Couch Comparisons

Ethan Allen vs Design Within Reach: Who Has Better Couches?

September 27, 2024

Looking to enhance your living space with a top-tier sofa? Discover which brand, Ethan Allen or Design Within Reach, will steal the show.

Alex Back | Couch.com CEO & Founder

Step into the arena where classic sophistication clashes with modern innovation as we compare Ethan Allen and Design Within Reach sofas. It's a match-up of timeless pieces and iconic designs that will leave your living room craving a stylish upgrade. So grab a seat, and let's unravel the saga of two furniture giants vying for your attention.

Side By Side

Features	Ethan Allen	Design Within Reach
Made to Order Lead Times	5-7 weeks	8-12 weeks
Free Shipping Option
White Glove Delivery Option	$99+	$399-$599
Return Option
Warranty Included
Financing Option	Ethan Allen Platinum Card	Affirm
Assembly Required
Large Fabric Selection
Free Swatches Available
Manufacturing Origin	North America	USA + Import
Avg. 3-Seat Couch Price	$$$-$$$$	$$$$

In the style department, Design Within Reach shines with its iconic modern designs, appealing to those seeking a contemporary touch. For durability, Ethan Allen secures the win with its top-grain leather and performance fabrics that scream longevity. When it comes to sustainability, both brands maintain a commitment to quality over quantity, ensuring long-lasting pieces. In terms of overall value, Design Within Reach's high-end designer offerings may attract those valuing unique statement pieces over traditional elegance.

BRAND #1: Ethan Allen

Founded in 1932, Ethan Allen has become synonymous with American style and craftsmanship. Their commitment to quality and innovation has made them a trusted name in the furniture industry for nearly a century. They offer a vast array of customizable designs, allowing customers to create unique pieces that reflect their personal style. With a focus on sustainability and a dedication to providing a premium customer experience, Ethan Allen continues to be a top choice for those seeking high-quality, timeless furniture.

Ethan Allen | Brand Summary

Now, here's a brand that's been crafting sofas since before your grandpa was a twinkle in his dad's eye. They've practically written the book on American furniture style, and their couches are no exception. But what makes an Ethan Allen sofa truly stand out in a sea of seating options? Let me tell you, it's their unwavering commitment to quality, craftsmanship, and creating pieces that are truly built to last.

You can expect top-notch materials, customizable designs that let you express your unique style, and a white-glove customer service experience that'll make you feel like royalty. But are Ethan Allen sofas worth the investment? Let's dive deeper into their collection and find out.

Ethan Allen | PotatoMeter Rating:

Online Shopping Experience Score	93%
Durability and Quality Score	92%
Shipping and Lead Time Score	90%
Vibe Check Score	90%
Customer Focus Score	92%
Overall PotatoMeter Rating	91%

Read Our Ethan Allen Brand Review

Ethan Allen | Pros & Cons

Pros

High-quality materials (top-grain leather, performance fabrics)
Made in the USA
Lifetime warranty on mechanisms
Free swatches
White-glove delivery
Customizable designs

Cons

Pricey
Long lead times for custom orders
Limited warranty for upholstery
Limited in-stock options
Return policy only 10 days for Premier In-home Delivery

Ethan Allen is like the grand dame of American furniture, with a legacy that whispers of timeless elegance and craftsmanship. Their sofas, whether adorned in supple leather or plush velvet, exude a classic charm that's hard to resist. And with their commitment to quality, you can rest assured that your Ethan Allen couch will be a cherished companion for years to come. Plus, their white-glove delivery service is the cherry on top, ensuring a seamless and stress-free experience from showroom to living room.

Now, let's be real – this kind of luxury doesn't come cheap. Be prepared to loosen those purse strings for an Ethan Allen sofa, as they're definitely an investment piece. And if you're the impatient type, you might want to look elsewhere, as custom orders can take weeks (or even months) to arrive. Their return policy could also use a bit of a refresh, especially for those who opt for the premium in-home delivery service.

But hey, if you're all about that heirloom-quality furniture that'll make your grandma proud, Ethan Allen might just be your perfect match. Their sofas are more than just a place to sit – they're a statement of timeless style and enduring craftsmanship. So, if you're willing to invest in a piece that'll become a cherished part of your home for years to come, go ahead and treat yourself to a little bit of Ethan Allen luxury.

Shop Ethan Allen Now

BRAND #2: Design Within Reach

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.

Design Within Reach | PotatoMeter Rating

Online Shopping Experience Score	92%
Durability and Quality Score	93%
Shipping and Lead Time Score	90%
Vibe Check Score	91%
Customer Focus Score	93%
Overall PotatoMeter Rating	92%

Read Our Design Within Reach Brand Review

Design Within Reach | Pros & Cons

Pros

Curated selection of high-end designer pieces
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.

Shop Design Within Reach Now

And the winner is...

The clear winner in this clash of couch titans is Design Within Reach, captivating buyers with its iconic modern designs and impeccable materials. Offering unique statement pieces for design enthusiasts, Design Within Reach stands out as the go-to for those seeking contemporary sophistication and enduring style.

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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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