Brand new furniture can definitely change the look of your home, but which type should you choose; bespoke furniture or off the shelf?

When picking out new furniture you have to consider several factors including your budget, material, style and how it blends in with the rest of your furniture. In this case, you have two options, either buy furniture off the shelf or get it custom-made by a professional, skilful joiner.

The difference between bespoke furniture and off the shelf

Bespoke furniture is specially custom-made to fit the customer's special requirements. Experienced, knowledgeable joiners work with a wide range of materials to produce the perfect piece and bring the customer's ideas to life. 

Off the shelf, furniture is mass produced in uniform styles. It can be transported in parts and assembled at home. 

Which is better, bespoke furniture or off the shelf?

If you decided to buy new furniture, and you're unsure whether to choose bespoke or off the shelf, go ahead and weigh up the advantages and disadvantages prior to your purchase. 

Here's what can help you decide...

Advantages of bespoke furniture

• Bespoke furniture is made to fit any unusually shaped spaces, it is unique and specially created to complete the overall interior design of your home and at the same time suit your individual style and preferred design.
• Picking the right shape, fabric, material and colours is your choice.
• Bespoke joinery can be a more eco-friendly option.
• You are involved directly in the furniture design process and it is up to your to choose the professional joiner that you want to work with.
• You won't have to assemble the parts.
• Thanks to a high level of joinery and carpentry involved in this process, you can be sure that your bespoke furniture will be more durable as opposed to off the shelf.

Disadvantages of bespoke furniture

• It is likely to cost more as it is specially designed to fit your needs and requirements. You may have to pay extra for the fact that your bespoke furniture is handmade and requires professional joinery skills to be created.
• Bespoke furniture will take more time to produce since it is designed.

Advantages of off the shelf furniture

• It comes in a large variety of sizes, colours, designs and shapes and it costs less than bespoke furniture. You can match pieces and create a well-organised look.
• As long as it is in stock you can take it home right away.
• Off the shelf furniture is normally available in “flat-packed” boxes which make it easier for you to transport it and save money on delivery.
• You can assemble it yourself just by following the instructions.

Disadvantages of off the shelf furniture

• The materials used to produce off the shelf furniture are often cheaper and lower quality.
• It is available in uniform designs, which won't be unique for your home.
• As off the shelf furniture is not produced to a high standard as bespoke furniture, it may not have a long lifespan.
• It is more difficult to find the exact furniture that suits your needs and at the same time your space requirements.

Would you like to find out more details? All you need to do is ask!

Whether you choose bespoke or off the shelf furniture, think about your options carefully. Make sure that you are happy with off the shelf furniture before you purchase it or if you decided to go for bespoke, find a professional, experienced and skilful joiner! Get in touch with S Simpson Joinery today on 01787 224 535, 07880 861 902 or send us an email at info@ssimpsonjoinery.co.uk and we will be here to help! Whatever your requirements you can count on us to deliver a high standard of service at all times.