Christine Schwalm Design

I received a question the other day from a reader who needs to purchase new bedroom furniture.  Like most of us, she has a limited budget, but wanted to get something sturdy for her very large wardrobe.  She's ready to upgrade from Ikea and really wants solid wood.  One last caveat, she'd like to see the pieces in person before buying.  Here's my advice:

Here are a few sites for bedroom furniture.  I really think you'll get the best value at Gothic Cabinet Craft.  They do only solid wood and you can choose your finish.  They have store locations all over so you can see the pieces in person.  The pieces in the showroom will most likely be unfinished wood, but you can get a sense if you'll like it.  You can browse online at www.gothiccabinetcraft.com.

Crate and Barrel also has a more contemporary, less expensive line called cb2 that has a location in Manhattan.  You could look online at their stuff at www.cb2.com

Honestly, places like Ramour and Flanagan should not be considered.  They're overpriced for what they are.  If you do something in a popular finish (like the espresso you currently have), you can easily mix and match among different vendors.   For instance, spend more on a large double dresser and armoire but save on a coordinating bed and night tables.  That sort of thing.  And don't count out craigslist.  I just got 2 really good deals.  The only drawback is that you have to be more patient.  Also, you may want to consider calling places like Room and Board (www.roomandboard.com) or Crate and Barrel (www.crateandbarrel.com) to see if they're selling off their floor models of any pieces.  You could save up to 50%.