Shopping for furniture can be overwhelming, especially when you're not sure what to look for or how to avoid common pitfalls. If you're planning a visit to Ashley Furniture on Gunbarrel Road in Chattanooga, TN, this guide will help you navigate the store, choose the right pieces, and get the best value for your money. From understanding the store layout to knowing which items are worth the investment, we've got you covered.
Store Layout and Departments
The Ashley Furniture on Gunbarrel Rd is a spacious showroom organized into distinct sections: living room, bedroom, dining room, home office, and accessories. The living room area features sofas, sectionals, recliners, and coffee tables. The bedroom section displays beds, dressers, nightstands, and mirrors. The dining area includes tables, chairs, and buffets. There's also a dedicated clearance section near the back where you can find discounted floor models and overstock items. Be sure to check the accessories aisle for lamps, rugs, and wall decor to complete your look. The store is well-lit and easy to navigate, but it's a good idea to start with a specific room in mind to avoid getting overwhelmed.
Best-Selling Items and What to Look For
Ashley Furniture offers a wide range of styles from traditional to contemporary. Some of the best-selling items at this location include the Benchcraft reclining sofas (known for comfort and durability), the Signature Design by Ashley bedroom sets (like the Bolton collection with a rustic look), and the Ashley dining tables with extension leaves for extra seating. When shopping, pay attention to the material: solid wood frames are more durable than particle board. Also, check the cushion density for sofas—higher density means longer life. For sectionals, ensure the configuration fits your room dimensions; ask for a floor plan if needed. Avoid impulse buys on decorative pillows and throws—they are often overpriced compared to home decor stores.
Financing Options and Discounts
Ashley Furniture offers several financing options through their store credit card, including deferred interest promotions (e.g., 12 months no interest if paid in full). Be cautious: if you don't pay off the balance within the promo period, you'll be charged retroactive interest from the purchase date. Also, look for seasonal sales like Memorial Day, Labor Day, and Black Friday. Sign up for their email newsletter to receive a 10-15% off coupon for your first purchase. Additionally, check the clearance section for floor models—they often have significant discounts (up to 40% off) but may have minor wear. Always ask if there are any unadvertised specials or open-box discounts. Avoid paying full price for accessories like lamps and rugs—these go on sale frequently.
Common Mistakes First-Time Buyers Make
One of the biggest mistakes is not measuring your space before shopping. Take measurements of doorways, hallways, and the room itself to ensure the furniture can fit and be delivered. Another error is focusing solely on aesthetics over comfort. Always test sit on sofas and chairs for at least 10 minutes. Also, don't ignore the fabric type: if you have pets or kids, choose performance fabrics like microfiber or leather that are easy to clean. Many buyers overlook the delivery fee and assembly costs—ask upfront about these charges. Finally, avoid buying a full set without seeing how each piece looks together; mix and match if needed. Remember, you can negotiate on price, especially for floor models or when buying multiple items.
Real Shopping Advice from Locals
Regular shoppers at this Gunbarrel Rd location recommend visiting on weekdays (Tuesday to Thursday) when the store is less crowded and sales associates have more time to assist. Bring photos of your room and any paint swatches to compare colors. If you're unsure about a piece, ask if you can take a sample of the fabric home. Also, consider the delivery timeline—standard delivery can take 1-3 weeks, but some items are available for same-day pickup. For large purchases, ask about white-glove delivery (which includes setup and packaging removal). Many customers suggest checking online reviews for specific items before buying, as some pieces may have issues with assembly or durability. Lastly, join the Ashley Furniture rewards program for birthday discounts and early access to sales.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Does Ashley Furniture on Gunbarrel Rd have a clearance section?
A: Yes, there is a clearance area near the back of the store with discounted floor models and overstock items.
Q: Can I negotiate prices at Ashley Furniture?
A: While prices are generally fixed, you can sometimes get a discount on floor models or when purchasing multiple items. It never hurts to ask.
Q: How long does delivery take?
A: Standard delivery usually takes 1-3 weeks, but some items are available for immediate pickup. Ask for specific timelines at the store.
Q: What is the return policy?
A: Ashley Furniture has a 30-day return policy for unopened items. Custom orders and clearance items are final sale. Check the policy details before purchase.
Visiting Ashley Furniture on Gunbarrel Rd can be a great experience if you go prepared. Measure your space, set a budget, and don't be afraid to ask questions. By following these tips, you'll find quality pieces that fit your home and lifestyle without overspending. Happy furniture hunting!