Which brand emerges victorious in the clash between Outer's sustainability focus and Hem's Scandinavian design?
Alex Back | Couch.com CEO & Founder
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Step into the ring where Outer and Hem battle it out for the title of the most stylish and durable couch. Get your referee hats on to witness the clash of sustainability and modern aesthetics.
Side By Side
Features
Outer
Hem
Made to Order Lead Times
8-10 weeks
1-7 Weeks
Free Shipping Option
White Glove Delivery Option
$275-$475
$299
Return Option
Warranty Included
Financing Option
Affirm
Affirm
Assembly Required
Varies
Large Fabric Selection
Free Swatches Available
Manufacturing Origin
China
Europe
Avg. 3-Seat Couch Price
$$$$
$$$$
In the battle of style and durability, Outer shines with its premium materials and sustainable practices, appealing to the luxury market. Meanwhile, Hem impresses with its Scandinavian design and quality construction, targeting the mid-range buyer seeking modern elegance. Outer's focus on sustainability and durable materials sets it apart, whereas Hem's emphasis on stylish, durable pieces provides great value for design-conscious consumers. While Outer oozes luxury and sustainability, Hem offers a blend of modern design and quality construction, making the choice between the two a matter of personal preference.
BRAND #1: Outer
Outer is a California-based brand that's revolutionizing the outdoor furniture industry with its innovative designs and commitment to sustainability. Founded by former Casper executive Jiake Liu, Outer is known for its unique Neighborhood Showroom program, which allows customers to experience their furniture in real-life settings. Their commitment to using recycled materials and responsible sourcing practices sets them apart from competitors. Outer's sofas are not just furniture; they're a statement of style, sustainability, and community engagement.
Outer | Brand Summary
Exploring the world of Outer's outdoor furniture, I'm struck by the brand's unwavering dedication to creating pieces as durable as they are stylish. Integrating innovative features like the OuterShell cover system exemplifies their commitment to product longevity and user convenience. Amazingly, Outer manages to blend form with function seamlessly, offering a range that appeals to the discerning customer looking for that perfect mix of aesthetic appeal and practicality. Their focus on sustainability further enhances their brand appeal, positioning Outer as a leader in the outdoor furniture market, deeply attuned to the desires and concerns of today's consumers.
Innovative designs with integrated OuterShell cover system
High-quality, durable materials (OuterWeave™, Grade A teak, powder-coated aluminum)
Exceptional 10-year warranty on teak and aluminum frames
365-day return policy
Free shipping for specific items ordered with larger purchases
Commitment to sustainability and eco-friendly practices
Cons
Relatively expensive
20% restocking fee for returns (plus return shipping cost)
Limited customization options beyond fabric and configuration
Some negative customer reviews regarding customer service and delivery
No expedited shipping option
Outer is a brand that excels in creating stylish and durable outdoor furniture, particularly their innovative sofas with the unique OuterShell cover system. However, their premium price point and limited customization options might not suit every budget or taste.
While the generous warranties and lengthy return policy provide peace of mind, the 20% restocking fee for returns could be a deterrent. Additionally, some customers have reported issues with customer service and delivery, which could impact the overall experience.
If you prioritize quality, durability, and sustainable practices, and are willing to invest in premium outdoor furniture, Outer is a compelling option. But if you're looking for a more budget-friendly choice with extensive customization options, you might want to explore other brands.
Hem is a design-forward furniture company that partners with renowned designers to create modern pieces with a Scandinavian aesthetic. Their commitment to quality is evident in their use of premium materials and focus on durable construction. Founded by Petrus Palmer, Hem aims to be a driving force in the design community, offering stylish and functional furniture that stands the test of time. Their emphasis on sustainability is also noteworthy, with a focus on responsible materials and minimizing waste in production and packaging.
Hem | Brand Summary
Hem nails the balance between playful design and grown-up craftsmanship. Their sofas won't fall apart after a month, and the fabrics feel surprisingly luxurious for the price point. While I have a few nitpicks (which we'll get into shortly!), I was pleasantly surprised by how well the brand walks the line between trendy and timeless. If you're looking for furniture with personality but don't want to compromise on quality, Hem is absolutely worth checking out.
Transparent shipping information and multiple shipping methods
Financing options available through Affirm
Free fabric swatches
Strong emphasis on sustainability
Cons
Limited return window
Expensive return shipping and repackaging fees
No free shipping
Limited customization options
Limited information on cushion construction and support systems
Hem offers stylish, Scandinavian-inspired sofas that boast quality craftsmanship and durable materials. Their dedication to transparency is evident in their clear shipping information and detailed care instructions. However, the limited return window and hefty return fees could be a dealbreaker for some, and the lack of free shipping adds to the overall cost. While their customizable options are decent, they might not satisfy those seeking extensive personalization.
Overall, Hem is a strong contender for design-conscious buyers willing to invest in quality, but potential customers should weigh the costs and limitations before committing.
After considering style, durability, and sustainability, Outer takes the crown in this showdown. Its premium materials and sustainable practices make it a top choice for those valuing luxury with a conscience. Outer's commitment to quality and sustainability gives it an edge, making it a standout option for the eco-conscious design aficionado.
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.
