Everything we do is delivered with care and respect because we understand your home is a place that truly matters. With this in mind, our next collection of blogs will focus on how you can get things just right with your new home; right from the top of the list like picking a location down to the little details like choosing cushions. There might be a big difference, but both matter when it comes to making a home your own.

Furniture is one of the most important choices when settling into a home. It shapes how a space looks, how comfortable it feels, and how well it supports everyday life. At Vivly, we focus on quality, durability, and thoughtful design, values that are just as important when choosing furniture as they are when choosing a home.

Here’s what to consider when selecting pieces that will last.

1. Take Your Time, The Right Piece is Worth Waiting For

A new home often comes with the urge to furnish it quickly, but the best interiors take time to come together. A sofa might seem perfect in a showroom but feel uncomfortable after a few months. A dining table that looks right now may not suit your lifestyle long-term.

Living in your home before making big purchases gives you time to understand how you use the space. It also helps you avoid costly mistakes by ensuring that each piece truly fits your needs.

What to Do Instead:

• Use temporary solutions – A simple side table or second-hand piece can fill a gap while you search for something long-term.

• Measure carefully – Scale matters. A piece that looks perfect online or in a showroom might overpower a room once it’s in place.

• Test layouts first – Rearranging existing furniture can reveal the best way to use a space before committing to new pieces.

2. Know Your Materials: Wood, Veneer, or MDF?

The material a piece of furniture is made from affects its durability, price, and long-term appearance. Understanding the differences helps when making an informed choice.

Solid Wood

A strong, long-lasting material that can be refinished or repaired over time. Scratches can be sanded out, and the natural grain develops character as it ages. Best for: Dining tables, bed frames, bookshelves.

Veneer

A thin layer of real wood bonded to a cheaper core like MDF or plywood. It provides the look of solid wood at a lower cost but can chip or peel. Best for: Stylish storage units and occasional tables.

MDF (Medium-Density Fibreboard) A smooth, man-made material that’s easy to paint and budget-friendly. However, it does not hold up well to moisture and cannot be refinished like real wood. Best for: Painted furniture and budget-friendly wardrobes.

How to Spot Quality:

• Weight test – Solid wood furniture is heavier than veneer or MDF

• Check the grain – Real wood has natural variations, while veneer looks more uniform

• Tap the surface – MDF has a hollow sound, while solid wood has a denser tone

3. Look at the Joints, How Is It Put Together?

The way a piece of furniture is assembled tells you a lot about how long it will last. Weak connections can loosen, wobble, or break over time.

What to Look For:

• Dovetail joints – Found in high-quality drawers, these interlocking joints improve durability

• Mortise and tenon joints – A traditional technique used in tables and chairs for extra strength

• Bolts and screws – Secure and long-lasting, especially when combined with solid materials.

What to Avoid:

• Stapled joints – Often found in cheaply made furniture, they loosen easily

• Thin or fragile legs – If the legs do not look strong enough for the weight of the piece, they probably are not

• Glue-only construction – Without additional support, glued pieces tend to separate over time.

4. Cleanability, Can It Handle Real Life?

Furniture should be easy to maintain, especially in high-traffic areas. The best materials resist stains, scratches, and everyday wear.

Best Materials for Easy Cleaning:

• Leather & Faux Leather – Wipes clean easily but may need occasional conditioning

• Microfiber – Resists stains and is easy to vacuum

• Performance Fabrics – Designed to withstand spills, making them ideal for sofas and dining chairs.

What to Think About:

• Will it hold up to children or pets? Darker colours and stain-resistant fabrics are more practical

• How much maintenance is required? Some materials need regular care to stay in good condition

• Is it easy to wipe down? Glossy surfaces show fingerprints more than matte finishes.

If a delicate fabric appeals to you, check whether it has a removable, machine-washable cover, particularly for sofas and upholstered chairs.

5. Think About Ergonomics, Especially for Families

Comfort is just as important as style. If a chair is too low, a desk too high, or a sofa too deep, it will not feel right for daily use.

Getting the Right Fit:

• Dining tables & chairs – A standard dining table height is 76cm, but for children, look for chairs with built-in footrests for better comfort

• Sofas & armchairs – A seat should allow you to sit back without your feet dangling

• Desks & workspaces – A typical desk height is 73-76cm, but pairing it with an adjustable chair provides better back support.

For Family-Friendly Living:

• Rounded corners – Sharp edges on coffee tables can be a hazard for young children

• Stable, weighted pieces – Tall bookshelves and wardrobes should be secured to the wall to prevent tipping

• Non-toxic finishes – Look for furniture with low-VOC paints and finishes to maintain better indoor air quality.

Choose Furniture That Works for Your Home

At Vivly, we believe in taking the time to get things right, whether it is selecting the perfect location or choosing furniture that works for everyday life.

Before you buy, ask yourself:

• Does it fit your space and lifestyle?

• Is it made from durable, high-quality materials?

Will it be easy to maintain and clean?

Carefully chosen furniture does more than complete a room. It makes daily life more comfortable and supports the way you live.

Looking for more expert home advice? Get in touch.