have your Chesterfield sofa for years to come because of the high-class durability.

Placing this luxury furniture in the living room is ideal to show it off, but it can also make for a fine piece of furniture in the office. There is nothing that says class and wealth in an office better than furniture like this. It will imply prosperity to those who enter your office and give your office a true working atmosphere.

Although you may not be aware of it at the time, but image can mean everything in a home. Replacing ragged sofas with a Chesterfield sofa can do wonders for your home. It will liven the room up, give it character, and present wealth in a new manner. And because of the style, you can put virtually anything around the sofa and create a beautifully crafted room.

It is hard to believe that one sofa could have such an impact on a room, but that is exactly what you are getting with leather chesterfields. It is the finest furniture around and can be purchased at a reasonable price. And with the durability it is built with, you can enjoy the comfort of fine leather for years to come.