Couch Comparisons

7th Avenue vs Ballard Designs: Who Has Better Couches?

August 26, 2024

Searching for the perfect sofa: Should you choose a cozy piece from 7th Avenue or a chic one from Ballard Designs? The decision awaits.

Alex Back | Couch.com CEO & Founder

Ready to unravel the mystery of which sofa brand, 7th Avenue or Ballard Designs, reigns supreme in the realm of stylish comfort? Let's embark on a journey to discover which brand elevates your lounging experience.

Side By Side

Features	7th Avenue	Ballard Designs
Made to Order Lead Times	N/A	10-12 weeks
Free Shipping Option
White Glove Delivery Option	$0-$100
Return Option
Warranty Included
Financing Option	ShopPay / Klarna / Affirm	Affirm / Ballard Designs Credit Card
Assembly Required		Varies
Large Fabric Selection
Free Swatches Available
Manufacturing Origin	USA	USA
Avg. 3-Seat Couch Price	$$$	$$$-$$$$

Exploring the choices between 7th Avenue and Ballard Designs reveals unique features in each brand. 7th Avenue impresses with its sustainability focus and modern design, falling within the mid-range price bracket. Conversely, Ballard Designs offers a plethora of customization options and elegant designs, targeting premium and luxury customers. The lead time differences between the brands highlight distinct approaches with 7th Avenue not specifying and Ballard Designs requiring 10-12 weeks for made-to-order items. For those valuing sustainable practices and modern aesthetics, 7th Avenue delivers an attractive option; however, for customers seeking refined customization and timeless designs, Ballard Designs emerges as a compelling choice.

BRAND #1: 7th Avenue

Founded in 2022 by Billy Shaw and Josh Stinson, 7th Avenue is a relatively new player in the furniture industry, aiming to revolutionize the concept of "functional luxury." They focus solely on their modular sofa, prioritizing quality craftsmanship and sustainable practices. Their commitment to eco-consciousness is reflected in their use of OEKO-TEX certified fabrics and FSC-certified wood, as well as their emphasis on products designed to last a decade or more. Despite being a young company, 7th Avenue has quickly gained recognition for its innovative approach to furniture design and its dedication to sustainability.

7th Avenue | Brand Summary

As a furniture connoisseur, I’ve seen my fair share of sofas, and 7th Avenue has consistently caught my eye. Their sofas are not just pieces of furniture. They’re a statement. The quality of their products is evident in the craftsmanship. Each sofa is designed with attention to detail and built to last, reflecting the brand’s commitment to excellence. 7th Avenue’s customer-centric approach is another aspect that sets them apart. They understand that a sofa is more than just a seat - it’s an integral part of your home. The brand vibe is modern, chic, and inviting, much like their sofas. It’s clear that 7th Avenue isn’t just selling sofas. They’re selling a lifestyle.

7th Avenue | PotatoMeter Rating:

Online Shopping Experience Score	94%
Durability and Quality Score	96%
Shipping and Lead Time Score	94%
Vibe Check Score	97%
Customer Focus Score	95%
Overall PotatoMeter Rating	95%

Read Our 7th Avenue Brand Review

7th Avenue | Pros & Cons

Pros

High-quality, durable materials
Stylish and modern design
Lifetime warranty on frame
Free returns within 10 days
Free fabric swatches
Strong emphasis on sustainability

Cons

Limited sofa options (only one modular design)
Warranty doesn't cover wear and tear on cushions and fabrics
Requires assembly (white-glove service available for a fee)
Limited customization options
Limited availability outside Southern California

7th Avenue offers a unique approach to sofa shopping with their focus on a single, customizable modular design. Their commitment to sustainability and high-quality materials is evident in their product and manufacturing practices. While they offer a generous warranty and free returns within 10 days, the shipping costs and limited fabric options might be a drawback.

The modular design, though innovative, also means the sofa requires assembly, although white-glove service is available. Some customers have reported issues with fabric pilling over time. If you value sustainable practices, modern aesthetics, and a sofa that can adapt to your changing needs, 7th Avenue is worth considering, despite the limited options and potential assembly challenges.

Shop 7th Avenue Now

BRAND #2: Ballard Designs

Ballard Designs, established over 35 years ago, has become a household name in the home furnishings industry. Their enduring legacy is built upon a foundation of timeless design, quality craftsmanship, and a passion for creating inspiring living spaces. The brand's dedication to sustainability and collaboration with renowned designers further solidifies their position as a leader in the market. With their commitment to excellence and customer-centric approach, Ballard Designs continues to offer furniture that stands the test of time, both in style and durability.

Ballard Designs | Brand Summary

When it comes to Ballard Designs' couches, my overall impression is genuinely positive. Their catalog reflects a dedication to craftsmanship and style that's hard to overlook. Each sofa feels like a tribute to both comfort and design, blending practicality with a touch of luxury. Amazingly, they manage to cater to a broad range of tastes without compromising on quality. From the plush cushions to the fine fabrics, Ballard Designs prioritizes user satisfaction and durability. Their market presence is strong, not just because of their product quality, but due to their understanding of what makes a home feel like home.

Ballard Designs | PotatoMeter Rating

Online Shopping Experience Score	91%
Durability and Quality Score	93%
Shipping and Lead Time Score	93%
Vibe Check Score	93%
Customer Focus Score	94%
Overall PotatoMeter Rating	93%

Read Our Ballard Designs Brand Review

Ballard Designs | Pros & Cons

Pros

Elegant and timeless designs
High-quality materials (top-grain leather, performance fabrics, etc.)
Made in the USA
Free shipping for smaller items
Free fabric swatches
Wide range of customization options

Cons

Long lead times for custom-made pieces
Return shipping fees are not covered and a restocking fee may apply
Lack of transparency regarding warranty details
Assembly may be required
White-glove delivery is an added cost

Ballard Designs captures the essence of refined living with its elegant and timeless sofas. The brand's dedication to quality is evident in their use of high-end materials like top-grain leather and durable fabrics, all crafted in the USA. With a wide range of customization options and a generous selection of free swatches, you can create a sofa that perfectly complements your style and space.

The premium experience, however, comes with a few tradeoffs. The price tag for a Ballard Designs sofa can be substantial, reflecting their commitment to quality and craftsmanship. While they offer free shipping for smaller items, larger sofas may require additional delivery fees, and in-home delivery and assembly come at an extra cost. Additionally, returns, while possible, are subject to fees and certain exclusions.

Overall, Ballard Designs caters to discerning homeowners who appreciate quality, craftsmanship, and timeless design. While the investment may be significant, the brand's commitment to customer satisfaction and sustainable practices makes their sofas a worthy addition to any home.

Shop Ballard Designs Now

And the winner is...

After weighing the options between 7th Avenue and Ballard Designs, the ideal choice boils down to personal preferences. Those inclined towards sustainability and contemporary design may lean towards 7th Avenue, while those seeking sophisticated customization and timeless elegance might find Ballard Designs more fitting. Ultimately, the decision hinges on whether you prioritize sustainability or refined customization when selecting your ideal sofa.

A smiling man with short brown hair and a beard stands on a beach during sunset. He is wearing a black short-sleeved shirt with small white dots. The ocean and sandy shore are in the background, creating a warm and relaxed atmosphere.

Alex Back

Couch.com CEO & Founder

Alex Back is the founder and CEO of Couch.com. Previously, he was the co-founder and COO of the popular furniture brand, Apt2B, which was acquired by a large US retail furniture chain in 2018. He worked to integrate Apt2B, one of the very first online furniture retailers on the Shopify platform, into the operations of the 100 year old larger business entity and was deeply immersed in the business operations of both online and brick and mortar retail for 4 years before leaving in 2023 to start Couch.com. Working in various parts of the furniture industry since 2004, he has 20 years experience in retail sales, e-commerce, marketing, operations, logistics and wholesale manufacturing and distribution. He has worked extensively with partners such as Costco, Bed Bath and Beyond and Amazon and his work has been highlighted in many publications such as Forbes, CNN and HGTV, among others. Alex is delighted to bring his experience and authority on couches and the furniture industry to this platform, along with many of his industry colleagues who are helping him keep the Couch.com audience informed and engaged on a daily basis.

Expand

Learn more about our experts

Copy Link Copied!