3 Tips for Choosing Luxury Leather Furniture

Leather furnishings, long associated with chic style, will help elevate a room's aesthetic. Today, I'll be sharing with you 3 important factors to consider when investing in luxury leather furniture for your home…

Tip #1: Select the Right Leather Type

Did you know that leather from the same cow can have different levels of quality and pricing depending on how it's processed? For visual sake, imagine that the overall leather hide is 5" thick (it's not, but it will make the visual easier). The top 1" layer is called the "top grain." This is the most durable, long-lasting, and comfortable portion of the hide. The lower layers of the hide, or the splits, won't last as long, often crack over time, and don't feel as comfortable or luxurious to sit on as top grain.

These splits are commonly used in furnishings and shouldn't be considered poor quality. However, they do have shorter lifespans and limited performance. There are other substances referred to as leather, such as "vegan leather," which is simply a synthetic fabric, and "bonded leather," which combines  real leather (top grain or splits) with other material scraps. These last two leather-type products are often used in big-box furniture store products and should be significantly lower in price (and quality) than the higher-quality namesakes.

Tip #2: Consider Colors & Details

No matter the type of leather product you are considering, additional details are often used to add character to the furniture. For example, tufting can create an old-world sophistication, while nailhead trim can accentuate the unique lines of the item. Since leather is dyed, there are countless colors to choose from, though options vary by manufacturer. Neutral tones are always a timeless choice.

Tip #3: Keep Maintenance in Mind

As mentioned earlier, the quality of leather varies depending on processing and finishing. Some finishes are easier to care for than others. In general, keeping the surface of your leather dust-free with a soft cloth or a soft brush on a vacuum is great for everyday use. Spills are generally addressed by using a soft, moist cloth. Be sure not to use household detergents or wax on your leather, as this can damage the surface.

For tips on choosing furnishings for your home, read Our Expert Tips on Shopping for Home Furnishings.

Leather represents one of the most versatile and stylish details in home furnishings. Custom, luxury leather furniture can be a significant investment, so it's important to think through all of the aspects prior to making a final decision.  

If you're ready for a team to enhance your home with leather furnishings, we've got your back! Contact us, and let's get to know each other.

Until next time,
Kelly