Looking for Bassett Furniture in Chestnut Hill, MA? You're not alone. This Boston suburb is home to a dedicated Bassett Furniture store that offers custom-made pieces, timeless designs, and expert design services. Whether you're furnishing a new home or updating a room, knowing what to expect can save you time, money, and frustration. In this guide, we'll walk you through the store's offerings, how to customize furniture, what to look for in quality, common pitfalls to avoid, and practical steps to make the most of your visit.
What to Expect at Bassett Furniture Chestnut Hill
The Bassett Furniture store in Chestnut Hill is located at the Chestnut Hill Shopping Center, offering a full showroom of living room, bedroom, dining, and home office furniture. Unlike many retailers, Bassett focuses on custom upholstery and case goods—meaning you can choose fabrics, finishes, and configurations. The store also provides free interior design consultations. Expect a relaxed, low-pressure environment where you can browse and get personalized advice. One key advantage: Bassett’s custom pieces are made in the USA, often delivering in 4-6 weeks.
How to Customize Your Furniture: Step-by-Step
Customization is Bassett’s strength. Here’s a simple process to get exactly what you want:
Step 1: Choose a Frame. Start with a sofa, chair, or table style that fits your space. Bassett offers hundreds of frame options, from modern to traditional.
Step 2: Select Fabric or Leather. Browse hundreds of fabric swatches or leather samples. Consider durability: if you have kids or pets, look for high-performance fabrics (e.g., Crypton or Sunbrella).
Step 3: Pick Finish and Details. For wood pieces, choose from various stains and paint colors. For upholstery, decide on cushion firmness, leg style, and trim.
Step 4: Order and Wait. Once ordered, your custom piece is built in Bassett’s Virginia plant. Allow 4-6 weeks for delivery. The Chestnut Hill store will notify you when it arrives.
Key Quality Parameters to Check
Before buying, inspect these details to ensure you’re getting good value:
- Frame Construction: Look for kiln-dried hardwood frames (not particle board). Bassett uses solid hardwood and engineered wood in key areas.
- Suspension: Eight-way hand-tied springs are premium; sinuous wire springs are standard but durable. Ask which your piece uses.
- Cushion Fill: High-resiliency foam with a fiber wrap offers comfort and longevity. Down-blend cushions are softer but require fluffing.
- Joinery: Dovetail joints in drawers and mortise-and-tenon in tables indicate quality. Avoid pieces with glue-only joints.
- Fabric Grade: Bassett grades fabrics from A to F. Higher grades cost more but often have better durability and stain resistance.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Many shoppers make these errors. Don’t let them happen to you:
- Skipping the Design Consultation: The free service can help you avoid costly mistakes in scale, color, and layout. Use it.
- Ignoring Room Measurements: Measure doorways, hallways, and the room itself. Bassett’s custom pieces are built to order, so returns are difficult.
- Choosing Fabric Based Only on Looks: A beautiful white linen sofa may stain easily. Consider your lifestyle first.
- Not Asking About Delivery: Confirm delivery fees, assembly, and old furniture removal. The Chestnut Hill store charges for delivery but offers white-glove service.
- Forgetting About Lead Time: Custom orders take weeks. If you need furniture fast, consider in-stock items or ready-to-ship options.
Real Buying Advice for Chestnut Hill Shoppers
Based on customer experiences and store policies, here’s what you need to know:
- Check for Sales: Bassett frequently runs promotions like 20% off custom orders or no-interest financing. Sign up for their email list before you visit.
- Negotiate on Delivery: Sometimes the store can waive or reduce delivery fees if you ask. Be polite but firm.
- Consider the Protection Plan: For high-traffic pieces, a fabric protection plan may be worth it. Read the fine print—some cover only stains, not wear.
- Visit on Weekdays: The store is quieter, and you’ll get more attention from design consultants.
- Ask About Clearance: Floor models and discontinued items are often marked down significantly. They’re sold as-is, but can be a great deal.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Does Bassett Furniture Chestnut Hill offer financing?
A: Yes, they offer special financing through Bassett’s credit card, including deferred interest options. Check current terms.
Q: Can I return custom furniture?
A: Custom orders are non-returnable. In-stock items may be returned within 30 days with a receipt and in original condition.
Q: How long does delivery take?
A: Custom pieces typically arrive in 4–6 weeks. In-stock items can be delivered within 1–2 weeks.
Q: Do they offer design services at home?
A: Yes, they provide in-home consultations for a fee, which is often waived with a minimum purchase.
Q: Is parking free?
A: Yes, the Chestnut Hill Shopping Center has ample free parking.
Final Thoughts
Bassett Furniture in Chestnut Hill, MA, offers a unique opportunity to get custom, American-made furniture with professional design help. By preparing ahead—measuring your space, understanding customization options, and avoiding common mistakes—you can walk away with pieces you’ll love for years. Take advantage of the free consultation, ask about sales, and don’t hesitate to negotiate. Your dream living room is just a visit away.