A great article re-emerged from Russell Bienenstock in the home
furnishings industry's top publication on the benefits and advantages to buying
leather furniture products. His first in
a two part piece in the New Rochelle, New York-based Furniture World Magazine
made me think-WOW! This blogger shares
some of it here and I must say it was very informative and helps with the
argument on whether or not to use this material in a modern office or living
space:
"...From a consumer standpoint, buying a leather sofa
can seem like a “no-brainer, wrote Bienenstock. "There are no fabric
patterns to choose, simplifying decorating decisions for the design-challenged.
It is also true that quality leather has properties which can make it superior
to many fabrics.
Consider the following...Leather outlasts most fabric
coverings. It has an exceptionally long useful life. It will not tear and is
half again as strong as other upholstery materials -- even along the seam
lines. It is fire resistant and emits no toxic fumes, even when exposed to
intense heat. Modern full grain leather products won’t crack or peel. Quality
leather stretches and retains its shape without sagging. It 'breathes', assumes
body temperature rapidly and is instantaneously comfortable. It resists heat
and sun damage. Leather is a practical material, ideal for busy lifestyles. No
special solvents or cleaners and no lengthy or expensive procedures are
necessary for its care. Leather generally ages well.
On the other hand, depending on how it is used, covers
promoted and sold as leather differ in how long they will last, how easy they
are to clean, in their suppleness and, how effectively they can be repaired.
There are big differences in leather price, quality and wear, yet retail
customers may have trouble evaluating how these differences correlate with
desired benefits. This is not surprising since even retail salespeople who
should have this expertise, may not be conversant with the types of leather,
finishes or products such as leather splits, vinyl and fabric/leather composite
materials.
Although home furnishings industry professionals do not need
to know the fine details of leather production, basic information regarding
hide quality, tanning, dyeing and finishing can help retailers to steer
customers toward making informed purchase decisions."
The article stresses that there is quality to be had across
the entire price point spectrum. Best to
be educated than to make a poor design and material choice. In the end the value will be appreciated by
the owner or end users.
Don't think leather is only for the ultra-rich. Bienenstock remarked that tanning technology,
globalization and composite leather materials are changing the marketplace
making leather furniture more affordable and gaining broad consumer appeal.
For more on how GET, LLC through our friends at Savoy
Contract Furniture and teaming partner American Hotel Register can assist you
with your specific furniture needs-even leather-please check out our website at
www.get-guam.com or give us a call at 671-483-0789 to discuss the best solution
for your facility. All the solutions are
Made in America!!!