Room & Board vs Burke Decor: Who Has Better Couches?
Who offers the coziest spot to lounge: Room & Board or Burke Decor? Join us as we uncover the answer to this sofa saga.
Alex Back | Couch.com CEO & Founder
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Embark on a journey to discover which furniture powerhouse deserves the crown as we pit Room & Board against Burke Decor. Get cozy and let's explore the nuances that set these brands apart in the realm of couch excellence.
Side By Side
Features
Room & Board
Burke Decor
Made to Order Lead Times
4-10 weeks
8-10 weeks
Free Shipping Option
White Glove Delivery Option
$119
$150
Return Option
Warranty Included
Financing Option
Affirm
Affirm
Assembly Required
Large Fabric Selection
Free Swatches Available
Manufacturing Origin
USA
USA + Import
Avg. 3-Seat Couch Price
$$$
$$$-$$$$
In the battle of style and durability, Room & Board emerges as the leader, offering sophisticated designs and top-notch quality that promise long-lasting comfort and elegance. While both brands adopt sustainable practices, Room & Board's transparent approach and focus on American craftsmanship add significant value. In terms of overall value, Room & Board excels, providing a luxurious experience that justifies its higher price point, making it the ideal choice for those seeking enduring grace and sustainability in their furniture.
BRAND #1: Room & Board
Founded in 1980, Room & Board is a veteran in the furniture industry, known for its timeless designs and commitment to American craftsmanship. They partner with local artisans and prioritize sustainability, setting ambitious goals for eco-friendly practices and materials. Their transparent approach to pricing and focus on customer satisfaction make them a trusted name in the furniture market.
Room & Board | Brand Summary
Room & Boardgets it. They have a beautiful and useful website that makes shopping for a couch delightful. Their quality is excellent, their couches are made in the USA, and they have measurable and attainable sustainability goals. If their lead times were better and if they had an actual warranty on their couches then they would get a MAJOR bump in their PotatoMeter rating.
Compared to other well-known brands that offer stylish and affordable sofas, Room & Board provides a higher-end alternative with superior durability and quality. If you’re OK with those caveats, then Room & Board is a phenomenal choice for your couch purchase.
No sale events (bummer if you're looking for discounts)
Limited information on specific construction details
Room and Board offers a delightful online shopping experience with high-quality, American-made couches and a strong commitment to sustainability. However, their 4 to 10-week lead time for custom upholstery might test your patience. The $119 white glove delivery fee, while convenient, adds to the overall cost. They don't offer a warranty on their couches, relying instead on a guarantee, which could be a concern for some.
Despite these drawbacks, the focus of Room and Board furniture on quality, sustainability, and customer satisfaction makes them a top contender for your next sofa purchase. Their "In Stock" fabric options are a great way to get your new couch faster, and their generous return policy provides peace of mind.
Founded in 2007, Burke Decor is an online furniture retailer that aims to bring high-end design to a wider audience. Their founder, Erin E. Burke, sought to make stylish furniture accessible to those living outside major cities. They offer a curated selection of sofas from various brands, prioritizing unique designs and quality craftsmanship. While their commitment to sustainability could be stronger, their focus on accessibility and design-forward pieces resonates with modern consumers.
Burke Decor | Brand Summary
Okay, I've gotta admit, Burke Decor surprised me (in a good way!). Their sofas are stylish, well-made, and feel like they'll stand the test of time. Their commitment to making good design accessible even outside of major cities is a big plus in my book. And you know what? They're not afraid to be a little different, and I admire that.
Yes, Burke Decor sofas come with a slightly higher price tag, but it feels like you're getting what you pay for. So, if you want a sofa that'll be a statement piece in your home and won't look like it came from the same old big box store, Burke Decor is a contender.
No free returns (5% restocking fee + customer pays return shipping)
Limited transparency about sustainability practices
Limited transparency about materials and construction methods for some sofas
Limited customization options beyond fabric and legs
Burke Decor offers a refreshing take on sofa shopping, boasting stylish and well-crafted pieces that feel unique and inviting. Their commitment to making good design accessible is commendable, especially with free shipping on qualifying orders and white glove delivery options.
However, the long lead times for some items and the less-than-stellar return policy could be drawbacks for some. Additionally, the lack of transparency regarding sustainability practices and detailed construction information might leave some buyers wanting more.
Overall, Burke Decor is a great option for those seeking a statement sofa with a touch of personality, but be prepared for potential wait times and factor in the costs associated with returns.
In the battle of best couch purveyors, Room & Board claims victory with its exceptional style, durability, and emphasis on sustainability. The brand's commitment to American craftsmanship and quality materials sets it apart as the premier option for those prioritizing lasting elegance and conscientious manufacturing. For buyers seeking an elevated furniture experience, Room & Board's offerings shine brightly.
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.
