10 Mistakes to Avoid When Buying New Furniture for Your Home
Buying new furniture is exciting — it marks a fresh chapter in your home. Whether you’re decorating a new place in Burnley, upgrading your living room in Colne, or giving your bedroom in Barnoldswick a complete makeover, furniture sets the tone for your entire home. However, one wrong move can lead to discomfort, poor aesthetics, or wasted money.
To help you make smart decisions, we’ve put together the top 10 furniture-buying mistakes to avoid. We'll also share expert insights and link to some of the most stylish and functional furniture options from Evoke Home. So, before you click "Add to Cart" or visit that furniture showroom, read this blog — your home (and wallet) will thank you!
Mistake 1: Not Measuring Your Space Properly
Why It’s a Problem:
One of the most common mistakes is buying furniture that’s either too big or too small for your room. You may fall in love with a large sliding door wardrobe, only to realise it blocks half your bedroom window.
Pro Tip:
Measure your floor area, wall height, and doorways. Mark out the furniture size with painter’s tape to visualise how much space it’ll take. This is especially important in towns like Nelson or Foulridge, where traditional homes can have unique layouts.
Mistake 2: Ignoring Your Lifestyle Needs
Why It’s a Problem:
What works in a single person’s apartment in Colne might not suit a busy family in Burnley. You need furniture that matches your everyday lifestyle.
Pro Tip:
- Got kids or pets? Consider scratch-resistant dining chairs or easy-clean leather sofas.
- Love to entertain? Look into dining table and chair sets with extendable tables.
- Need storage in a small space? Choose a storage ottoman bed.
Mistake 3: Prioritising Looks Over Comfort
Why It’s a Problem:
Yes, that mid-century modern armchair looks stunning — but can you sit in it for more than 10 minutes without aching?
Pro Tip:
Always test furniture in-store if possible. If you're shopping online, read reviews and check return policies. Local residents in Barnoldswick and Burnley should take advantage of local showrooms where you can try before you buy.
Mistake 4: Overlooking Quality and Materials
Why It’s a Problem:
Low-quality furniture might save you money now, but it often wears out quickly. Materials like chipboard can sag or warp, especially in wardrobes or beds.
Pro Tip:
Invest in solid, long-lasting pieces like:
- Hinged door wardrobes with sturdy hinges and panels.
- Wardrobes with drawers offering high-quality runners.
- Dining chairs made with hardwood frames and high-density foam.
Mistake 5: Forgetting About Storage
Why It’s a Problem:
A beautiful minimalist bed might look great — but where will you store your extra bedding, clothes, or seasonal items?
Pro Tip:
Go for multi-functional furniture like:
- Wardrobes with built-in drawers
- Beds with under-bed storage or lift-up bases, like storage ottoman beds
For homes in Nelson or Colne where storage might be limited, smart furniture choices make a huge difference.
Mistake 6: Ignoring Colour and Material Coordination
Why It’s a Problem:
Furniture that doesn’t match the existing colour palette or finishes in your home will stick out like a sore thumb.
Pro Tip:
Take pictures of your room before shopping. Look at flooring, walls, and other furniture pieces. If your home features warm tones, avoid overly cool greys or bright whites.
In traditional homes around Foulridge, for example, darker woods often work better than glossy modern finishes.
Mistake 7: Buying Entire Sets Without Flexibility
Why It’s a Problem:
Furniture sets often include matching items that may not suit your space or actual needs. You might end up with extra pieces you don’t use or that crowd your room.
Pro Tip:
Mix and match! Combine a modern wardrobe with rustic dining chairs. This approach not only gives your home character but also allows for smarter use of space.
Mistake 8: Not Considering Delivery and Assembly
Why It’s a Problem:
Not every store offers hassle-free delivery or assembly. The last thing you want is a flat-pack wardrobe sitting in boxes for weeks.
Pro Tip:
Check if the retailer provides delivery and assembly, like the team at Evoke Home does. Especially for locals in Burnley, Barnoldswick, or Nelson, using a service that covers Lancashire ensures peace of mind.
Mistake 9: Not Setting a Realistic Budget
Why It’s a Problem:
Going too cheap can mean low quality, while overspending can lead to buyer’s remorse. Either way, you end up dissatisfied.
Pro Tip:
Set a realistic budget and research value-for-money options. At Evoke Home, you can find affordable and stylish pieces across:
Mistake 10: Ignoring Long-Term Use and Trends
Why It’s a Problem:
Trendy furniture might look great now but can quickly go out of style or lose its functionality.
Pro Tip:
Go for timeless designs and neutral colours for major furniture pieces. Add trendier accents using rugs, cushions, or wall art. In towns like Colne or Burnley, timeless furniture means better resale and long-term use.
Bonus: Tips for Furniture Shopping in Burnley, Colne, and Nearby Areas
Local Advantage:
When shopping for furniture in Lancashire towns like Burnley, Colne, Barnoldswick, Foulridge, or Nelson, always consider:
- Local assembly and delivery options
- Road access and space for large items
- Interior architecture of local homes (many are period properties with limited space)
Conclusion
Avoiding these ten furniture-buying mistakes can save you time, stress, and money. The right choices will enhance the look, comfort, and functionality of your space for years to come — whether you’re furnishing a chic apartment in Colne or updating your family home in Barnoldswick.
Always measure, plan, and match your purchases with your lifestyle. And don’t forget to explore quality and stylish options at Evoke Home to find pieces you’ll love living with.
FAQs
1. What should I look for when buying a new wardrobe?
Look for durability, storage options like drawers or hanging space, and materials that match your room. Explore hinged or sliding door wardrobes depending on your space.
2. Is flat-pack furniture easy to assemble?
It depends on the design. Choose options from stores like Evoke Home that offer assembly services for convenience.
3. Are storage beds worth it for small homes?
Absolutely. Storage ottoman beds are a lifesaver in compact spaces like apartments in Nelson or Foulridge.
4. How do I make sure new furniture fits with my décor?
Match colours, textures, and materials. Neutral tones work with most themes, and you can always personalise with cushions or throws.
5. What’s the best furniture store for delivery in Burnley and surrounding areas?
Evoke Home is a trusted choice offering delivery and assembly across Burnley, Colne, Barnoldswick, and more.