Why is Furniture
So Expensive?
Our Studio Manager Boris Clayton discusses the factors that affect furniture prices, and what you can expect to see in our industry.
Why is Furniture
So Expensive?
Our Studio Manager Boris Clayton discusses the prices you can expect to find while furniture shopping.
How to Find
The Best Deal
One of the most curious conundrums furniture shoppers run into is the wide price disparity that can exist between retailers. Two similar-looking sofas can have price tags that are miles apart, creating additional confusion for buyers already overwhelmed by a myriad of choices. As it turns out, there are solid reasons for price disparities, and understanding them can greatly smooth out the shopping process.
Retailers make decisions about which brands they will carry based on their own priorities, which typically involve a specific balance of quality and affordability. Production costs are directly related to both.
Machine Made
VS. Hand Made
One of the most curious conundrums furniture shoppers run into is the wide price disparity that can exist between retailers. Two similar-looking sofas can have price tags that are miles apart, creating additional confusion for buyers already overwhelmed by a myriad of choices. As it turns out, there are solid reasons for price disparities, and understanding them can greatly smooth out the shopping process.
Retailers make decisions about which brands they will carry based on their own priorities, which typically involve a specific balance of quality and affordability. Production costs are directly related to both.
What About
Materials?
Materials are another major factor in furniture production costs, particularly when it comes to wood. “Manufacturers looking to cut costs will often use soft woods like pine,” observes Boris. “Soft woods are less expensive. They’re more abundant, and the trees grow quickly, which makes them easier and cheaper to replace. Softer woods are also easier to work with, which saves on labor costs.
“Hardwoods have tighter grains and are less pliable. This makes them more challenging to work with, but also much more durable and longer-lasting.”
Retailers make decisions about which brands they will carry based on their own priorities, which typically involve a specific balance of quality and affordability. Production costs are directly related to both.
It’s all About
The Artisanship
Other, smaller craftsmanship elements affect cost as well. Specially-treated fabrics cost more than untreated fabrics, natural fabric pigments cost more than synthetic dyes, and natural latex costs more than petroleum-based foam. Even the quality of something as small as a spring gauge can influence cost.
Then, there are manufacturing techniques. “I can’t even tell you how complicated and labor-intensive the eight-way tie process is,” says Boris. “But you’ll have that sofa forever.”
Manufacturing isn’t the only cost issue. Because of the pandemic, there are fewer delivery drivers, and fewer shipping options, which means higher prices in general. And smaller, lower-producing manufacturing companies have less access to affordable, expedient shipping.
Service-First
Mindset
“It’s important to keep all of these different factors in mind when shopping,” says Boris. “All of Atelier Maison & Co.’s furniture is handcrafted and made from hardwoods, because quality is our main priority. But we always like to educate our customers on what goes into the pricing. That way, even if they go somewhere else, they’ll be able to make the best possible decision.”
