Reupholster or Buy New? Here Are 3 Questions to Ask...
One of my clients has a beautiful loveseat that came from her family. It's a Traditional camelback, with tailored arms and exposed wood legs, masterfully elegant and also masculine. She chose to have it reupholstered instead of buying something new.
How did she decide that? Learn the three questions I always ask to help my clients make this important decision.
Question #1: Do you absolutely love it?
If you saw it on a showroom floor right now, would you have to have it? Does the piece have sentimental value, perhaps from your family or a favorite second hand shop? Is it one-of-a-kind?
If so, then ask yourself if you're willing to invest in what needs to be done to repair it (fabric, suspension, cushions, labor). By the way, my client invested $900 in reupholstery services and we chose a super-soft neutral fabric that will go with her living room now, and with anything else down the road.
A peek under the fabric of a chair
Question #2: Is the frame in good condition?
If the joints are tight and the frame is kiln-dried hardwood, then chances are, you've got a quality piece of furniture. Check to see if there are any cracks in the wood frame itself; ask your upholsterer if they can fix those. Otherwise, the upholsterer can update the suspension and replace the fabric so you can keep on using and loving your furniture.
If the piece isn't in good enough shape, you may need to buy something new. Here's a big tip: keep an eye out for that kiln-dried hardwood frame I just mentioned. That means the wood won't warp or shrink and expand with changes in temperature and humidity. This is what you want in a piece of furniture that's an investment: longevity.
This sofa’s lookin’ spiffy now
Question #3: Was it ever really comfortable?
Be totally honest with yourself here. The cool Victorian sofa from college may still make your heart sing, but if your love is only skin-deep, it's worth hitting pause. If a sofa wasn't truly comfortable to begin with, reupholstering won't fix it.
Sometimes a piece of furniture just isn't the right size or shape for your body's size or shape. No harm, no foul, it will never become comfortable, and an upholsterer can't rebuild the frame into a custom piece. Much better to look for something new that fits your body properly, with enough back support and the right height.
To sum it up, base your decision on love, condition and comfort. If all three points are yeses for you, then reupholstering is the right way to go. You can extend the life of your furniture and make it more versatile with fresh fabric. And you'll save the Earth in the process by not adding to the landfill. It's a triple-win: for you, for your upholsterer, and for the environment. How great is that?!
If you're ready for an expert to give your well-loved piece some TLC, I've got your back. Contact me and I’ll see how I can help.
Cheers,
Nan
About Nan
I’m an interior designer who helps people turn their homes into their sanctuaries without the pain of renovating. I’ve been working as a professional designer since 1995 and one thing I love about interior design is how it can evoke a mood and create whatever feeling you want in your space. In that way, it’s kind of magical.
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