Furniture is human-made objects that support activities in the built environment. It can be functional, symbolic, ceremonial, or simply decorative. It is usually made of a durable material such as wood or metal. Furniture may also be upholstered with fabric or leather. The design of furniture can be influenced by culture, fashion and technology. Furniture is generally fixed to a structure, although there are exceptions such as mobile carts and tables.
Historically, most furniture was multifunctional. For example, early trunks for storing clothing or supplies could be used as a seat and transform into a bed. It was also constructed with ornamental features such as fluting (vertical grooves on the sides of a column) or an escutcheon (plate that covers a keyhole).
In addition to aesthetic qualities, it is important to consider durability and functionality when choosing furniture. For example, if you have children or pets, furniture that is designed with stain-resistant fabrics will help ensure longevity.
Lastly, when shopping for furniture it is important to establish a budget before you start. This will prevent you from spending more than you can afford and allow you to focus on the design, quality of materials, and layout of the pieces you are considering.