Ashley Furniture Laburnum Review: Is This Collection Right for Your Home?

The Ashley Furniture Laburnum collection is a popular choice for those seeking traditional style with a rustic touch. But is it right for you? This guide breaks down the collection's features, quality, and potential drawbacks, so you can make an informed purchase.

What is the Ashley Furniture Laburnum Collection?

The Laburnum collection from Ashley Furniture is a line of bedroom and occasional furniture designed with a warm, distressed finish and classic panel detailing. It typically includes bed frames, dressers, nightstands, and chests. The style leans toward traditional Americana, with dark brown tones and subtle distressing that gives each piece a lived-in look. If you're furnishing a guest room or master bedroom with a cozy, timeless aesthetic, this collection is worth considering.

Quality and Construction: What to Expect

Ashley Furniture is known for offering mid-range furniture, and the Laburnum collection fits that profile. The construction uses engineered wood (MDF and particleboard) with a paper laminate overlay. While not solid wood, this construction keeps costs down and reduces warping in different climates. The drawers feature dovetail joints and side guides, which are decent for the price point. However, the drawer slides are not full-extension, so you can't see the entire drawer at once. For everyday use, this is acceptable, but if you prefer heavy-duty hardware, you might want to upgrade later.

Pros and Cons of the Laburnum Collection

Before buying, weigh these pros and cons:

Pros:

• Classic design that fits many decor styles (farmhouse, traditional, rustic).
• Affordable price point, especially for a full bedroom set.
• Easy assembly with clear instructions and labeled parts.
• Distressed finish hides scratches and wear well.

Cons:

• Not solid wood; engineered wood may not hold up to heavy abuse.
• Drawers are not soft-close; they can slam if not careful.
• Some customers report minor finish inconsistencies or chipping during shipping.
• Limited color options – only one finish available.

Buying Guide: What to Check Before You Purchase

Here are practical steps to ensure you get the best value:

1. Measure your space – The Laburnum bed frame has a tall footboard and headboard, so ensure your room can accommodate the height. For a queen bed, the footprint is about 63.5" x 86.5".
2. Inspect for damage upon delivery – Because the pieces are heavy and shipped in boxes, check for cracks or dents immediately. Ashley has a return policy, but you'll need to report damage within a few days.
3. Test the drawer slides – If you're buying in-store, open and close drawers to see if they stick. Online, read recent reviews about hardware issues.
4. Consider upgrades – If you need more durability, look for pieces with metal drawer guides or solid wood fronts. Laburnum uses wood veneer on some parts, but the core is MDF.
5. Check for assembly difficulty – The bed frame requires two people for assembly due to its weight. If you're not handy, hire a pro or ask for white-glove delivery (extra cost).

Common Mistakes to Avoid

New buyers often make these errors:

• Assuming it's solid wood – Many customers expect solid wood at this price. Read the product description carefully; it's engineered wood with laminate.
• Ignoring weight limits – The dresser top can hold a TV, but check the weight limit (usually around 50 lbs). Overloading can cause sagging.
• Skipping the return policy – Ashley's return window is typically 30 days, but restocking fees may apply. Keep the original packaging until you're sure.
• Not considering assembly time – Set aside 2-3 hours for a dresser or bed frame. If you're short on time, pay for assembly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Laburnum collection durable for everyday use?
Yes, for typical residential use. The laminate surface is scratch-resistant, but avoid dragging heavy items across it.

Can I mix Laburnum pieces with other furniture?
Absolutely. The dark brown finish complements many wood tones, but try to keep similar undertones (warm vs. cool) for a cohesive look.

Does the collection include a mirror?
Some retailers sell a matching mirror separately, but it's not part of the standard set. Check the product listing.

How does Laburnum compare to other Ashley collections?
It's similar in quality to the Devonshire or Wrangler collections but with a more traditional look. If you prefer modern, try the Signature Design by Ashley line.

Final Verdict: Should You Buy It?

The Ashley Furniture Laburnum collection is a solid choice if you want a traditional look on a budget. It's not heirloom quality, but it will serve well for years with proper care. Focus on the pieces you need most (bed and dresser) and avoid buying every accessory unless you love the style. For the price, it's a good value – just manage your expectations regarding materials. If you can, see the finish in person before ordering to ensure it matches your decor.