On the outside, buying furniture online is a fun experience; picking out items that you like, imagining them in your space, finding ways to express your unique style. At least, it’s supposed to be. But in reality, it can easily turn into a rabbit hole with 50 tabs open on your web browser. You might end up getting a dictionary involved just to see if there is a specific word to describe what you’re looking for.
Thankfully, you don’t have to do that anymore! iNSPIRE Q has created this handy-dandy guide explaining 11 basic furniture terms to know as you shop!
1) Modular
Modular furniture are pieces that are designed to be arranged in more than one way. In other words, their design is flexible, customizable, catering to your space.
For example, you can buy the iNSPIRE Q Modular Stacking Storage Bins in units of 1 bin, 2 bins, or 3 bins. Because of this, you can stack and arrange as many as you would like to fit your needs!
2) Beveled (glass)
Beveled most commonly refers to a type of glass or mirror. The edges of a glass or mirrored surface have angled cuts. This adds subtle visual interest and catches light differently than non-beveled surfaces.
3) Wingback
Wingback is a type of furniture design that has “wings” attached to it, as pictured with the iNSPIRE Q Nailhead Wingback Button Tufted Headboard in Cream White Linen. Upholstered furniture most frequently uses the wingback design because it adds a little extra coziness to it.
4) Cabriole (leg)
Cabriole refers to a type of furniture leg that has two curves. The top of the leg curves outward and the bottom of the leg curves inward, similar to an S shape. This style adds an extra element of grace to the overall piece.
5) Live Edge
Live edge describes the natural edge of wood that's exposed and part of the design of a piece. Most commonly seen with tables, this is a popular style among furniture designers because it gives a natural, authentic look to the overall piece, as opposed to looking pristine and manufactured.
6) Campaign (style)
This one of furniture terms to know has a bit more history attached to it than others! Originally, campaign-styled furniture was made for travel; specifically, military campaigns. While people no longer use the furniture for travel, the style itself has stuck around. It typically involves clean, simple shapes with extra handles and metal accents.
7) Chevron
Chevron describes a type of pattern used in fabric that looks similar to a zig zag. It features stripes of a V or an inverted V.
8) Distressing
Distressing is a type of wood finish (although sometimes used on metal and leather) to purposefully give the appearance that it is aged or antique.
9) Etagere
Etagere describes furniture designed with open shelves. The intent is to use the open shelves to display décor.
10) Inlay
Most commonly used in wood and tables (but not limited to!), an inlay is a design, pattern, or piece of material embedded into the surface. It’s a very subtle way to elevate the look of a piece.
11) Tuxedo
No, we’re not talking about clothing! Tuxedo is a streamlined style of seating where the arms of a sofa or armchair are the same height as the back. It’s a great choice if you’re looking to make a statement in your living room!
And there you have it! These are 11 basic furniture terms to know as you browse your options online. You can close some of those tabs now and enjoy shopping for furniture! We hope this guide has helped you find exactly what you’re looking for.
If you liked this post, then be sure to check out the other two parts of this 3-part Furniture 101 miniseries! Additionally, be sure to read our latest posts, follow us on social media, and subscribe to our YouTube channel for more tips and tricks like this!