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Sonali Sokhal

How does one choose the right furniture? Some tips from leading interior decorators.

Time was when furniture shopping was need-based. People generally preferred practical, useful and heavy pieces that would last them a lifetime. Today's furniture is a blend of the modern and traditional or, sometimes, kitsch and elegance, crafting a range of products that echo the owner's persona.

Sometimes an eclectic blend of metal, glass and marble can result in stunning creations. Leading Delhi designer Punam Kalra, who runs I'M Gallery, recommends glass-topped table standing on marble slabs instead of the usual study table.

Some of her avant-garde ideas include dolphin-shaped chairs in bold reds or blues, a hibiscus that blossoms into a chair and a banjo-type cupboard for a child's room.

Forget heavy and bulky, says Punam. Today's furniture is noticeably light and airy, with sleek metallic touches. A delicate decoration like a glass-topped centre table, with carved wooden peacocks for bases, can add pizzazz to any room.

"Simplicity with elegance are the keywords of modern furnishings. Nature-inspired themes, bold colours and wacky shapes are in vogue," says Punam

Vinit Kapoor, who owns a lifestyle store called Angelo, agrees. Kapoor says that each of his pieces is distinctive and has been hand picked by experts who understand the nuances of fine living. The result is an eclectic mix of bold designs, warm hues and inviting comfort from across the globe.

Says Jyoti Punj of The Inside Story, another well-known designer furniture store in Delhi, "Furniture should be light and durable but with an element of fun in it. People should give up sticking to the tried and tested because it is all about exploring the beauty of art and nature within your four walls."

Traditional wood, according to these modern decorators, is out of fashion, as it tends to give furniture a weighty look. Pastels and dull colours are also out. " It's time to bring in the reds, blues, yellows and pinks to add vivacity to your rooms," says Jyoti.

However, these exotic designs come with a piece of cautionary advice. "Fusion furniture looks good only in modernistic houses. You can't expect it to go well with period furniture. Similarly, experiment with new material only if you are sure that the designs go with your basic décor," she says.

For example, an interesting looking high chair may be used to decorate a monotonous lobby. Also, a mix and match of sofa colours, along with a jazzy carpet would complete the look of any room.

Adds Kapoor, "Today trendy means simple lines that are sleek and extremely chic. In fact, they are the only pieces of furniture that can make a style statement and are comfortable to use."

Here are a few tips for the fashion conscious. Don't assume that high prices mean better quality. Most good furniture come at reasonable prices. Also, always check out the displays in showrooms.

Says Divya Jain, a leading interior decorator, "Try sitting on the chairs or lying down on the beds at the showroom. It shouldn't merely look good, it should feel great too."

Ask yourself the following questions while buying any furniture. Where does it go in the house? Are pets a consideration? How about lounging teenagers who will be watching television for hours? For family rooms, buy stuff that is comfortable as well as chic.

Buy pieces that are trendy, yet hardy. These could include bouncy leather couches, easy chairs, recliners and cabinets whose surface may be wiped clean of sticky hands as often as needed.

A dining room should be tastefully decorated because that is where you entertain all your guests. Says Kapoor, "Think about it this way. Do you and your friends like to linger around for an after-dinner coffee and cognac? In that case, the dining chairs should be very comfortable. Also, always identify the colours that please you. Colours like beige, tan, black, dark walnut and cherry in the dining area are the rage."

It's very important to focus on your individual style. Decorating is a personal expression of your home and persona. If you like a quiet, uncluttered home, then don't think you will be comfortable in a crowded and cluttered environment

"The idea," as Punam says, "is to let your imagination roll, and let nature help you fuse some oomph into your interiors."

Buying tips

Look for a reputable establishment: Many furniture stores offer incentives and discounts at the cost of quality. Don't fall for this ruse.

Ask for a written guarantee in after-sales service: If an establishment is not ready to give this then it is not worth your consideration.

Check out how the showroom is displayed: If someone can't take care of their showroom, how can you be sure they're going to effectively take care of your home?

Check for quality: Don't assume that high prices mean good quality, or that affordable prices mean poor quality. The price must match quality and looks.

Try it out: Experience the furniture you are going to buy. Sit on it or lie down to get a feel. Open the doors and drawers of cupboards and dressers. There is no better way to find out how something is going to work or look than to try it.

Buy what you like: Don't buy furniture which is not your style simply because everyone in your peer group has it. Go for styles that suit your image and choose colours that appeal to your sensibilities.

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