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Furniture for Couples

by Azlan Irda

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. I've seen a lot of couples fighting for every bit of furniture that they want. Times like these, I often think that bachelors really have it easy compared to married men. Why would I say this? Bachelors get to pick anything they want and put it anywhere they want it. Meanwhile, married men have to undergo a series of obstacle courses just to get that couch they've always wanted. Whether it's a set of chairs for the kitchen or a futon for the den, it's never easy finding and buying furniture for couples.

Men and women are worlds apart when it comes to their tastes and likes in furniture. Men prefer straight lines, neat designs, plain patterns and muted colors for fabrics, and substantial builds for their furnishings. Contemporary, functional pieces with a casual theme go well for men, 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. Furniture designs with rolled arms, curved backs, and details like skirting, cording, and pillows or cushions go well for women. 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 every chance they get. Men will see the women's tastes as fastidious and uninviting, 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. Try to look for the common factors, instead of focusing on the different tastes you have. Find some common ground and work from there. Maybe you'll discover that you both like maple furniture and stripes. Or maybe it's that armoire 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. Try to see if you can merge what you both like in furniture and find a theme that works. For example, he can have a large-scale work desk in the office, and she can add pastel curtains to brighten the room. You can have a color scheme that she likes, and include finishing touches for him. Or the family room might have dark wooden paneling and straight lines for him, but it can also have bright fabrics and accessories that would appeal to her.

Compromising can work very well in resolving the differences that can crop up. Each one should have a chance to express opinions, 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 furniture you can find online.

Published March 15th, 2007

Filed in Ecommerce, Internet