Furniture is a collection of items used for supporting human activities such as sitting (stools, chairs and sofas), standing and eating, working, and sleeping (beds and hammocks). Furniture is also a product of design; it may be functional or decorative. It is generally constructed from wood, but can be made of many other materials, including metal and plastic.
Furniture can be embellished in a number of ways, including exploitation of structural principles as a theme, emphasis on the elegance of overall shape through stylization, and the use of carving or turning. Embroidery and other textiles can also be used to decorate furniture. In the case of wooden furniture, coloration is obtained either from the natural color of a particular species of tree, or through staining.
The word “furniture” is derived from the Middle French fourniture, from fournir (“to furnish”). Early furniture was often multifunctional, such as tables that transformed into beds, or trunks that stored clothes and other items. Furniture was also a form of cultural expression, as people collected and kept pieces of value. Each era created its own styles of furniture that reflected the lifestyle and culture of its time.
When it comes to buying furniture for your home, most homeowners typically consider two factors: price and design. However, there are other important factors that you should keep in mind when purchasing furniture, such as quality and longevity. One way to ensure that your furniture lasts as long as possible is to buy high-quality pieces made from durable materials. In addition, it is a good idea to purchase furniture that will complement your existing style, while still being flexible enough to adapt to future changes in taste or style.