I’ve designed a lot – and I mean a lot! – of rooms over the last 20 years. In that time I’ve learned a lot about not just renovations, but furniture. Specifically, how to decorate a room with furniture that will suit the space and stand the test of time.

One of my current favourites is Mobilia’s NICOLAS collection – a suite of products that can be used in the dining room, home office, bedroom, and just about anywhere else you can think of. Here are a few reasons why I’m such a fan.

Style

When it comes to style, I always look for items that can be mixed and matched with others. By that I mean simple, clean lines that can work in both casual and formal settings, and that can fit in with a number of other styles.  The NICOLAS collection fits the bill with its Scandinavian-inspired and minimalist design. While the look on its own is definitely contemporary, its clean silhouette means that it can be mixed and matched with other furniture in your home – be it a mid-century modern sofa, an ornate mirror, or vintage artwork.  

Versatility 

In my opinion, furniture must be both practical and versatile. While ornamental pieces can be fun, it’s those that give me the best long-term bang for my buck that I’m always drawn to.  I particularly like pieces that can accomplish more than one goal. As far as NICOLAS goes, there are a number of elements that make them desirable. For example:

• The sideboard has a significant amount of storage space and includes adjustable shelves so you can fit a wide variety of items.

• The bed has integrated storage drawers underneath to keep extra sheets and blankets out of sight.

•  The dining table comes in a variety of extendable length options to fit both everyday needs, as well as big family gatherings. 

Quality

Last, but definitely not least, is quality. I’m a firm believer that when it comes to furniture you should buy the best quality you can comfortably afford. This doesn’t mean that you should spend just for the sake of spending, but it does mean that you should weigh the cost against how long you believe the piece will last. So take the time to ask about the construction of the items you’re interested in and make sure you’re comfortable that the quality is reflected in the price. Also,  I always consider it a great bonus when I can buy something that’s locally made. The NICOLAS collection is made in Canada which means I’m supporting the Canadian furniture industry.

To see more of the NICOLAS collection visit Mobilia.ca and check out the video below.

What about you? What are your top considerations when choosing furniture?

Photos courtesy of Mobilia and McGillivray Entertainment