When shopping for furniture, knowing which brands to trust can save you time and money. If you're looking for furniture brands that start with B, you're in luck—some of the most respected names in the industry begin with this letter. Whether you need a new sofa, dining table, or bedroom set, this guide covers top brands, what to look for, and common pitfalls to avoid.
Bassett Furniture: Customizable and American-Made
Bassett Furniture has been a staple in American homes since 1902. They are known for their custom-order program, allowing you to choose fabrics, finishes, and configurations. Most pieces are made in Virginia, which means good quality control and support for local manufacturing. What to look for: Check the frame construction—hardwood frames are standard, but ask about joinery. Dovetail joints in drawers signal durability. Common mistake: Assuming all Bassett pieces are solid wood. Many use veneers over engineered wood, which is fine but not as repairable. Pro tip: Visit a Bassett Design Center to see fabric samples in person, as colors on screens can be misleading.
Bernhardt Furniture: Elegant Designs with Solid Construction
Bernhardt is a family-owned brand known for its upscale, traditional, and transitional styles. Their sofas often feature eight-way hand-tied springs, a hallmark of high-end seating. Buying parameter: Check the cushion core—high-resiliency foam wrapped in down is a good balance of comfort and shape retention. Avoid this: Don't buy Bernhardt without checking the return policy; some retailers charge restocking fees. Real advice: If you love a Bernhardt sofa but it's out of budget, look for floor models or seasonal sales at authorized dealers.
Broyhill: Affordable Traditional Furniture
Broyhill offers classic, traditional designs at mid-range prices. Their collections often include matching bedroom, dining, and living room pieces, making it easy to furnish a whole room. What to check: Drawer glides—metal ball-bearing glides are better than wood-on-wood for smooth operation. Pitfall: Some Broyhill pieces use laminated particleboard for case goods, which can warp in humid climates. Step-by-step: Before buying, lift a drawer to see if it's dovetailed or just stapled. Stapled joints are less durable.
Barker and Stonehouse: British Craftsmanship with a Modern Twist
While based in the UK, Barker and Stonehouse ships to the US and offers unique, contemporary designs. Their sofas are known for deep seats and high-density foam cushions. Parameter: Look for the fire retardant label—US standards differ from UK. Mistake: Assuming delivery is fast. International shipping can take 8-12 weeks, so plan ahead. Tip: Order fabric swatches first; the cost is often refundable with purchase.
Blu Dot: Modern and Minimalist for Small Spaces
Blu Dot is an American brand specializing in compact, modern furniture perfect for apartments or condos. Their designs are functional and often feature hidden storage. What to avoid: Don't expect heavy-duty construction; these are designed for light residential use. Buying guide: Measure your doorways and elevators—some Blu Dot pieces come in large boxes that may not fit tight spaces. Real tip: Sign up for their newsletter to get early access to sales, as they rarely discount.
FAQ
Q: How do I choose between Bassett and Broyhill?
A: Bassett offers more customization and is generally higher quality. Broyhill is more budget-friendly and better for matching sets.
Q: Are Bernhardt sofas worth the price?
A: Yes, if you value handcrafted details and solid construction. They often last 15+ years with proper care.
Q: Where can I buy these brands?
A: Bassett and Bernhardt are sold through their own stores and independent retailers. Broyhill and Blu Dot are available online and at select furniture chains.
Final Recommendations
Start your search by identifying your style and budget. For custom pieces, go with Bassett. For luxury, choose Bernhardt. For traditional sets on a budget, Broyhill works well. Always read the fine print on warranties and return policies. Visit showrooms to test comfort and see finishes in person. Avoid impulse buys—measure your space and check delivery times. By focusing on construction details like joinery, spring systems, and cushion fill, you'll find a piece that looks great and lasts.