[Comparison of the pros and cons of custom-made furniture and ready-made furniture]
Is it better to have custom-made furniture or ready-made furniture?
In Hong Kong, where land is at a premium, homeowners and residents often find themselves torn between custom-made furniture and off-the-shelf furniture. Each has its pros and cons, suiting different needs and budgets. Design House HK offers an in-depth analysis of custom-made furniture versus off-the-shelf furniture, focusing on design freedom, space utilization, quality, price, longevity, flexibility of options, and the purchasing process, to help you make the right decision.
Design freedom and personalization
Custom-made furniture
The greatest benefit of custom furniture is its tailor-made design. Furniture designers will tailor the unit's space, structure, living habits, and aesthetic preferences to create unique pieces. Whether it's an odd-shaped space, ceiling beams, window edges, or angled walls, you can transform them into useful storage. You can customize your ideal furniture, including style, color, material, accessories, and storage features.
Ready-made furniture
Ready-made furniture comes in specific, pre-determined designs and sizes. Despite the countless options available in the market today, finding the perfect match for your unit layout can still be a challenge. Some large chain brands offer a wider range of styles, but they may not be able to accommodate special spaces (such as L-shaped walls or built-in furniture).
Unit space utilization
Custom-made furniture
In Hong Kong, where residential areas are generally small, custom-made furniture can make full use of every inch of space. For example, tall built-in cabinets, floor-to-ceiling bookshelves, under-bed storage boxes and window sill cabinets can all be tailored according to actual needs to make the best use of all space.
Ready-made furniture
The standard sizes of ready-made furniture may not necessarily fit well with walls or ceilings, which can easily lead to wasted corners or the creation of "dead spaces". Sometimes, in order to fit the ready-made sizes, some space or aesthetics have to be sacrificed.
Quality and durability
Custom-made furniture
Custom-made furniture is usually made by professionals, using materials with high transparency. Customers can choose from E0 and E1 plywood, solid wood, etc. The craftsmanship and details (such as seams, joints, and hardware accessories) are strictly controlled, ensuring quality and durability. The warranty period is generally up to one year or more.
Ready-made furniture
Mass-produced furniture is mostly made of medium-density fiberboard, bagasse board, and other artificial boards. The quality varies from brand to brand. They may have less smooth seams, assembly or edges, less durability, and common problems such as uneven cabinet doors or drawers that do not open properly. The warranty period is usually only one month, or not at all.
Price and budget
Custom-made furniture
Custom-made furniture is more expensive than ready-made furniture because it involves multiple processes such as design, measurement, hand-making, and installation. The price fluctuates depending on the size, materials, and design complexity. Although the initial investment is larger, in the long run, its high durability and easy maintenance may not be more expensive than frequently replacing ready-made furniture.
Ready-made furniture
Mass-produced furniture is often more affordable and suitable for those who are short on funds or need a temporary transition or rental, but in the long run, ready-made furniture may be limited by the materials and durability, and may need to be replaced repeatedly.
Purchase process and time
Custom-made furniture
The process for custom-made furniture is also very long: it includes measurement, design, quotation, re-testing, production, transportation, installation, and completion; it usually takes no less than a month. More complex designs require even more time, making it most suitable for families with ample time and an interest in customisation.
Ready-made furniture
Ready-made furniture is ready to move in immediately, and once you've selected your style, you can expect same-day delivery and installation, making it perfect for a quick move-in or short-term stay.
Relocation and reusability
Custom-made furniture
Custom-made furniture is often built-in or fixed in design, which may not fit the new unit layout when moving and has low reusability.
Ready-made furniture
Generally, ready-made furniture can be moved at any time, making it suitable for people who move frequently or rent.
Material selection and environmental protection
Custom-made furniture
You can choose the board material according to your budget and needs, such as plywood, solid wood, medium-density fiberboard and other options. In addition, you can also choose low formaldehyde, green panels and logs.
Ready-made furniture
Most ready-made furniture is made mainly of medium-density fiberboard and bagasse board. A small number of brands have environmental certifications, but the selection is limited.
Frequently Asked Questions and Precautions
When choosing custom furniture, you need to select a professional designer or furniture company, pay attention to the company's reputation, carefully read the quote and design drawings, and consider the materials, finishing services, and warranty period. If you plan to purchase ready-made furniture, at least measure your home's dimensions before purchase to determine whether the ready-made furniture you purchase can be transported and placed. If purchasing online, be sure to check the return policy.
Design House HK's custom-made furniture service
Design House HK offers tailor-made furniture services, with professional interior designers providing comprehensive support throughout the entire process, ensuring every detail is tailored to your needs. This service includes floor plans, furniture diagrams, and 3D renderings, allowing you to clearly preview your new furniture design. All drawings will be modified based on your feedback until you're satisfied. Project managers will strictly monitor progress to ensure it's manageable. Pricing is clear and transparent, and we offer a variety of custom furniture packages. Whether it's a hydraulic bed, wardrobe, bookcase, TV stand, or more, you can customize your furniture to create your ideal home. Feel free to contact us for inquiries.
Click here to learn more about Design House HK's custom furniture services
