Selecting Furniture for Him and Her

Have you ever experienced picking out furniture with your partner? Chances are, you've had quite a few disagreements about the style, the design, and even the material of every piece of furniture in the store. It's a common sight to see couple arguing about the furniture they want to get for their home. Sometimes I really have to agree that bachelors have it easy compared to married men. Why would I say this? Think about it. Bachelors can buy any piece of furniture they want and stick it anywhere they want to. As for married men, every furniture-related decision will have to go through a series of arguments and debates before anything can be purchased. Whether it's a couch for the living room or a futon for the den, it's never easy finding and buying furniture for couples.

This is because men and women have entirely different opinions on what makes a good piece of furniture. When men think of furnishings for the home, they think of straight, clean lines, uncluttered designs, muted colors like tan, brown, and black, and large-scale builds with leather or plain fabrics. They like functional pieces with simple, contemporary looks, whether they are for wooden or upholstered furniture.

Women, however, go for pastel colors and floral designs, because for them, it gives the furniture style and elegance. They like floral, chintz, silk, smooth and satiny fabrics for upholstery. With regards to the architecture, women prefer curved backs, rolled arms, and extra details like skirting, pillows and cording. Overall, women's tastes go for elegant, with French, Italian, and English flavors.

Considering these factors, it's no wonder that couples rarely agree on what to buy or build for their homes. Their likes and dislikes will unavoidably collide with each other every chance they get. Men will see the women's tastes as fussy and uncomfortable, while the women begin to think that men have no sense of style whatsoever.

The key to resolving this dispute is understanding both of your preferences. Instead of looking for the obvious differences in taste and style, why not look for the common factors that you both have? Find some common ground and work from there. Perhaps you'd find that you both like laminates and stripes. Or maybe it's that movado clock you got for your 1st anniversary. Discover what you both like and try to see if the other details can fall into place around that common theme.

You can also try compromising. Combine your tastes and see if you don't find something that will match both your standards. For example, he can have a large, sturdy sofa for him, and add some floral cushions for her. You can work around a color scheme that she likes, and incorporate a leather chair for him. Or the family room might have dark wooden paneling and straight lines for him, but it can also have floral fabrics and accessories that would appeal to her.

Finding a common ground can work very well in resolving the differences that can crop up. Each one should be able to express their likes and dislikes. This way, serious disagreements can be avoided and you will have a home that is both functional and beautiful.

About the author:

Azlan Irda is the co-founder of Acura Furniture which provides a great selection of quality furniture at affordable price. Visit our website for the best Ashley furniture you can find online.

- Azlan Irda