What You Should Know About Furniture

Furniture is a large part of interior design. It combines functionality with aesthetics and comfort. It is also a big investment that requires proper planning and decision making. It is important to consider the needs of your family and lifestyle before buying a new piece of furniture. A good piece of furniture should be able to withstand the wear and tear from everyday use. It should be made from durable materials that are easy to maintain and clean. If you have kids and pets, then leather or other stain-resistant fabrics may be a better choice than cotton or linen.

The word furniture comes from the Latin term mobilium and literally means “movable objects.” Early furniture was often multifunctional, such as tables that transformed into beds or trunks for storage. The design and construction of furniture became a cultural expression as people collected pieces that had value, and artisans developed different styles of joinery.

Furniture can be created out of a wide variety of materials, with wood being the most common. It is typically carved or molded, using a variety of methods that reflect local culture. It is also possible to cast or use various plastics in the construction of furniture.

In general, furniture has not undergone revolutionary development in functional terms for the past 5,000 years. A folding stool from 1500 bce fulfills the same function as an ergonomic office chair. Only since World War II, with completely new synthetic materials and fabrication techniques, has there been a significant change in the form and utility of furniture.