The Ultimate Guide to Comparing Arhaus vs. Room & Board Furniture Quality

Choosing the Best Furniture: Arhaus vs. Room & Board

When comparing Arhaus vs. Room & Board, the goal is to determine which brand offers higher quality furniture, better customer service, and overall value for your money.

Here’s a quick breakdown:

• Arhaus

  • High-end luxury with a focus on handcrafted, artisanal pieces.
  • Traditional and transitional styles.
  • Sustainable practices and eco-friendly materials.
  • Higher price point, generally $$$$.

• Room & Board

  • Modern and mid-century modern styles.
  • Focus on American craftsmanship and made-to-order items.
  • Mid-range to high-end, generally $$$ to $$$$.
  • Emphasizes quick shipping and hassle-free returns.

We’ll dive deep into the specifics of each brand to help you make an informed decision. From craftsmanship and materials to customer experiences and pricing, you’ll get a clear picture of what each brand offers.

My name is Ben Trapskin, and I’ve spent years researching and writing about furniture and mattresses, driven by my journey to improve my own sleep and living environment. This guide leverages my expertise and comprehensive data to help you steer the choice between Arhaus vs. Room & Board.

Company Backgrounds

When comparing Arhaus vs. Room & Board, understanding their backgrounds can provide valuable context about their values and operations.

Arhaus

Arhaus was founded in 1986 in Boston Heights, Ohio. The company prides itself on offering high-quality, handcrafted furniture. Arhaus sources materials globally and collaborates with artisans from around the world. This approach allows them to create unique and sustainable pieces that stand out in the market.

Arhaus is known for its commitment to sustainability. They use eco-friendly materials and practices, such as recycled glass and sustainably sourced wood. Their furniture often incorporates artisanal touches and traditional craftsmanship, which adds to the brand’s luxury appeal.

Room & Board

Room & Board was established earlier, in 1980, and is headquartered in Golden Valley, Minnesota. Unlike Arhaus, Room & Board focuses on American craftsmanship. They partner with local manufacturers and artisans across the United States to produce their furniture, ensuring high-quality standards and supporting local economies.

Room & Board is also committed to sustainability. They use responsibly sourced hardwoods and other eco-friendly materials. The company is known for its modern and mid-century design aesthetics, which appeal to customers looking for clean lines and functional pieces.

Arhaus vs. Room & Board:

Understanding these backgrounds helps to see why each brand has its unique strengths and what they prioritize in their business models. Next, we’ll dive into the furniture quality and craftsmanship of both brands to see how these values translate into their products.

Furniture Quality and Craftsmanship

Arhaus Quality

Arhaus prides itself on handcrafted furniture that combines global artisan techniques with eco-friendly materials. Their pieces often feature recycled glass from Mexico, crafted by exclusive Mexican artisans, and sustainably sourced hardwoods.

Materials: Arhaus uses a mix of high-quality materials, including top-grain leather, solid wood, and performance fabrics. For instance, their Kipton Sectional is available in Crypton fabric, known for its durability and stain resistance.

Construction: The construction is robust, with many pieces built in North Carolina. Despite this, some customers have noted that certain items, like their coffee tables, are made in China, raising questions about consistency.

Durability: Reviews are mixed. Some customers rave about the longevity and comfort of their sofas, while others report issues like sagging leather and cushions losing shape quickly. This indicates variability depending on the specific product line.

Sustainability: Arhaus is committed to sustainability. They use eco-friendly materials and partner with artisans worldwide to create unique, sustainable pieces. For example, they use wood certified by the Sustainable Forestry Initiative.

Room & Board Quality

Room & Board emphasizes American craftsmanship and sustainable practices. Their products are often made in the USA, focusing on high-quality materials and construction techniques.

Materials: Room & Board uses solid hardwoods, top-grain leathers, and performance fabrics. Their pieces are known for being sturdy and well-built, often featuring sustainably sourced materials.

Construction: The brand is known for its meticulous craftsmanship. For example, their Metro sofa is praised for its sturdy frame and the option to choose foam-filled cushions for added firmness.

Durability: Room & Board furniture generally receives high marks for durability. Customers often highlight the longevity of their pieces, with some sofas and chairs lasting over a decade without significant wear.

Sustainability: The company is committed to sustainability, with many products made from FSC-certified wood. They also promote sustainable practices through their manufacturing processes.

In summary, Arhaus vs. Room & Board in terms of quality and craftsmanship shows a blend of artisanal, eco-friendly approaches from Arhaus and solid, American-made durability from Room & Board. Each brand has its strengths and potential pitfalls, making it essential to consider your specific needs and preferences when choosing between them. Next, we’ll explore the product range and aesthetics each brand offers.

Product Range and Aesthetics

When comparing Arhaus vs. Room & Board, understanding their product range and design aesthetics is crucial. Both brands offer unique styles and customization options, catering to different tastes and needs.

Arhaus Product Range

Arhaus is known for its wide range of traditional and transitional furniture. They offer everything from sofas and dining tables to bedroom sets and home decor.

• Furniture Types: Arhaus provides a variety of furniture including living room sets, dining tables, bedroom furniture, and office pieces. They also offer a range of outdoor furniture and decor items.

• Design Styles: The brand’s design style leans towards traditional and transitional aesthetics. Their pieces often feature classic lines, ornate details, and rich finishes.

• Customization Options: Arhaus offers customization on many of their pieces. Customers can choose from various fabrics, finishes, and configurations to match their personal style and home decor. This flexibility allows for a more personalized shopping experience.

Arhaus also emphasizes handcrafted items made by global artisans. This adds a unique, one-of-a-kind feel to many of their products, making each piece special.

Room & Board Product Range

Room & Board focuses on modern and mid-century designs. Their product range is extensive and caters to those who appreciate clean lines and functional pieces.

• Furniture Types: Room & Board offers a comprehensive selection of furniture for every room in the house. This includes sofas, beds, dining tables, storage solutions, and office furniture. They also provide a selection of outdoor furniture and home accessories.

• Design Styles: The brand’s style is predominantly modern and mid-century modern. Their pieces are characterized by sleek lines, minimalistic designs, and a focus on functionality. This makes them a favorite for those looking for contemporary and timeless furniture.

• Customization Options: Room & Board excels in offering made-to-order items. Customers can select from a variety of sizes, fabrics, and finishes to create pieces that perfectly fit their space and style. This level of customization ensures that each piece is custom to the customer’s needs.

Room & Board’s commitment to American craftsmanship is evident in their product range. Many of their pieces are made in the USA, ensuring high quality and supporting local manufacturers.

In conclusion, when comparing the product range and aesthetics of Arhaus vs. Room & Board, it’s clear that both brands offer distinct styles and customization options. Arhaus caters to those who prefer traditional and transitional designs with a handcrafted touch, while Room & Board appeals to fans of modern and mid-century aesthetics with a focus on made-to-order flexibility.

Next, we’ll dig into the pricing and value offered by each brand.

Pricing and Value

When comparing Arhaus vs. Room & Board in terms of pricing and value, understand the different price points and what you get for your money. Let’s break it down.

Arhaus Pricing

Arhaus is known for its luxury and high-end furniture. Their pieces are often seen as investment items due to their quality and craftsmanship. Prices are generally on the higher side, reflecting the premium materials and intricate designs.

For example, an Arhaus sectional like the Kipton can cost around $8,497. Customers often experience sticker shock, but many find the quality and comfort justify the price. One reviewer noted, “We gladly would pay for the Kipton for the increased comfort and quality.”

Arhaus also offers a Worry-Free Protection Plan for an additional cost, which can cover accidental damage for up to 5 years. This plan can add value, especially for high-use items like sofas.

Room & Board Pricing

Room & Board, on the other hand, offers a more mid-range pricing structure. While still considered affordable luxury, their products are generally more cost-effective compared to Arhaus.

For instance, a Room & Board sectional like the Metro Deep can be priced around $3,000 to $5,000. This makes it a more budget-friendly option without sacrificing quality. One customer shared, “The Metro is a good choice… durable fabric, perfect back height, just the right softness without being too soft.”

Room & Board also stands out for its quick shipping and hassle-free returns, adding to the overall value. Their in-house delivery service ensures a smooth experience, which is often highlighted in positive customer reviews.

In summary, Arhaus targets those willing to invest in high-end, luxury pieces, while Room & Board offers more affordable yet still high-quality options. Your choice will depend on your budget and what you value more in your furniture investment.

Next, we’ll explore customer service and delivery for both brands.

Customer Service and Delivery

Arhaus Customer Service

Arhaus is known for its white glove delivery service. This means your furniture is delivered, unpacked, and assembled right in your home, with all packaging materials removed. This premium service is included for a flat rate of $299, regardless of how many pieces you order.

Customers often appreciate the professionalism and care taken during delivery. One Reddit user shared, “The delivery team was one of the most professional I’ve encountered in our numerous home deliveries. The furniture was very well packaged and protected.”

However, there have been some mixed experiences with customer support. For instance, one customer had an issue when their sectional didn’t fit up the staircase as promised by the salesperson. They had to escalate the matter to get a resolution, which included a refund after some back-and-forth with management.

In terms of returns, Arhaus has a more restrictive policy. Custom orders, clearance items, and mattresses typically cannot be returned. For other items, returns are accepted within 30 days, but you may incur restocking fees.

Protection plans are available, covering accidents like spills and stains, which adds peace of mind for high-ticket items.

Room & Board Customer Service

Room & Board excels in customer support and hassle-free returns. Their in-house delivery service ensures that your furniture arrives quickly and is set up professionally. Unlike Arhaus, Room & Board handles its own deliveries, which means fewer delays and better coordination.

One reviewer noted, “The customer service in particular is what was impressive – no hassle returns and repairs it seems.”

Room & Board offers a free return policy for standard items, making it easier for customers to change their minds. If you’re not satisfied, you can return your purchase within a specified period without any restocking fees. This policy is particularly appealing for those who want to try out furniture before committing.

For delivery, Room & Board offers quick shipping options, often delivering within three weeks of placing an order. This speed is a significant advantage over other retailers, including Arhaus, which may take longer depending on stock availability.

In terms of protection plans, Room & Board offers comprehensive coverage for their products. This includes protection against everyday mishaps, ensuring your investment is safeguarded.

In summary, when comparing Arhaus vs. Room & Board in terms of customer service and delivery, Room & Board generally offers a more seamless and customer-friendly experience. Their hassle-free returns and quick shipping stand out, whereas Arhaus excels in the white glove delivery but has a stricter return policy.

Next, let’s dive into customer reviews and experiences for both brands.

Customer Reviews and Experiences

Arhaus Reviews

Arhaus garners a mix of feedback from customers. One Reddit user shared a frustrating experience with a sofa that didn’t fit up their staircase. Despite assurances from the sales staff, Arhaus initially refused to take it back. The user had to escalate the issue to higher management to get a refund. This highlights a common complaint: poor customer service.

Another user praised the comfort and quality of the Arhaus Kipton Sectional, calling it the most comfortable couch they’ve ever tried. They appreciated the high-quality materials and the minimalist design, which fit well in their home.

However, some reviews point out issues with durability. One customer noted that their Arhaus sofa, made with a linen blend fabric, developed worn spots and the store offered no help in resolving the issue. This suggests that while the furniture may be comfortable and aesthetically pleasing, it might not always stand the test of time.

Room & Board Reviews

Room & Board generally receives positive feedback for both quality and customer service. One user on Reddit mentioned having a Room & Board York sofa for 10 years, which remained comfortable and durable despite daily use by kids. Another user echoed this sentiment, praising their Room & Board sectional for being extremely comfortable and showing no quality issues even after five years.

One standout aspect is Room & Board’s customer service. A customer recounted how they ordered a sofa with the chaise on the wrong side but Room & Board replaced it at no cost, despite it being the customer’s mistake. This level of service is a significant plus for the brand.

However, not all reviews are glowing. One user mentioned their Room & Board Wells sofa fell apart in three years, with cushions flattening and supports giving out. This suggests that while many customers find Room & Board furniture durable, there are occasional exceptions.

In terms of delivery experiences, Room & Board is often praised for quick and efficient service. One user noted a less than three-week turnaround from order to delivery for their sectional, which is impressive compared to other brands.

In summary, Arhaus vs. Room & Board customer reviews show a clear divide. Arhaus is often praised for comfort and design but criticized for inconsistent customer service and durability issues. Room & Board, on the other hand, is lauded for its reliable quality and exceptional customer service, though some products may still show wear over time.

Frequently Asked Questions about Arhaus vs. Room & Board

Is Arhaus a luxury brand?

Yes, Arhaus is considered a luxury brand. They focus on high-end, handcrafted furniture, often using eco-friendly materials and collaborating with global artisans. The brand is known for its unique designs and premium quality, which cater to affluent customers looking for investment pieces.

For instance, the Arhaus Kipton Sectional is praised for its minimalist aesthetic and high comfort level, but it comes with a hefty price tag. This aligns with Arhaus’s positioning as a luxury brand, where customers are paying not just for the furniture but also for the craftsmanship and unique design elements.

Who competes with Arhaus?

Arhaus competes with several high-end furniture retailers. Notable competitors include Restoration Hardware (RH), Crate & Barrel, and West Elm. These brands also target affluent customers and offer a range of premium furniture options.

Restoration Hardware is often compared directly with Arhaus due to its similar price points and design aesthetics. Both brands focus on luxury and high-quality materials, but RH is known for its grand, statement pieces and extensive catalog.

Crate & Barrel and West Elm offer a mix of modern and traditional designs, often at slightly lower price points than Arhaus. However, they still maintain a reputation for quality and style, making them strong competitors in the high-end market.

Is Arhaus better than RH?

The comparison between Arhaus and Restoration Hardware (RH) often comes down to personal preference and specific needs. Both brands are high-end and offer luxurious, well-crafted furniture. However, there are some differences worth noting:

• Price: Both Arhaus and RH are expensive, but RH tends to have even higher price points, reflecting its focus on opulent, large-scale furniture.

• Design: Arhaus leans towards a blend of traditional and transitional styles, often incorporating eco-friendly materials and global craftsmanship. RH, on the other hand, is known for its grand, industrial, and modern designs.

• Customer Experience: According to user reviews, Arhaus has had some issues with customer service and durability. RH also faces similar criticisms, but both brands generally receive high marks for the quality and aesthetics of their products.

In summary, whether Arhaus is better than RH depends on your specific needs and preferences. If you prefer unique, handcrafted pieces with an eco-friendly touch, Arhaus might be the better choice. If you’re looking for grand, statement-making furniture and don’t mind paying a premium, RH could be more suitable.

Conclusion

When it comes to comparing Arhaus vs. Room & Board furniture quality, both brands have their strengths and weaknesses. Arhaus is known for its unique, handcrafted pieces and eco-friendly materials. Room & Board, on the other hand, prides itself on American craftsmanship and sustainable practices.

Arhaus Quality:

• Handcrafted: Many pieces are handmade by global artisans.
• Eco-Friendly: Uses sustainable and recycled materials.
• Durability: Generally high, but some users report issues with customer service and product longevity.

Room & Board Quality:

• American Craftsmanship: Emphasizes locally made, high-quality furniture.
• Sustainable Practices: Uses responsibly sourced hardwoods.
• Durability: Highly praised for long-lasting furniture and excellent customer service.

Pricing and Value:

• Arhaus: Positioned as a luxury brand with high-end, investment pieces.
• Room & Board: Offers mid-range pricing with a focus on affordable luxury and cost-effectiveness.

Customer Service and Delivery:

• Arhaus: Offers white glove delivery and protection plans but has mixed reviews on customer service.
• Room & Board: Known for hassle-free returns, quick shipping, and in-house delivery services.

Customer Reviews and Experiences:

• Arhaus: Mixed reviews with some complaints about durability and customer service.
• Room & Board: Generally positive reviews with high marks for durability and customer service.

In conclusion, choosing between Arhaus vs. Room & Board comes down to your personal preferences and priorities. If you value unique, artisanal pieces and eco-friendly materials, Arhaus might be the better choice. If you prefer American craftsmanship, sustainable practices, and excellent customer service, Room & Board could be more suitable.

For more detailed reviews and to explore our recommended mattress options, visit our Yawnder Mattress Reviews.