Uncover bargains
“Blowout sale!”
If you’re like most of us, you lace up your sneakers when you hear those magic words, especially for big-ticket items like furniture. But these days so many stores and their online competitors are offering furniture at attractive prices that it’s hard to know which way to jump. It may be helpful to think of furniture shopping as a game of trade-offs: Some of the biggest bargains are found online. (The deepest discounts tend to lurk in the clearance sections of chain-store Web sites.) On the other hand, your local retailer may offer discounted floor samples and personalized service. Some will even give you free decorating advice in your home. So where are the best places to look? Real Simple consulted nine industry experts to find the most promising sources for bargain furniture. Here’s a rundown of their recommended sources.
Dining tables
The most common buyers’ mistake is misjudging the size of the table. Be sure the table is small enough to allow at least 30 inches between it and the surrounding walls and furniture.
Where to go
•Pier 1 Imports has inexpensive choices with exotic accents (www.pier1.com).
• Modernica has reproductions of mid-century classics starting at about $700 (www.modernica.net).
• Drexel Heritage is a value-conscious source for pieces with traditional styling (www.drexelheritage.com).
Insider tip: Watch out for tables that are unfinished underneath and those stained to look like something they’re not. What appears to be cherry wood may actually be pine.
Side chairs
Many of today’s new side chairs, available from the sources below, are attractive and versatile enough to be used at a desk or a dining table. (And that flexibility won’t cost you a dime.)
Where to go
• Ikea sells sturdy solid-wood chairs starting at about $20 (www.ikea.com). Many are unfinished, so you can paint them any color you like.
• West Elm, the chain known for minimalist pieces in distinctive colors, has chairs at $99 and up (www.westelm.com).
• Design Within Reach offers modernist chairs that are reasonably priced without looking like compromises (www.dwr.com).
Insider tip: Make sure your pick is sturdy. If the back has any wiggle to it, take a pass.