Is Solid Wood Bedroom Furniture A Smart Investment Or Bad Idea? Our Interior Design Expert Weighs In
You have so many choices when it comes to bedroom furniture that selecting the best option for your home can be overwhelming. You might be tempted to choose a tried-and-true bedroom furniture material, like solid wood, to avoid mishaps. Wood has been used to build furniture for years, but is it really worth the investment? After all, wooden bedroom furniture can get pricey. Bilal Rehman, CEO and principal designer of Bilal Rehman Studio and founder of Bilal Rehman Gallery, revealed that solid wood bedroom furniture is a reliable option that's well worth it.
"Solid wood bedroom furniture is a fantastic investment for several reasons," Rehman shared while speaking exclusively to House Digest. "Firstly, it's incredibly durable and long-lasting compared to other materials. This makes it perfect for furniture that gets a lot of use, like bedroom pieces such as a bedframe or nightstands. Plus, solid wood furniture tends to increase in value over time, especially if it's made from high-quality hardwoods like oak, maple, or cherry." If you have been considering making the switch to solid wood bedroom furniture, you might want to hear more about what Rehman had to say.
How to shop for the best solid wood bedroom furniture
Now you know that solid wood bedroom furniture is a great investment, you might be on your way to selecting a couple of pieces for your home. However, there are a few things to keep in mind before making any purchases. Not all wood furniture is made equal. It is important to educate yourself on the different types of wood on the market and what to expect from each of them as far as longevity and aesthetics. "Opt for pieces made from hardwoods like oak or maple instead of softwoods for better durability and fewer chances of damage," Rehman said in an exclusive interview with House Digest. "Additionally, depending on the type of wood, you might have the option to re-stain it in the future to match a different aesthetic you're into, extending the lifespan of the piece."
Believe it or not, the small things really matter when it comes to solid wood furniture. This includes the joinery method used to combine each piece of wood. Taking note of this detail can help you ensure you're buying furniture that's built to last. "Pay attention to the joinery methods used, such as dovetail or mortise-and-tenon joints, as they signal top-notch craftsmanship and structural strength," Rehman shared. The expert also revealed that properly sealed and finished wood is more likely to withstand things like moisture or scratches.
More affordable alternatives to solid wood
Solid wood is a smart investment if your budget allows for it. However, there are also affordable alternatives that offer many of the same benefits. Luckily, Rehman shared a bit of insight on some of these materials as well. "If you're on a budget, engineered wood products like plywood or medium-density fiberboard (MDF) are worth considering," he said while speaking exclusively to House Digest. "They offer durability and stability at a more affordable price point." The expert explained that engineered wood pieces with a veneer finish are the ones that will typically closely resemble wood.
Refurbished wooden furniture is also a great option for those looking to save money. If you are willing to venture away from wood or wood-like bedroom furniture pieces, you can really broaden your options for sturdy materials. "Alternatively, metal or wrought iron frames can add a stylish touch to your bedroom design, especially for bed frames or accent pieces," Rehman stated. "Ultimately, the right choice depends on what you prefer, your budget, and the vibe you want to create in your bedroom."