Ashley Store Harahan is a go-to destination for quality furniture in the New Orleans area. Whether you're furnishing a new home or updating a room, this store offers a wide selection of sofas, beds, dining sets, and more. However, navigating the showroom and making the right choices can be overwhelming. This guide breaks down everything you need to know—from practical shopping steps to common pitfalls—so you can leave with pieces you'll love for years.
How to Prepare Before Visiting Ashley Store Harahan
Before you head to the store, take a few measurements and set a budget. Measure the room dimensions, doorways, hallways, and any tight corners to ensure furniture will fit. Consider the room's traffic flow and existing decor. Set a realistic budget that includes delivery fees (often $99-$199) and potential assembly costs. Also, browse the Ashley website to see current promotions, as Harahan store often matches online sales. Create a list of must-have items and prioritize them.
What to Look For When Choosing a Sofa or Couch
Sofas are the centerpiece of most living rooms. Test the seat depth—standard is 21-22 inches, but deeper options (24 inches) are better for lounging. Check the frame: hardwood (oak, maple) is more durable than particleboard. For cushions, high-resilience foam wrapped in fiber offers a balance of comfort and support. Avoid cheap polyester fiberfill that flattens quickly. Ask about fabric durability: look for a high double rub count (over 30,000 for heavy use). Leather is long-lasting but requires maintenance; performance fabrics like microfiber resist stains. At Ashley Harahan, popular lines include Signature Design by Ashley and Benchcraft. Sit on multiple models for at least 5 minutes each to assess comfort.
Picking the Perfect Bed and Mattress
Ashley stores often carry mattress sets from brands like Serta and Tempur-Pedic. Determine your preferred firmness: side sleepers usually need medium-soft, back sleepers medium-firm, and stomach sleepers firm. Test mattresses in-store by lying down for 10-15 minutes. Check the bed frame: solid wood or metal with center supports is essential for queen/king sizes to avoid sagging. Avoid box springs that are just cheap particleboard. Consider adjustable bases if you like reading or watching TV in bed. Ashley Harahan staff can guide you to the right support system. Don't forget to measure your room for nightstands and dressers—allow at least 24 inches of walking space around the bed.
Dining Sets: Size, Material, and Seating Comfort
Measure your dining area to determine the table size. Allow 36-48 inches between the table edge and walls for chair movement. Round tables work best for smaller spaces, while rectangular ones fit larger rooms. Material matters: solid wood (oak, acacia) is durable but heavy; veneers can chip. For chairs, test the seat height (18 inches is standard) and cushion density. Avoid chairs with thin legs or unstable bases. At Ashley Harahan, look for sets with leaves for flexibility. Check the warranty—most Ashley furniture comes with a 1-year limited warranty, but extended plans are available.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Shopping at Ashley Harahan
Many shoppers overlook delivery timelines. Ask for exact dates and check if the item is in stock or special order (which can take 4-8 weeks). Don't assume all furniture is assembled—some require DIY assembly. Measure your car if you plan to haul items yourself; otherwise, factor in delivery costs. Avoid impulse buying floor models without checking for damage or missing parts. Also, don't skip reading return policies: Ashley typically allows returns within 30 days but charges a 15% restocking fee. Finally, compare prices online—Ashley's own website sometimes has lower prices than the store, so ask for a price match.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Does Ashley Store Harahan offer financing?
A: Yes, they offer financing options through Ashley Advantage or third-party services like Synchrony. Check for promotional 0% APR offers.
Q: Can I return furniture if I don't like it?
A: Yes, within 30 days of delivery, but items must be in original condition. A 15% restocking fee applies, and you pay return shipping.
Q: Does the store price match online?
A: Sometimes. Ask a sales associate to verify. They may match Ashley.com prices but not third-party retailers.
Q: What is the delivery range for Harahan?
A: They deliver to the greater New Orleans area, including Metairie, Kenner, and LaPlace. Additional fees may apply for long distances.
Final Tips for a Successful Furniture Shopping Trip
Visit Ashley Store Harahan during weekdays for a quieter experience. Bring room measurements, a tape measure, and fabric swatches from home. Take photos of your space to compare with showroom items. Ask about scratch-and-dent discounts for minor imperfections. Sign up for the Ashley newsletter to receive exclusive coupons. Lastly, trust your instincts—if a piece doesn't feel right in the store, it won't feel right at home. Happy shopping!