Article vs West Elm is such a common topic of conversation! I am a decorator and have worked on many a project that involved this question. This article surveys all the details to consider, when investing in furniture (most specifically). Both West Elm and Article are wonderful brands and neither one should be completely overlooked just based off of one negative detail.
West Elm Has Stores To See Things in Person, Article is All Online
I agree that getting to hop into the car and see a desired piece of furniture, in person, is so handy! Let’s say you can’t quite get a grasp on that navy-gray leather. Luckily, you can solve that issue in one hour and go see it in person, as well as pick up the color fabric sample to take home with you.
On the other hand, Article prides itself as being only online and direct to consumer. But cutting out the middle man, they are hoping to help you save on some costs.
Article and West Elm Shipping Times Can Be Very Long…but Covid
Before Covid effected nationwide shipping times, Article furniture could be expected to ship in a few weeks. Custom furniture options with West Elm would take 2+ months. There was something very alluring to getting a quicker ship time with Article.
Present day, it’s not very reliable to even discuss shipping! The whole world is struggling with it. So have some grace and be realistic. If the shipping times cannot be confirmed at the point of checkout, consider this alternative idea I have for you!
I have a curve ball to throw your way…Go to an antique shop or thrift store, find a phenomenal sofa based off its existing frame. Purchase it with the intention to recover and you will most likely spend the same amount, if not less, and have it in a much a sooner amount of time.
West Elms Is Slightly Less Expensive And Has Fabulous Sales!
Article vs West Elm on Affordability. One user review put this so well. They said, yes, West Elm may be slightly less expensive and perhaps their quality is slightly less too. However, it can be the perfect combination with the right client for a few reasons: West Elm has very trendy and sleek looking, mid-century furniture designs. If they last for about 5 years, that could be the perfect time to reset your style and refresh with updated looks. So, for some people, having a sofa that lasts for 10 years may not be the most desirable option. (As counter-intuitive as it may seem!)
Secondly, consistently, people talk about what great sales West Elm has, allowing them to get phenomenal things at a great deal.
Customer Service: Article Has Better Service Than West Elm
Article vs West Elm on customer service. This opinion is not my own. I have extensively reviewed the written opinions out there. And I consistently come across the opinion that Article customers have been very pleased with the customer service. Although people love the look and design of West Elm products, there seems to be a consistent theme that the customer service has room for improvement. I, myself, have had good quality customer service from West Elm.
Reviews on Quality
I am simply reading personal reviews on quality. These are not my own, since I don’t own either brand. Consistently, Article furniture customers have a 10/10 rating on quality. And this is regarding chairs, sofas, sectionals, and rockers.
Also consistently, West Elm customers have about 8/10 ratings on quality, yet they back up their claims since the price can be a little less than Article furniture. And oftentimes, they are ready to have a refresh on their space by the time the furniture is losing its “shelf-life.”
In Conclusion…
In conclusion, there are many aspects to take into consideration when considering West Elm vs Article brands. Both are wonderful brands and have amazing “Street Cred.”
I hope you consider shopping at both places, if the need is warranted. They both offer slightly different looks. If you want to see an article that gives ideas on Mid-Century Modern Looks I have written one here. And ultimately, if you can purchase something IN STORE at West Elm, that is a win all the way around when it comes to instant gratification!
