CB2 vs Design Within Reach: Who Has Better Couches?
Looking to elevate your living space with a new couch but can't decide between CB2 and Design Within Reach? Discover which brand offers the epitome of modern style and sophistication. Which one will suit your aesthetic best?
Alex Back | Couch.com CEO & Founder
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Dreaming of a new designer couch but unsure where to start? Enter the arena where CB2 and Design Within Reach battle it out for the title of the best in modern sofa chic. Buckle up as we explore the intricacies of these furniture giants in the quest for the perfect centerpiece.
Side By Side
Features
CB2
Design Within Reach
Made to Order Lead Times
8 weeks
8-12 weeks
Free Shipping Option
White Glove Delivery Option
$279-$399
$399-$599
Return Option
Warranty Included
Financing Option
CB2 Credit Card
Affirm
Assembly Required
Large Fabric Selection
Free Swatches Available
Manufacturing Origin
Import
USA + Import
Avg. 3-Seat Couch Price
$$$
$$$$
Delving into CB2 and Design Within Reach, we find CB2 offering glamorous, stylish options with a range of high-quality fabrics for budget to mid-range buyers. In contrast, Design Within Reach caters to premium and luxury seekers with its curated high-end designer sofas. While CB2 focuses on stylish variety and flexibility, Design Within Reach prioritizes top-tier materials and craftsmanship, making it ideal for those valuing lasting quality and timeless design.
BRAND #1: CB2
CB2, the younger sibling of Crate & Barrel, is a modern furniture brand that pushes the boundaries of design with its innovative and eye-catching pieces. They collaborate with top designers to create a unique aesthetic that blends contemporary style with a touch of eclecticism. CB2 is known for its emphasis on high-quality materials and craftsmanship, although their pricing tends to be on the higher end. While they have set ambitious sustainability goals, the lack of a warranty and strict return policy may be areas for improvement.
CB2 | Brand Summary
CB2 offers glamorous, stunning couch options, but their nonexistent warranty, concerning return policies, and expensive delivery charges are issues that are impossible to ignore. I love so much about the presentation, the brand, and the selection, but there’s room for serious improvement in the customer focus department.
Strict return policy for custom orders (non-returnable)
Expensive delivery charges
Requires 50% non-refundable deposit on custom orders
Limited transparency regarding materials and construction details
CB2 certainly knows how to make a statement with their glamorous and stylish sofas, featuring an impressive selection of high-quality fabrics and a handy online sectional builder for those who crave a truly custom piece.
Their white-glove delivery option adds a touch of luxury to the experience, while the availability of free swatches helps you confidently choose the perfect fabric.
However, CB2's allure might lose some of its luster when you delve deeper into their policies. The lack of a warranty on their couches is a notable concern, especially considering their price point. Additionally, their return policy is quite strict, especially for custom orders, which are non-returnable and require a hefty deposit.
Ultimately, CB2 could be a dream come true for design enthusiasts seeking a statement piece, as long as you're confident in your choices and willing to forgo the safety net of a warranty.
Founded in 1998, Design Within Reach has long been a trailblazer in making iconic modern designs accessible to the masses. With a focus on partnering with renowned designers and showcasing timeless pieces, they have become a go-to destination for those seeking furniture that is both functional and visually stunning. DWR's commitment to quality craftsmanship is evident in their sofas, often featuring premium materials and meticulous attention to detail. While their price point might be a barrier for some, their dedication to design excellence and exceptional customer service continues to attract a loyal following of design enthusiasts.
Design Within Reach | Brand Summary
Design Within Reach markets itself as the source for accessible, authentic design pieces. Those are some big promises! As a furniture nerd, I had to try them out for myself. Overall, the hype is mostly justified – there's a reason DWR has staying power in this industry. Their focus on quality stands out, but their offerings aren't for everyone's budget (or style). Let's dig into why (or why not) these couches might be your thing.
High-quality materials like Italian leather and performance fabrics
Variety of customization options including modular sectionals
White-glove delivery for a seamless experience
In-home design services offered
Partnership with Affirm for financing
Cons
Expensive price point
Limited 30-day return window
High return shipping fees and potential restocking fee
Limited information on frame construction and cushion details
Varying manufacturing origins with potential for inconsistent quality control
Design Within Reach (DWR) is a sanctuary for design aficionados, offering a meticulously curated collection of high-end designer sofas that could make even the most discerning critic swoon.
Their commitment to quality is undeniable, with premium materials like buttery-soft Italian leather and durable performance fabrics, coupled with a seamless white-glove delivery experience.
However, DWR's allure comes with a price tag that might give some pause. Their sofas are an investment, averaging between $4,000-$8,000, and the 30-day return window could feel a bit tight for such a significant purchase. The potential for hefty return shipping fees and restocking charges further amplifies the financial commitment. And while they boast about their quality craftsmanship, specifics about frame construction and cushion details are surprisingly elusive.
Ultimately, DWR is a haven for those who prioritize design and impeccable service and are willing to pay for it. If you're seeking a statement piece that embodies timeless elegance, DWR could be your holy grail. But for budget-minded shoppers or those who crave transparency in every detail, it might be wise to explore other avenues before diving into the world of DWR.
After dissecting the details, Design Within Reach shines as the standout choice, offering top-tier quality and timeless elegance for those seeking a luxury investment piece. Its focus on impeccable craftsmanship and high-end designer collections elevates it above CB2 in providing a prestigious seating 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.
