7th Avenue vs Crate and Barrel: Who Has Better Couches?
Which brand's sofas not only look stylish but also promise durability: 7th Avenue or Crate and Barrel?
Alex Back | Couch.com CEO & Founder
Who has the better couches: 7th Avenue or Crate and Barrel? Let's dive into the details and find out which brand stands out in the battle of the sofas.
Side By Side
Features
7th Avenue
Crate and Barrel
Made to Order Lead Times
N/A
4-10 weeks
Free Shipping Option
White Glove Delivery Option
$0-$100
$279-$399
Return Option
Warranty Included
Financing Option
ShopPay / Klarna / Affirm
Crate and Barrel Credit Card
Assembly Required
Large Fabric Selection
Free Swatches Available
Manufacturing Origin
USA
USA + Import
Avg. 3-Seat Couch Price
$$$
$$$
If you're torn between 7th Avenue and Crate and Barrel, here are a few key factors to consider. While Crate and Barrel provide a white glove delivery option at a higher cost, 7th Avenue offers free returns within 10 days, making it easier to shop confidently. Both brands have their products manufactured in the USA, but 7th Avenue puts a stronger emphasis on sustainability with its use of certified materials, resonating with eco-conscious consumers. Furthermore, 7th Avenue stands out for its commitment to durability with a lifetime warranty on the frame, an advantage that Crate and Barrel does not explicitly offer. Ultimately, if you prioritize sustainability and a generous return policy, 7th Avenue might be the ideal choice for your next couch purchase.
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.
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.
Crate and Barrel, founded in 1962 by George and Carole Segal, emerged from a passion for simple, beautiful, and practical housewares discovered during their European honeymoon. With over 60 years of experience, the brand has become a household name, celebrated for its modern, timeless style and high-end aesthetic. Boasting a wide range of products for the entire home and numerous physical stores across North America and internationally, Crate & Barrel has solidified its position as an aspirational brand for those seeking a touch of elegance in their living spaces.
Crate and Barrel | Brand Summary
Crate & Barrel is a brand name that everyone knows. Crate and Barrel collaborates with artists and designers worldwide to curate globally inspired designs. Everyone has a sense that they’re a high-end, somewhat luxury brand with a price point that’s not outside the realm of attainability. They have a modern, tasteful-yet-inoffensive style that works well in most modern homes.
Crate and Barrel outlet stores are elegant and chic, but does that same style translate to their online shopping experience? Lackluster customer focus and dodgy transparency detract from an otherwise beautiful selection of couches.
Crate & Barrel, a household name in home furnishings, offers a stylish selection of sofas that blend modern flair with classic appeal. However, the allure of their elegant designs is tempered by some notable drawbacks.
The lack of a clear warranty policy raises concerns about long-term support. Additionally, the restrictive return policy for custom orders, coupled with inconsistent lead times, can lead to frustration for buyers seeking flexibility and timely delivery.
While these shortcomings are worth considering, Crate and Barrel also boasts several compelling advantages.
The brand's extensive fabric selection, detailed cleaning instructions, and complimentary swatches empower customers to make informed choices and maintain their sofas' pristine condition. White-glove delivery adds a touch of luxury to the purchasing experience, ensuring your new furniture arrives hassle-free. Furthermore, the availability of some USA-made collections appeals to those who prioritize domestic craftsmanship.
Overall, Crate & Barrel sofas offer a blend of style and convenience, albeit with some caveats. If you're willing to navigate the potential pitfalls and prioritize aesthetics and fabric choices, their collection might hold the perfect piece for your home.
In this head-to-head comparison of 7th Avenue and Crate and Barrel, a clear winner emerges. While both brands have their strengths, 7th Avenue's strong commitment to sustainability, USA manufacturing with certified materials, and a focus on durability with a lifetime frame warranty set it apart as the top choice for those seeking a stylish and eco-conscious couch option.
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.
