Here’s what to look out for when purchasing new furniture, to avoid making mistakes.

Size can be deceiving and furniture pieces can look bigger or smaller against walls from room to room, depending on where they’re placed. Room sizes and ceiling heights also affect the visual presentation of furniture. It’s essential then to make sure you’re clear about dimensions and what impact within a room, your item will have.

1. Measure up

Dig out the measuring tape, it’s time to check all the measurements:

Firstly, know your room size. You need it in your head when visiting furniture showrooms/or online, to not waste time trying to work out how you can fit something in a space you can’t. Don’t forget your radiators, bay windows, window heights, alcoves and doorways also come into the equation, as well as access.

When you find furniture that suits you, make note of its height, width and length. You can mark out the measurements on your floor, using masking tape or paper. X marks the spot, to visualise the exact space, e.g. the new sofa, will take up.

Do you want the sofa pushed back against the wall, or in the middle of the room? Check there’s enough space to walk around it.

Consider which entrance to your home has the easiest access for the delivery man. Will it fit through the front door, hallway, garden doors or a window?

Time to talk style and colour.

Mood boards are a great way to gather inspiration for your home before deciding which furniture items you’d like to invest in.

2. Order samples

A swatch of fabric and tester pots of paint lets you see how the room will look. You can test the colours and feel the quality and durability of furniture fabrics, as well as test for stain removal. On a daily basis between adults, children and pets, what you buy should be adequately built to sustain its use.

Bespoke and Made to Order furniture is what we do. Our Made to Order sofas are upholstered in the best quality fabrics, Made in England, tested for durability and texture, and available in 13 different colours and finishes.

Choose from colours such as ‘Teddy Ivory’ and ‘Kensington Mink’. Add metallic accents like gold castor wheels, and even choose which legs.

Tick all the boxes, and get everything you want. You can read more about our Made to Order sofa collection and buyer's guide here.

3. Style and sustainability

Ok, so you have selected the statement furniture of your dreams. Now it’s time to look at the practicalities. Is it sustainable? Our wooden products come from certified plantations, are sustainably sourced and are FSC certified.

Does the style complement your home’s personality in terms of style and colour?

See it styled by some of our customers on Instagram @OutandOutOriginal for interior inspiration and ideas.

4. Purpose

How are you planning on using your furniture?

Be it a table, desk, chair, shelving or otherwise, ensure what you buy serves its purpose for use.

Check drawer and cupboard depths for adequate storage to put things away, as well as strength and support for heavy books and files. Get what you need, as well as want, so what you have has a function in your home, and isn’t an obstacle.

5. Is the furniture item adaptable to more than one room?

Versatility is important in furniture choice for long-term use. Trends, styles and purposes are variable to change over time. So, think about the flexibility of your piece from room to room, being interchangeable, and also potentially fitting somewhere else.