Lloyd’s Woodworking · Hudson, Massachusetts
By Lloyd’s Woodworking Inc.
Old Furniture vs. New Furniture: Which Is Better?
DIRECT ANSWER:
Neither old nor new furniture is automatically better. Excellent and poor furniture exists from many periods. The useful comparison is between specific pieces: construction, materials, condition, function, repairability, design, fit and total replacement cost.
"THEY DON'T MAKE FURNITURE LIKE THEY USED TO."
Sometimes that's true.
Sometimes it isn't.
The smarter question is:
"HOW WAS THIS PIECE ACTUALLY MADE?"
WHAT OLDER FURNITURE MAY OFFER
Depending on the piece:
Established durability
Repairable construction
Materials difficult to find economically today
Distinctive proportions
Craftsmanship
Family history
Architectural compatibility
WHAT NEW FURNITURE MAY OFFER
Depending on the product:
Modern functionality
Immediate availability
Current dimensions
Modern hardware
Contemporary design
Warranty
Lower initial price
DON'T COMPARE ONLY PURCHASE PRICE
If considering replacing an existing piece, compare:
Purchase
Delivery
Assembly
Expected use
Construction
Repairability
How long you expect to keep it
Whether the existing furniture can be restored
OLD FURNITURE CAN HAVE PROBLEMS TOO
Age can bring:
Loose joints
Damage
Failed glue
Water damage
Missing components
Poor previous repairs
Worn finishes
Do not romanticize age.
NEW FURNITURE CAN BE EXCELLENT
Lloyd's does not need to attack new furniture to make the case for restoration.
The right question is whether the furniture you already own deserves another look before replacement.
Frequently asked questions
IS OLD FURNITURE BETTER MADE?
Some is. Evaluate the specific piece.
IS NEW FURNITURE CHEAPER THAN RESTORATION?
Sometimes. Compare complete costs and the quality of what you will own afterward.
IS OLD FURNITURE WORTH KEEPING?
It may be when construction, usefulness, quality or personal significance justify it.
SHOULD I RESTORE OR BUY NEW?
Evaluate both options rather than assuming either answer.