Family Resource Management and Consumer Science https://www.kdpublications.

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ISBN: 978-81-974990-8-1

9. Furniture and Household Furnishing: Types

Selection, Care and Maintenance
Dr. Sarita Kumari
Assistant Professor/Head,
P.G Department of Home science, M. D. D. M. College,
Bhimrao Ambedkar Bihar University Muzaffarpur, Bihar.

9.1 Introduction:

Furniture is the first element that catches attention, providing a place where everyone can
sit comfortably and relax. Selecting the right furniture for an office, school, or home not
only enhances the decor but also impacts our physical and mental well-being. In offices,
employees need stimulating environments to work efficiently. At home, everyone desires a
peaceful spot to unwind, while in schools, students require comfortable seating to
concentrate on their studies. Furniture completes the design of our living spaces, taking up
a significant amount of room and making a home feel lived-in and complete. Your home
should be a sanctuary that promotes a healthier lifestyle, both mentally and physically. We
rely on furniture for comfort, storage, seating, and relaxation. A clean, well-equipped office
with appropriate furniture reflects the nature of your business, fostering positive
relationships with business partners and clients. A well-furnished interior not only engages
clients and colleagues but also builds brand credibility in the market. If you are unsure about
what furniture to buy for your office, visit a Sawgrass furniture store for a wide selection of
desks, chairs, workstations, and reception area furnishings.

Furniture consists of movable objects designed to support various human activities, such as
providing comfort, rest, relaxation, work, and storage. These pieces make a house or
building suitable and comfortable for living or working in. Essential types of furniture
include tables, chairs, beds, desks, dressers, and cupboards. Each type of furniture comes in
a wide range of styles. As an interior designer, it is crucial to be knowledgeable about the
different types of furniture available in the market.

9.2 Classification of Furniture:

Furniture can be classified based on various aspects such as function, style, material,
construction, and placement.

9.2.1 By Function:

A. Sitting
B. Relaxing and sleeping
C. Working
D. Learning
E. Storage

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A. Sitting:

Sofas, Chairs, stools, Benches etc.

a. Sofas:

A sofa is a long, upholstered piece of furniture designed to seat two or more people.
Typically, a sofa set includes the main sofa and two matching chairs. There are various
designs available, with some common variations:

Figure 9.1: Sofa

● Chesterfield: An overstuffed sofa with upholstered ends.

● Couch: A sofa with a low back and one raised end.
● Davenport: A sofa that can be converted into a bed.
● Loveseat: A small sofa designed for two people.
● Settee: A long, light seat with a back, sometimes with arms.
● Settle: An all-wood settee, sometimes cushioned for added comfort.

b. Chairs:

The chair is the simplest form of seating furniture, designed to allow one person to sit. It
typically has a back, legs, and a platform for sitting, often padded with cushions made from
various fabrics. There are many types of chairs, each tailored to different activities and
varying in size, shape, materials, and usage. Chairs are used for work, study, relaxation,
dining, and more. Examples include:

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● Lift chair
● Chaise longue
● Ottoman
● Recliner
● Stool
● Benches

Lift Chair:

A lift chair is a type of recliner that features a powered lifting mechanism, which pushes the
entire chair up from its base to assist the user in standing up easily. Lift chairs are
particularly useful for individuals with mobility issues or those recovering from surgery.
They come in various styles, including two-position, three-position, and infinite-position,
providing a range of reclining and lifting options.

Chaise Longue:

A chaise longue, also known as a chaise lounge, is an upholstered seat designed for
reclining, with an elongated seat that supports the legs. It typically has a backrest at one end
and is used for relaxation or lounging. Originating from France, the chaise longue combines
the comfort of a sofa with the luxury of a bed, making it ideal for reading, napping, or simply
lounging.

Figure 9.2: Chaise Longue

Ottoman:

An ottoman is a versatile piece of furniture that serves multiple purposes. It is usually a

padded, upholstered seat without a back or arms, often used as a footrest or additional
seating. Some ottomans have hidden storage compartments, making them functional as well
as comfortable. Ottomans can be standalone pieces or part of a sofa set.

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Figure 9.3: Different types of Ottomans

Different types of Ottomans:

Recliner:

A recliner is a chair that can recline backward, typically featuring a footrest that extends
when the backrest reclines. Recliners are designed for maximum comfort, offering
adjustable positions for sitting and lying down. They come in various styles, such as two-
position recliners, rocker recliners, and power recliners, each providing different levels of
recline and additional features like massaging or heating functions.

Figure 9.4: Recliner

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c. Stool:

A stool is a simple, backless seat, often with three or four legs. Stools come in various
heights and are commonly used in places where quick, casual seating is needed, such as at
a kitchen counter, bar, or workbench. They can be made from wood, metal, plastic, or a
combination of materials. Some stools are adjustable in height and may include a footrest
for added comfort.

d. Benches:

Benches are long seats designed to accommodate multiple people. They can be found in a
variety of settings, both indoors and outdoors, and are typically made of wood, metal, or
stone. Benches can come with or without backrests and armrests. Indoors, they are
commonly used in dining areas, entryways, and waiting rooms, while outdoor benches are
often seen in parks, gardens, and public spaces. Benches are appreciated for their durability
and ability to provide ample seating in a compact space.

B. Relaxing and Sleeping:

a. Bed, Headboards:

These pieces of furniture not only offer continuous comfort and support for the body when
reclining, but also provide adequate support when sitting. Examples of such furniture
include beds, couches, mattresses, sofa beds, sofas, and sectional sofas.

b. Beds:

The primary function of a bed is to alleviate physical strain and provide a cozy sleeping
area. Typically, a bed comprises a sturdy wooden or metal frame paired with a resilient
mattress. Additional features may include a headboard with integrated night lights and a
footboard. Unconventional variations in bed design may include round or rotating beds.

Headboards - A headboard is a panel or piece of furniture that attaches to the head of a bed
frame, typically positioned against the wall. It serves multiple purposes, including providing
support for pillows and bedding, offering a comfortable surface to lean against while sitting
up in bed, enhancing the aesthetic appeal of the bedroom, and sometimes providing
additional storage or functionality.

C. Working:

furniture for working, like tables, desks, and reception bays, is geared towards enhancing
productivity and comfort. These pieces are meticulously designed to meet various
functional needs, with tables serving as versatile surfaces for different tasks, from dining to
gaming, and desks providing dedicated spaces for focused work or study. Each type of table
serves specific functions, with dining tables accommodating meals and adjustable
dimensions to cater to different users.

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Coffee tables serve as focal points in living rooms, while end tables offer convenient
surfaces within arm's reach of seating areas. Specialized tables like card or games tables
fulfill niche purposes, such as card playing.

a. Tables:

Tables are essential pieces of furniture characterized by a flat or slanted surface supported
by one or more legs. They serve a multitude of purposes, from facilitating work and study
to enhancing home aesthetics. Tables come in various sizes and shapes, tailored to specific
functions and personal preferences. Here’s a detailed look at different types of tables:

Dining Table:

Function: Used primarily for serving and consuming meals. Features:

● Often designed to accommodate multiple users.

● Can be extendable to adjust the length and area as needed.
● Typically placed in dining rooms or kitchen areas.

Figure 9.5: Dining Table

Coffee Table:

Function: Used in living rooms to hold accessories such as books, magazines, flowers, and
remote controls. Features:

● Low height, usually around 20 inches.

● Often placed in front of a sofa or seating arrangement.
● Can sometimes double as a dining table for casual meals.

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Figure 9.6: Center Coffee Table

End Table:

Function: Small tables placed next to chairs or sofas to provide a convenient surface.
Features:

● Also known as side tables or teapoys.

● Typically positioned at the end of sofas or chairs.
● Used to hold lamps, drinks, books, or decorative items.

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Figure 9.7: Side Table/ End Table

Study Table:

Function: Dedicated space for studying or working. Features:

● Slightly lower than a dining table.

● Generally rectangular in shape.
● Writing surfaces often have a dull finish to reduce glare and are made of durable
materials.
● Folding variants are available for space-saving needs.

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Figure 9.8: Dressing Table

Dressing Table:

Function: Used for grooming and storing personal care items. Features:

● Equipped with a mirror.

● Includes drawers or compartments for storing cosmetics, jewelry, and grooming tools.
● Often found in bedrooms or dressing rooms.

Buffet Table:

Function: Used to hold and serve food during gatherings. Features:

● Provides space for people to serve themselves.

● Often features storage options like drawers or cabinets for utensils and serving ware.
● Typically placed in dining rooms or near dining areas.

Game Table:

Function: Specialized table for playing games such as cards. Features:

● Lower than a standard dining table, around 2 feet in height.

● Sometimes includes built-in features like chip holders or felt surfaces for card games.
● Not commonly found in every home but essential for game enthusiasts.

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Center Table:

Function: Often used as a focal point in a living room. Features:

● Placed at the center of seating arrangements.

● Used to hold decorative items, magazines, or drinks.
● Can vary greatly in design, from simple to elaborate.

D. Storage - Cabinets, Wardrobes, Dressers, Bookcases:

Storage furniture encompasses a wide array of pieces designed to organize and store various
items. This category includes wardrobes or cabinets, bookcases, shelves, dressers, chests of
drawers, containers, dressing tables, and library bookcases. These items come in numerous
forms and sizes tailored to the type, shape, and size of the items being stored.

a. Types of Storage Furniture:

• Chest of Drawers: A chest of drawers consists of multiple horizontal compartments

that slide out without lids. It is highly versatile and can be placed in any room to store
various items.
• Dresser: A dresser typically features shelves and drawers designed to store dishes,
cutlery, and table linens. It combines open shelving with enclosed storage for kitchen
and dining items.
• Bookcases: Bookcases are designed to hold books and can have adjustable shelves to
accommodate books of various sizes. They can be either open or closed, built-in or free-
standing, and are suitable for almost any room.
• Closet: Closets are enclosed spaces primarily used for hanging and storing clothes,
though they can also be used for general storage.
• Cupboard: Cupboards can be open-shelved or closed and are often used to display
plates, cups, and saucers. Some cupboards include drawers for additional storage.
Overhead cupboards, placed near the ceiling, are used for storing items that are rarely
needed.
• Wall Unit: Wall units serve dual purposes as room dividers and storage solutions.

Figure 9.9: Closet and Wall Unit

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Figure 9.10: Bookshelf

They can be customized to fit specific storage needs while dividing spaces efficiency.

b. Types of Office Storage:

In modern workplaces, the functionality and design of office storage furniture significantly
impact productivity. Ergonomic modular furniture has become increasingly popular due to
its flexibility and comfort, which are crucial for enhancing worker performance.

Types of Office Storage:

• Open File Shelves: These shelves allow easy access to files and documents, keeping
them organized and visible.
• Mobile Shelves: Mobile shelves can be moved as needed, providing flexible storage
solutions for dynamic office environments.
• Rotary Cabinets: Rotary cabinets offer high-density storage by rotating to reveal
additional storage space, ideal for maximizing limited office areas.
• Pull-Out Shelves: Pull-out shelves provide convenient access to stored items, making
it easy to retrieve and store documents and supplies.

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9.2.2 By Style:

● Traditional: Ornate, classic designs with rich wood and upholstery.

● Modern: Sleek, minimalist designs with clean lines and neutral colors.
● Contemporary: Current trends, often blending modern and traditional elements.
● Rustic: Natural materials, distressed finishes, and earthy tones.
● Industrial: Metal and wood combination with a raw, unfinished look.
● Mid-Century Modern: Simple, functional designs from the mid-20th century.
● Scandinavian: Minimalist, functional, and often featuring light woods and white
surfaces.

Difference between traditional, contemporary and modern furniture:

A comparative table highlighting the differences between traditional, contemporary, and

modern furniture:

Table 9.1: Difference between traditional, contemporary and modern furniture:

Traditional Contemporary
Feature Furniture Furniture Modern Furniture

Ornate, intricate Clean lines, smooth Clean lines, geometric

Design
details, carvings, and surfaces, minimal shapes, functional
Elements
embellishments ornamentation forms

High-quality woods Mix of natural and Industrial materials

Materials (mahogany, cherry, synthetic materials (steel, glass, molded
oak) (glass, metal, wood) plastic, wood)

Simple,
Rich fabrics (velvet, Neutral fabrics with
monochromatic
Upholstery brocade, damask), bold accents, smooth
fabrics, leather,
patterns textures
synthetic materials

Polished, glossy Smooth, polished

Matte or glossy, easy-
Finish finishes enhancing surfaces highlighting
to-maintain finishes
wood grain material characteristics

Deep, warm colors Neutral colors (white, Neutral colors (black,

Color
(burgundy, gold, dark black, grey, beige) white, grey) with
Palette
green) with pops of color primary color accents

20th-century
18th-19th century Current trends,
Historical movements (Bauhaus,
European styles blending various
Influence De Stijl,
(Victorian, Georgian) design philosophies
Scandinavian)

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Traditional Contemporary
Feature Furniture Furniture Modern Furniture

Classic, luxurious, Adaptable, versatile, Minimalist, functional,

Aesthetic
formal trend-responsive simplicity-focused

Wingback chairs, Sectional sofas, Eames lounge chair,

Examples
Chesterfield sofas, armless chairs, glass- Barcelona chair, tulip
of Pieces
pedestal tables topped tables tables

Early to mid-20th
Cultural Classical art and Reflects current
century modernist
Influence architecture cultural trends
philosophies

Rich, dark wood Chrome, stainless

Common Brushed metal,
stains, polished brass steel, polished or
Finishes lacquered wood, glass
hardware matte finishes

Formal living rooms, Versatile settings, Mid-century homes,

Typical
traditional dining urban apartments, modernist apartments,
Settings
rooms, grand libraries modern homes minimalist spaces

This table provides a clear comparison of the key characteristics and differences between
traditional, contemporary, and modern furniture styles, helping to understand their unique
attributes and how they can be used in various settings.

9.2.3 By Material:

● Wood: Hardwood (oak, walnut, mahogany) and softwood (pine, cedar).

● Metal: Steel, aluminum, wrought iron.
● Plastic: Molded chairs, synthetic materials.
● Glass: Tabletops, shelving.
● Upholstery: Fabric, leather, faux leather.
● Rattan/Wicker: Natural or synthetic woven materials.

9.2.4 By Construction:

● Modular: Furniture that can be customized and reconfigured.

● Flat-pack: Ready-to-assemble furniture often sold by stores like IKEA.
● Custom-made: Tailored to specific needs and dimensions.
● Antique: Items that are over 100 years old and often collectible.

9.2.5 By Placement:

Furniture is categorized based on its use and location into three main groups: Home
Furniture, Office and Institutional Furniture, and Transport Furniture.

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A. Home Furniture:

This category includes furniture used in residential settings, such as bedrooms, living rooms,
study rooms, and dining rooms, intended for personal use. Home furniture is generally
smaller than office furniture and comes in a wide variety of designs and styles to match
different home aesthetics. It should meet the needs of each family member, enabling
activities like relaxation, sleep, work, learning, and dining while providing ample storage
space.

B. Office and Institutional Furniture:

Designed for commercial and public buildings, this category includes furniture used in
offices and business establishments such as restaurants and retail stores. Examples include
desks, filing cabinets, storage units, and computer tables. Institutional furniture is found in
public buildings, hospitals, hotels, motels, and theaters, including semi-reclining seats in
movie theaters and adjustable-height beds in hospitals. This type of furniture tends to be
more utilitarian and less decorative. Office furniture must cater to the specific needs of
various users, ensuring suitability for their tasks. School and office furniture should be
ergonomically designed to fit the users’ body dimensions. Hospital furniture should
facilitate recovery and minimize the negative effects of prolonged bed rest. Furniture in
waiting areas must be durable, functional, and suitable for the specific travel modes of the
people using them.

C. Transport Furniture:

This includes furniture used in various modes of transportation such as ships, trains, aircraft,
and cars. The design and manufacturing requirements for vehicular furniture vary
depending on the mode of transport. Regardless of whether it is for a train, car, bus, ship,
or airplane, transport furniture must be made from high-quality materials, have sturdy
construction, and ensure the safety of passengers.

9.2.6 By Durability:

● Heavy-duty: Built to withstand heavy use and weight.

● Lightweight: Easy to move and often portable.
● Temporary: Designed for short-term use, such as event furniture.

9.2.7 By Origin:

● Handcrafted: Made by artisans, often unique and high-quality.

● Mass-produced: Manufactured in large quantities, often more affordable.
● Imported: Made in a different country, can influence style and material.

These classifications help in understanding the diverse range of furniture available and in
making informed decisions based on specific needs and preferences.

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9.3 Important of Furniture in Our Life:

Furniture plays a crucial role in our daily lives, impacting not only the functionality and
aesthetic appeal of our spaces but also our comfort, productivity, and well-being.

The importance of furniture in various aspects of our lives:

A. Functionality and Utility:

• Support and Comfort: Furniture such as chairs, sofas, and beds provide the necessary
support and comfort for sitting, lounging, and sleeping. Ergonomically designed
furniture can prevent discomfort and health issues related to posture.
• Organization and Storage: Cabinets, wardrobes, dressers, and shelves help organize and
store belongings, keeping spaces tidy and clutter-free. This is essential for efficient
living and working environments.
• Workspace Efficiency: Desks, office chairs, and filing cabinets facilitate productive
work environments, whether at home or in an office. Proper workspace furniture can
enhance focus and efficiency.

B. Aesthetic and Style:

• Interior Design: Furniture significantly contributes to the aesthetic appeal and style of
a space. It helps define the theme and character of a room, reflecting personal tastes and
preferences.
• Ambiance and Atmosphere: The choice of furniture affects the ambiance of a space,
making it cozy, formal, modern, or traditional. This impacts how occupants and visitors
feel in the space.

C. Health and Well-being:

• Physical Health: Ergonomically designed furniture supports good posture and reduces
the risk of musculoskeletal issues. For example, adjustable office chairs and desks help
maintain proper body alignment.
• Mental Health: A well-furnished, organized, and aesthetically pleasing environment can
reduce stress and enhance mental well-being. Comfortable and inviting furniture can
create a relaxing atmosphere.

D. Social and Cultural Importance:

• Social Interaction: Furniture facilitates social interactions. Dining tables, sofas, and
chairs provide spaces for family gatherings, entertaining guests, and hosting meetings.
• Cultural Expression: Furniture often reflects cultural heritage and traditions. Antique
and handcrafted pieces can showcase cultural artistry and craftsmanship.

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E. Economic and Environmental Impact:

• Economic Value: Quality furniture can be a significant investment, adding value to a

home or office. Well-maintained furniture can appreciate over time, especially antique
or designer pieces.
• Sustainability: Choosing sustainable furniture made from eco-friendly materials and
practices supports environmental conservation. Durable furniture reduces the need for
frequent replacements, minimizing waste.

F. Adaptability and Flexibility:

• Versatility: Multi-functional furniture, such as sofa beds and modular units, offers
flexibility, especially in small living spaces. This adaptability is essential for
maximizing space efficiency.
• Mobility: Lightweight and portable furniture enhances the flexibility to rearrange
spaces according to needs, which is beneficial for both residential and commercial
settings.

G. Personal Expression:

• Customization: Custom-made furniture allows individuals to express their personality

and preferences through unique designs, materials, and finishes.
• Identity and Lifestyle: The furniture choices people make often reflect their lifestyle,
values, and identity, contributing to a sense of belonging and comfort in their
environment.

H. Educational and Institutional Role:

• Learning Environments: In educational institutions, appropriate furniture like desks,

chairs, and storage units is essential for creating conducive learning environments.
Comfortable and functional furniture supports student concentration and engagement.
• Healthcare: In healthcare settings, specialized furniture such as adjustable beds,
ergonomic chairs, and accessible storage solutions are crucial for patient care and staff
efficiency.

Furniture is integral to our lives, influencing our comfort, health, productivity, and the
overall quality of our living and working environments. It serves practical needs, enhances
aesthetics, and reflects personal and cultural values.

9.4 Care and Maintenance of Different Types of Furniture:

Proper care and maintenance of furniture are essential to prolong its life, maintain its
appearance, and ensure its functionality. Here’s a detailed guide on how to care for different
types of furniture based on their material and usage:

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A. Wooden Furniture:

Care:

● Dust Regularly: Use a soft, dry cloth or microfiber duster to remove dust.
● Clean Gently: Wipe with a damp cloth and mild soap, then dry immediately to prevent
water damage.
● Polish: Use furniture polish or wax to maintain the finish, but not too frequently to avoid
buildup.

Maintenance:

● Avoid Direct Sunlight: Prolonged exposure can cause fading and warping.
● Control Humidity: Extreme humidity changes can cause wood to expand or contract,
leading to cracks.
● Protect Surfaces: Use coasters, placemats, and tablecloths to prevent scratches and heat
damage.
● Repair Scratches: Minor scratches can be treated with a wood repair kit or touch-up
marker.

B. Upholstered Furniture:

Care:

● Vacuum Regularly: Use an upholstery attachment to remove dust and debris.

● Rotate Cushions: Rotate and flip cushions regularly to distribute wear evenly.
● Spot Clean: Address spills immediately with a clean cloth and mild detergent. Avoid
soaking the fabric.

Maintenance:

● Professional Cleaning: Consider professional cleaning annually or as needed to

maintain appearance.
● Protect from Sunlight: Fabric can fade when exposed to direct sunlight over time.
● Avoid Harsh Chemicals: Use cleaning products specifically designed for upholstery.

C. Leather Furniture:

Care:

● Dust and Wipe Down: Use a dry cloth for regular dusting and a damp cloth for cleaning.
● Condition: Apply leather conditioner every 6-12 months to keep the leather supple and
prevent cracking.

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Maintenance:

● Avoid Direct Sunlight and Heat: Prolonged exposure can cause fading and drying out.
● Clean Spills Immediately: Blot spills with a dry cloth to prevent staining.
● Avoid Sharp Objects: Prevent scratches and punctures by keeping sharp objects away.

D. Metal Furniture:

Care:
● Dust Regularly: Use a soft cloth to dust off the surface.
● Clean: Wipe with a damp cloth and mild soap, then dry thoroughly to prevent rust.
Maintenance:
● Prevent Rust: For outdoor metal furniture, apply a protective coating or paint to prevent
rust. Touch up any scratches immediately.
● Lubricate Moving Parts: Use a silicone-based lubricant on joints and hinges to keep
them functioning smoothly.

5. Glass Furniture:

Care:

● Dust: Use a microfiber cloth to remove dust and prevent scratches.

● Clean: Use a glass cleaner and a soft cloth to clean the surface. Avoid abrasive cleaners
that can scratch the glass.

Maintenance:

● Protect from Impact: Avoid placing heavy objects or slamming items on glass surfaces
to prevent cracks or chips.
● Use Mats and Coasters: Prevent scratches and heat damage by using protective mats
and coasters.

E. Rattan/Wicker Furniture:

Care:

● Dust: Use a soft brush or vacuum with a brush attachment to remove dust.
● Clean: Wipe with a damp cloth and mild soap solution. Rinse and dry thoroughly.

Maintenance:

● Avoid Excessive Moisture: Prolonged exposure to moisture can cause rattan to swell
and lose its shape.

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● Protect from Sunlight: Excessive sun exposure can dry out and weaken the material.
● Reapply Finish: Periodically apply a protective finish to maintain the appearance and
durability.

F. Plastic Furniture:

Care:

● Dust and Clean: Wipe with a damp cloth and mild detergent.
● Avoid Abrasive Cleaners: Use non-abrasive cleaners to prevent scratching.

Maintenance:

● Protect from Extreme Temperatures: Avoid placing plastic furniture in areas with
extreme heat or cold, which can cause it to warp or become brittle.
● Store Properly: When not in use, store plastic furniture in a cool, dry place to extend
its life.

G. Outdoor Furniture:

Care:

● Clean Regularly: Use appropriate cleaners for the material (e.g., soap and water for
plastic, mild detergent for metal).
● Cover When Not in Use: Use furniture covers to protect from the elements.

Maintenance:

● Treat and Seal: For wood and metal furniture, apply sealant or protective coatings to
prevent weather damage.
● Store Indoors: During harsh weather conditions, store outdoor furniture indoors or in a
shed.

General Tips:

● Follow Manufacturer’s Instructions: Always refer to the care instructions provided by

the manufacturer.
● Use Appropriate Cleaning Products: Ensure that the cleaning products used are
suitable for the specific material.
● Regular Inspection: Periodically inspect furniture for any signs of wear and damage,
and address issues promptly.

Proper care and maintenance of furniture not only preserve its appearance and functionality
but also extend its lifespan, making it a worthwhile investment.

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9.5 Factors to Be Considered in Selection and Arrangement of Furniture:

A comprehensive table outlining the factors to be considered in the selection and

arrangement of furniture:

Table 9.2: Selection And Arrangement of Furniture

Factor Description Considerations

Functionality The primary purpose and use of - Ensure the furniture meets the
the furniture piece. specific needs (e.g., seating, storage).
- Consider multi-functional furniture
for small spaces.
Space and Size The available space and the - Measure the room dimensions
dimensions of the furniture. accurately.
- Ensure furniture size is proportional
to the space.
Comfort The level of comfort provided, - Test for ergonomics and support.
especially for seating and beds. - Consider adjustable options for
personalized comfort.
Style and The design and visual appeal of - Match the furniture style with the
Aesthetics the furniture in relation to the room's decor theme.
overall decor theme. - Consider timeless designs for long-
term use.
Material and The materials used and the - Choose materials that suit the
Durability furniture's ability to withstand intended use and traffic level.
wear and tear. - Opt for high-quality, durable
materials.
Budget The financial cost and - Set a budget and stick to it.
affordability of the furniture. - Look for value-for-money options
without compromising quality.
Maintenance and The ease of cleaning and - Consider materials that are easy to
Care maintaining the furniture. clean and maintain.
- Understand the care requirements of
each piece.
Flexibility and The ability to rearrange and - Opt for modular or easily movable
Adaptability repurpose furniture to adapt to furniture. - Consider future needs and
changing needs. flexibility.
Safety Ensuring the furniture is safe, - Check for stability and sturdiness. -
especially in homes with Avoid sharp edges and ensure
children or elderly individuals. furniture is non-toxic.
Traffic Flow and The arrangement should allow - Plan the layout to facilitate smooth
Layout easy movement and access traffic flow.
within the room. - Avoid overcrowding the space.
Lighting The impact of natural and - Position furniture to maximize
artificial lighting on the natural light.

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Factor Description Considerations

placement and material of the - Consider how different materials
furniture. reflect or absorb light.
Color and The harmony of colors and - Ensure the furniture color
Texture textures within the room. complements the room's color
scheme.
- Mix and match textures for visual
interest.
Personal The individual tastes and - Choose pieces that reflect personal
Preference preferences of the user. style and comfort.
- Consider how furniture fits with
lifestyle and habits.
Environmental The sustainability and eco- - Opt for eco-friendly materials and
Impact friendliness of the furniture. sustainable manufacturing practices.
- Consider the longevity and
recyclability of the furniture.

This table outlines the key factors to consider when selecting and arranging furniture,
ensuring that choices are practical, aesthetically pleasing, and aligned with personal and
environmental values.

9.6 Reference:

1. https://ebooks.inflibnet.ac.in/hsp02/chapter/furniture-styles-traditional-contemporary-
and-modern-furniture/
2. https://www.researchandmarkets.com/reports/5937451/furniture-home-furnishing-
store-market-share
3. https://www.britannica.com/technology/furniture
4. https://www.grandviewresearch.com/industry-analysis/furniture-market
5. https://avantifurniture.net/importance-of-furniture-in-our-life/
6. https://www.furniturebank.org/furnishing_home/
7. https://www.slideshare.net/slideshow/furniture-and-furnishings/146590760
8. https://www.sophiahome.com/blog/importance-of-furniture-in-our-life/

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