Consignment Furniture: Purchase Function over Look

As someone who has refinished furniture for years – updating wood furniture finishes, changing the metallic finish on the hardware, etc. -- I have learned that the functionality of a piece of furniture gives it its value – not necessarily how pretty it is.  A bookcase, for example, is often hard to purchase used since we need bookcases everywhere in our house and we will pass them down from generation to generation until they eventually make it to the garage.

Yes, what the furniture looks like is important when considering purchasing or refinishing a piece of furniture. And, of course, if the construction of the furniture is not worth investing in then walk away.  But, a black lacquer coffee table that fits so perfectly in the family room can be affordably refinished now a day to look like a contemporary hammered metal coffee table – so keeping an open mind to furniture’s potential is where you can come across great finds.    

Functionality is completely different and is an all-or-nothing proposition to me.  If the coffee table is 13” tall – that is a functionality and practicality concern if paired with a modern day chair or sofa height-- that would have you leaning over.  Practicality has also made some pieces of furniture obsolete like the television armoire that has no value in a world of flat panels hung on the wall.  

Like my mother’s very low, velvet, living room sofa – if it’s not practical to use then you will live around it and not live with it.  Consequently, I recommend that people select furniture that is attractive to the eye but, most importantly, focus on furniture that is will constructed and overall practical. 

Learn more great ideas for making the most of your home at www.ArtAndTex.com or shop our consignment studio anytime at www.BackroomAtWestClay.com