Restoration Hardware (RH) vs Wayfair: Who Has Better Couches?
Wondering where to land the perfect couch – at Restoration Hardware (RH) or Wayfair? The answer lies in the couch conundrum we're about to crack.
Alex Back | Couch.com CEO & Founder
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Step into the ring of comfort as we pit Restoration Hardware (RH) against Wayfair in the ultimate couch clash. With opulent offerings from RH and a myriad of choices from Wayfair, the battle of the couches is about to unfold.
Side By Side
Features
Restoration Hardware (RH)
Wayfair
Made to Order Lead Times
8-10 weeks
6-8 weeks
Free Shipping Option
White Glove Delivery Option
$299-$849
$0-$103.99
Return Option
Warranty Included
Financing Option
RH Credit Card
Multiple
Assembly Required
Varies
Large Fabric Selection
Free Swatches Available
Manufacturing Origin
USA + Import
USA + Import
Avg. 3-Seat Couch Price
$$$-$$$$
$-$$$
In terms of style, Restoration Hardware presents tasteful, luxurious options, whereas Wayfair offers a broad range to suit varied tastes and budgets. While RH focuses on durability and uses top-quality materials, Wayfair may have varying quality due to its multiple suppliers. Sustainability-wise, RH emphasizes quality over quantity, while Wayfair's wider selection isn't always synonymous with long-lasting pieces. In overall value, RH might appeal to those valuing timeless design and premium quality over sheer variety, whereas Wayfair could be preferable for those seeking affordability and a diverse range of styles.
BRAND #1: Restoration Hardware (RH)
Restoration Hardware, now known as RH, is the epitome of luxury in the home furnishings world. They have established themselves as the go-to brand for affluent customers and a source of inspiration for those aspiring to upscale living.
Restoration Hardware (RH) | Brand Summary
Restoration Hardware is the quintessential luxury brand. Yet their website shopping experience, their customization options, and their customer focus are all decidedly lackluster. Restoration Hardware sofas, however, are often highlighted for their modern styling and ability to serve as focal points in living spaces. That being said, RH does have decent lead times and their materials are extremely high quality.
But the real question is whether or not RH’s couches are worth the price of admission. If you want the clout of owning an RH couch then the answer is “yes.” If you’re looking for a high quality couch at a reasonable price, then there are plenty of other worthwhile options.
Lifetime "guarantee" on frame, springs, and cushions
Free swatches with no limit
In-stock couches ship quickly
White-glove delivery included
Cons
Expensive
Strict return policy (no returns on custom orders)
50% non-refundable deposit on custom orders
Lack of transparency regarding some manufacturing origins
Some couches lack channeled down cushions
Restoration Hardware (RH) is synonymous with luxury, offering sofas with exceptional, trend-setting style and top-notch materials. With a wide selection of fabrics and leathers, and a lifetime "guarantee" on frames, springs, and cushions, their couches promise both elegance and longevity. White-glove delivery ensures your RH sofa arrives in pristine condition and is set up hassle-free in your home.
Luxury, of course, comes at a price. RH sofas are a significant investment, and their return policy is less than ideal, especially for custom orders, which are non-returnable and require a 50% deposit. While in-stock couches can be returned, the details of this process are not readily available. Additionally, some customers may find the lack of channeled down cushions in certain models a drawback.
Overall, RH offers an aspirational brand experience and high-quality products, but potential buyers should be aware of the cost and limitations involved.
Wayfair, launched in 2002 as a collection of niche e-commerce sites, has evolved into the largest online retailer of home goods in the US. Their massive selection, competitive prices, and focus on convenience have made them a go-to destination for furniture shoppers. With a mission to make home design accessible to everyone, Wayfair offers various styles and price points through their house brands like AllModern, Birch Lane, Joss & Main, and Perigold. While their quality can vary due to their numerous suppliers, Wayfair's commitment to sustainability and their user-friendly platform make them a popular choice for those seeking to transform their living spaces.
Wayfair | Brand Summary
Wayfair is the mega-mart of the furniture world, offering a vast array of products. If you want insane choice and the thrill of finding a bargain, they’ve got you covered. Their sofa selection ranges from super budget-friendly to surprisingly decent quality at higher prices. Wayfair is a marketplace that features many different manufacturers and brands. Don’t expect the curated experience of a fancy showroom, but if you’re willing to do your homework (hello, reviews!), there are diamonds in the rough.
Potential inconsistent quality due to numerous suppliers
Potential for long lead times on certain items
No free shipping on all items
Limited customization options for many sofas
Some materials may not be the most durable
Wayfair is a sprawling landscape of endless choices, where you can score a budget-friendly sofa for your first apartment or splurge on a luxurious leather sectional fit for a palace. With their army of suppliers and brands, they've got something for everyone. And hey, who doesn't love free shipping and the option to have someone else do the heavy lifting (ahem, white-glove delivery)?
With great variety comes great responsibility. Wayfair's sheer size means you'll encounter a mixed bag of quality. Don't expect hand-carved masterpieces at rock-bottom prices. It's a treasure hunt, my friend. Read those reviews like you're deciphering a treasure map, and scrutinize those product descriptions like you're a sheriff on the hunt for outlaws. Remember, some sofas come with a lifetime warranty, while others offer a mere one-year guarantee. And if your heart changes after delivery? Well, you might be stuck with those return shipping costs.
So, if you're ready for an adventure, Wayfair is your playground. With a little savvy shopping, you can unearth hidden gems that won't drain your bank account. Just keep your expectations in check, do your due diligence, and you might just ride off into the sunset with the perfect sofa.
In the battle of the couch behemoths, Restoration Hardware reigns supreme, showcasing a blend of opulent style, top-tier durability, and a luxury experience that caters to those seeking timeless elegance and exceptional quality. With a focus on sustainable materials and customer-centric service, RH proves to be the pinnacle of couch luxury. Its commitment to high standards and premium offerings sets it apart as the ultimate choice for those valuing sophistication and enduring comfort in their living spaces.
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.
