Buying furniture for your new home is an exciting journey, but it can also be a significant financial commitment. Setting a realistic budget for each room, prioritising quality where it counts, and considering hidden costs are essential strategies for a measured approach to outfitting your new space. With that in mind, here is a guide to help you allocate funds smartly, maximise your purchases, and successfully decorate your new home, whether you are buying essential home furniture or adding a few decor touches to create a homey atmosphere.
Set a Budget by Room
When planning furniture for a new home, allocating your budget by room can make spending more manageable. Begin by prioritising key spaces—typically, the bedroom and living room require the largest share of your budget due to essential items like a bed and sofa. Here is a general allocation to consider:
1. Living Room:
Expect to spend around 30-40% of your budget here. A quality sofa, which often serves as the room’s centrepiece, can be worth a splurge for both comfort and style. Essential living room furniture in Singapore also includes a coffee table, a TV stand, and perhaps a side table or two.
2. Bedroom:
Allocate around 20-30% of your budget here. Invest in a high-quality mattress and bed frame as they impact your comfort and health. Other necessary pieces include a wardrobe and nightstands. Bedroom furniture ranges from basic to luxury, so plan according to your sleep and storage needs.
3. Dining Area:
Dining room furniture would generally take up about 10-15% of your budget. A sturdy dining table and chairs, which will often be used for gatherings, can be worth investing in. Quality vs. affordability is key here; a well-made dining set can last years, making it an astute choice for social and family meals.
4. Other Spaces:
Depending on your needs, consider allocating the remaining 15-25% to other areas. Space-saving furniture is essential in Singapore, where compact rooms are common. Think about investing in multipurpose pieces, such as shelving units, a home office desk, or outdoor furniture for a balcony or patio area.
Knowing where to prioritise quality and where to save can help you stretch your budget effectively. Here are some examples of what’s worth investing in:
Invest in Quality:
Prioritise high-usage items like a good sofa, dining table, and bed frame. These foundational pieces endure daily use, so durability and comfort are critical. Solid wood furniture, such as an oak dining table, offers longevity and retains its charm over time, which may justify a higher price.
Save on Accessories:
For items like side tables, lamps, and decorative pieces, affordability is key. These items can be found at lower price points without compromising on style, allowing you to change your decor over time without a big investment.
By balancing quality and affordability, you can allocate your budget to create both a functional and aesthetically pleasing home without overspending.
Consider Long-Term Investment
Some home furniture pieces are best seen as long-term investments. High-quality items that are built to last can often save money in the long run, as they do not require frequent replacements. Examples include:
Mattress:
A quality mattress is vital for sleep quality and overall health. Investing in a well-made mattress can provide better sleep for years, making it a worthwhile investment.
Solid Wood Furniture:
Solid wood, particularly teak or oak, is durable, environmentally friendly, and ages beautifully. Wooden furniture like bed frames, dining tables, and cabinets are ideal for both practicality and adding a touch of personalised interior design to your space.
Long-term investments also make sense if you are creating a personalised interior design. Classic pieces like wooden dining tables or well-designed shelving add character to your space and grow with you, unlike trendy items that may require regular updates.
Explore Local and Online Options
Singapore offers a wealth of options for finding high-quality furniture locally or online. Comparing local stores and online platforms can help you find the best deals without sacrificing quality.
Local Furniture Stores:
Shopping locally has the advantage of seeing the pieces in person, allowing you to assess quality, comfort, and fit. Many local retailers also offer customisation options, which can add a personalised touch to your decor.
Online Platforms:
While local options are beneficial, online platforms such as Taobao offer budget-friendly alternatives for those seeking budget-friendly solutions, especially for rental home decor or temporary decorating solutions. Just remember to check reviews and product descriptions carefully to ensure that you are getting what you paid for.
Hidden Costs and Delivery
Beyond the purchase price, furniture buying often involves additional costs. Delivery fees, assembly services, and customisation options are all factors to consider.
Delivery and Assembly Fees:
Some furniture shops in Singapore offer free delivery, but many charge a fee, especially for larger items like sofas and dining tables. Assembly costs may also apply, so check with the retailer beforehand to avoid unexpected expenses.
Customisation:
If you are seeking bespoke items, like a particular wood finish or unique measurements, expect to pay more for customisation. While custom pieces can significantly enhance your home’s decor, they should be factored into your overall budget to prevent overspending.
Ultimately, setting an appropriate budget when buying furniture for your new home is not as daunting once you know where to splurge and where to hold back. Whether you are looking for sturdy living room furniture or charming accessories, Soul and Tables has everything you need to fill your home with style and depth.
To learn more about how you can transform your home with our products, please contact us today.