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Now, with the ability to finance pretty much anything, you're confronted with a vast range of options.
Faint memories of a lecture on the Craftsman era during your architectural history classes spark a question. Were handmade products genuinely superior?
You notice a common trend as you visit numerous stores: the advocacy of factory-made furniture.
So, which should you opt for, handmade or factory-produced furniture? Let's discuss.
The Perks of Factory-Made Furniture
The furniture industry has thrived alongside the economic boom of recent years, with the market size for mass-produced furniture growing at an annual rate of 2.9%.
However, does this surge in popularity imply factory-made furniture outperforms its handmade counterpart? This largely depends on your personal needs and preferences.
Here are some advantages of factory-made furniture:
Quality Control:
Within a production facility, furniture undergoes meticulous examination. The furniture is assessed and scrutinized by several individuals before it's boxed.
A potential pitfall could be mishandling during shipping or storage. However, if you can find a factory-sealed, unopened set, you're likely to receive a robust product.
Cost-effectiveness:
Factory-produced furniture offers decent longevity for the investment. Consider the annual cost of owning a factory-made set, priced between $700-$1000, against a handmade set that could cost between $6,000-$10,000.
If your lifestyle includes frequent relocations, or you plan to replace your set within the next four to five years, factory-made might be a suitable option.
Ease of Transport:
Factory-made furniture tends to be easier to transport, especially if you relocate often. The ability to disassemble and reassemble these pieces allows for easier movement, even in constricted spaces.
The Merits of Handmade Furniture
The craftsman era celebrated quality, yet, during the same period, entire houses could be ordered from the Sears catalog, shipped, and assembled.
So, did the people of the past exhibit greater wisdom? Let's examine the virtues of handmade furniture.
Longevity:
If you're a recent homeowner planning to stay put for 30 years or more, handmade furniture might be the right choice.
Sure, it's pricier, but imagine the durability and timeless appeal it could provide for your family, even extending to your grandchildren.
Consider the annual cost of a $6,000 piece over 30 years—it comes down to just $200. And the furniture will likely last even longer.
Personalization:
Mass-produced furniture lacks uniqueness. You're limited to the manufacturer's design.
However, if you're seeking something tailored to your style, handmade furniture is the way to go. You can select from an extensive array of stains, fabrics, finishes, wood grains, and so forth, offering thousands of potential combinations.
Retention of Value:
Handmade furniture can be considered an investment. Even if it's sold generations later, it'll still fetch a good price.
It provides enduring functionality while maintaining its value.
Handmade Prevails
In terms of sustained value, handmade furniture clearly takes the crown. Nonetheless, factory-made furniture has its own advantages in terms of cost-effectiveness and ease of transport.
Ultimately, the decision rests upon your personal preferences, budget, and long-term plans. Consider the purpose, durability, customization options, and value retention when making your choice.
Whether you go for the charm of handmade craftsmanship or the convenience of factory-produced pieces, upgrading your furniture will undoubtedly bring a fresh and stylish touch to your home. It's time to bid.