Our Edinburgh Furniture Initiative staff are full of top tips! We see a lot of furniture – and we mean a lot!
Inspired by a comment made by designer Anna Campbell-Jones on the first episode of the new Scotland’s Home of the Year 2025 (read our interview with Anna last year), we are highlighting a category of furniture which is often overlooked, and we think you should consider.
It is characterful, well-made and, frankly, be quite cheap relative to other categories! Often dismissed these days and referred to as ‘brown furniture’, these pieces are traditional in style and often made with wood like mahogany, teak and rosewood.
Out of fashion for a while with mid-century pieces taking the limelight, here are three reasons we think you should consider it and some examples of items we have recently had in store!
3 Reasons to Reconsider ‘Brown Furniture’
- Cost-Effective: Currently less fashionable than mid-century items, ‘brown furniture’ can be significantly less expensive.
- Quality Craftsmanship: Far better made than much modern furniture. These pieces were built to last.
- Ornate and Characterful: These pieces add a unique charm to any space. Mix and match with other styles to bring it up to date.
5 Beautiful Recent In-Store Examples
This beautiful example of an art deco style cocktail cabinet sold for only £150.
Solid and ornate this dresser was ripe for upcycling and sold for under £200.
This nest of side tables, stunning bureau and beautiful carved chair had heaps of character.
This vintage bureau is still in stock £375. Generously donated and ready to make working from home a treat!
This extendable table and chairs were priced at a fraction of it’s original cost. A sumptuous example of why ‘brown furniture’ is ready for a comeback!
You could also consider upcycling many of these items! Read our upcycling tips here.
So there you have it! Have we convinced you that ‘brown furniture’ is worth considering? Come and visit us and find your perfect piece.
