Couch Comparisons

Arhaus vs Ballard Designs: Who Has Better Couches?

Looking to upgrade your living room with a new couch but torn between Arhaus and Ballard Designs? Let's unravel the mystery of which brand tops the couch game.
Arhaus vs Ballard Designs
Which brand offers better couches, Arhaus or Ballard Designs? Let's dive in and compare their features to find out the answer.

Side By Side

Features
Arhaus
Ballard Designs
Made to Order Lead Times 6 weeks 10-12 weeks
Free Shipping Option
White Glove Delivery Option $299-$599
Return Option
Warranty Included
Financing Option Arhaus Credit Card Affirm / Ballard Designs Credit Card
Assembly Required Varies
Large Fabric Selection
Free Swatches Available
Manufacturing Origin USA USA
Avg. 3-Seat Couch Price $$$-$$$$ $$$-$$$$

If you're torn between Arhaus and Ballard Designs for your next couch purchase, let's break it down. Both brands offer high-quality, made-to-order couches with lead times of 6-12 weeks, catering to those with an eye for detail. Arhaus shines with white glove delivery options and a larger fabric selection along with free swatches, giving you ample choices for customization. On the other hand, Ballard Designs presents a wide array of customization options, providing the freedom to tailor your couch to your liking. While Arhaus offers financing through the Arhaus Credit Card and Affirm, Ballard Designs also provides financing options through their own credit card. Ultimately, the decision rests on your priorities, whether it's the delivery experience, fabric choices, or customization options that suit your preferences best.


BRAND #1: Arhaus

The image features the word "ARHAUS" in capital letters, written in a simple, elegant font. The text appears centered against a white background.

Founded in 1986, Arhaus has established itself as a premier destination for distinctive, high-quality furniture. With a commitment to sustainability, the brand partners with artisans worldwide, utilizing reclaimed, recycled, and natural materials. Their unique designs, often inspired by global travels and cultural influences, offer a refreshing alternative to mass-produced furniture. Arhaus' dedication to quality craftsmanship and customer satisfaction has earned them a loyal following of discerning homeowners who seek furniture that is both beautiful and built to last.

Arhaus | Brand Summary

Arhaus, as a brand, has consistently demonstrated a commitment to quality and customer satisfaction. Arhaus sofas are not just pieces of furniture but a blend of comfort, durability, and style that stands out in the market. The craftsmanship is evident in every stitch, and the attention to detail is commendable. Arhaus has created a positive brand vibe with their responsive customer service and user-friendly website. Arhaus sofas, sectionals, modular, and other sofa types cater to diverse customer needs, making Arhaus furniture a reliable choice for your next sofa purchase.

Arhaus | PotatoMeter Rating:

Online Shopping Experience Score 92%
Durability and Quality Score 95%
Shipping and Lead Time Score 90%
Vibe Check Score 97%
Customer Focus Score 93%
Overall PotatoMeter Rating 93%
Read Our Arhaus Brand Review

Arhaus | Pros & Cons

Pros

  • legant and unique designs
  • High-quality, durable materials
  • Made in the USA with global artisan partnerships
  • White glove delivery
  • Free fabric swatches (up to 5)
  • Commitment to sustainability

Cons

  • On the pricey end of the spectrum
  • Long lead times for custom orders
  • Warranty details are not easily accessible
  • 10% restocking fee on returns
  • Limited transparency regarding specific construction details

Arhaus offers a captivating blend of artistry and practicality in their sofa collections, with each piece meticulously crafted using high-quality materials. Their commitment to sustainability and unique designs, often inspired by global artisans, makes them a standout in the furniture market. However, the allure of Arhaus sofas comes at a premium price, reflecting their commitment to quality and craftsmanship.

While their white glove delivery ensures a seamless experience, the limited 14-day return window and 10% restocking fee might deter some potential buyers. Additionally, the lack of readily available warranty details and limited transparency regarding specific construction techniques might be a concern for those seeking comprehensive information before making a significant investment.

Despite these considerations, Arhaus remains a top choice for those who prioritize unique designs, quality materials, and sustainable practices. Their sofas, whether a plush sectional or a sleek modern design, are more than just furniture; they are a testament to the brand's dedication to creating pieces that elevate your living space and reflect your values and personal style.

Shop Arhaus Now

BRAND #2: Ballard Designs

The image shows the logo of Ballard Designs, featuring the company name "Ballard Designs" in a serif font with capitalized letters, on a white background.

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...

In the battle of Arhaus vs. Ballard Designs, it's a tie! Both brands offer exceptional couches with their unique strengths. Whether you opt for Arhaus' sustainability commitment and diverse fabric selection or Ballard Designs' timeless designs and wide customization options, you're sure to find the perfect couch for your space.

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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.
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