Thanks, Judy! Are the any mid level priced with quality?

First you need to define your style, are you into the mid-18th century cherry? Pennsylvania House, Ethan Allen do that well. Lee is gorgeous but very expensive. Hickory is well made. Drexel is nice. But, just go to top quality shops and look for sales. For a family room I love Lazy Boy. It has become very stylish and you can choose fabrics. I don't do puffy recliners and you can get modern sleek Lazy Boy as well as wing backs etc. What is your style and budget? What room is it for?

We do contemporary classic furniture, what kind of furniture you are looking for?

Hi amcox,

I have furniture from multiple sources, but other than my antiques, the only furniture that has held up for more than a few years is my La-Z-Boy sofa, chair-and-a-half and ottoman (with storage!) in brown chenille http://www.la-z-boy.com/Site-Search/?daphne/ . I've had them for nearly 10 years and they still look pretty new; the fabric makes it feel like you are sitting on a giant teddy bear and induces sleep. The down side is the back is too low for tall people, so I will be replacing the set as soon as my husband decides which replacement he likes the most (leaning toward http://www.ekornes.com/us/stressless-sofas/stressless-arion-highback/3-seater ). Also, it comes with overly large throw pillows that get in the way, so I recommend ditching them and finding pillows that you do like.

Good luck,
Shari

spkcreative@gmail.com

Shari P Kantor Abstract Art: http://www.spkcreative.com/
SPKCreative Fabric and Wallpaper Line: http://www.spoonflower.com/profiles/spkcreative
SPKCreative Stationery Line: http://www.zazzle.com/spkcreative*

I like the clean and straight look. I didn't realize that furniture shopping is just as challenging as home shopping. I don't need the top of the line, but I want quality.

I would invest in whatever wood pieces you will get. I still have some of my very first wood purchases. (Buffet, coffee tables, dining room set, antique kitchen table, end tables,) The upholstered pieces have come and gone, more times than I care to count, regardless of the cost or quality. I do think LazyBoy has amazing staying power for upholstered pieces! You have already settled on a fairly modern style, so you've passed the big first hurdle!

The longest lasting sofas I've owned or ordered for others in the mid-range are Flexsteel. Mine is 20yrs old and going strong; their line is mostly of traditional style, but there are a few contemporary choices.

Thanks! I looked at Flexsteel, also. I really didn't see the look that I've been searching for. I will visit, again. I may be asking for too much.

Flexsteel is fabulous as far as the frame goes, it will outlast the upholstery unless you have it in a living room where you rarely sit on it! What room are you decorating? The living room? Are you looking mostly for upholstered furniture or the whole room including coffee table and side tables etc. Don't buy a set of furniture from any company, by a sofa and a few chairs but if you buy the normal set at a store that comes together it will look like a furniture store grouping. Decide what colors you want first since you know your style.

Joan, I'm actually furnishing the entire home. I'm starting with the family/living room, master bedroom, and kitchen (dinette set and barstools).

Regarding the upholstery, there will not be any kids. So, it will be treated with care.

Flexsteel has special steel frames. I am attaching a few pictures from both Flexsteel and Lazy Boy. If you asked me twenty years ago if I would ever buy Lazy Boy I would have said No way!! I tend to think of them as velvet recliners and something Archie Bunker would use. But it has become very chic with large choice in upholstery. And is reasonable. Barbara Barry does a line for Baker that is sleek and sort of 1920's modern, you might like some of her pieces.

Kinsley Sofa and room Lazy Boy

WOW! I totally agree with you on the impression of LayZBoy. Archie Bunker is spot on. I'm surprised with the 2nd pic attached. I've received mixed reviews on their quality.

For the price its well made. Upholtered goods aren't meant to last 20 years. The fabric will wear out. You need hard wood frames. Look at the Lazy Boy website, they have other sleek sofas.

The other two sofas are flexsteel. They are nice and the steel frame is strong.

If you're talking wood furniture, consider custom made in the USA, you might be surprised how the cost compares. We can ship nationwide- send info on what you're looking for and we can quote it for you!