Classic Furniture Worth Investing In

Furniture styles are always changing, as are people's tastes. But there are certain classic furniture items that will always be in style and are worth investing in. Here are five can't-go-wrong items that every home should have.

Lawson Sofa
A Lawson sofa is your best bet for a classic couch that will never go out of style (a Bridgewater sofa is another). Lawson's have high backs, low arms, and are perfect for curling up with a good book. They fit in with a variety of different styles of décor and can move and grow with you as your decorating tastes evolve. Remember that a good quality sofa should last up to 25 years (average quality sofas should last around 10) so you can recover it if and when your style or color scheme changes and you don't have to invest in another costly piece.

Pair of Side Chairs
A good pair of side chairs will always have a use. They look great on either side of a mantel, as part of a living room furniture arrangement, on either side of a sideboard or console in a dining room or entryway, and just about any other corner or nook that needs a little something. Get something that isn't too bulky or heavy and try not to purchase anything too ornate or overly decorative. A simple style will serve you well as your tastes change and evolve. Chairs with fabric seats and backs can be reupholstered an infinite number of times as they get moved to different rooms and homes.

Crystal Chandelier
Crystal chandeliers have been popular for hundreds of years and it's pretty safe to say they'll never go out of style. While the look is often traditional (and even a little frou frou), crystal chandeliers can work in a variety of different settings. For instance, try putting one in a modern room for a real beauty of a focal point. And don't be afraid to use them in different parts of the house. They look great in bedrooms, kitchens, living rooms and even bathrooms. Chances are good that you'll always have a use for one.

Armless Bench
Armless benches are truly versatile pieces of furniture. They can serve as extra seating or be used as table surfaces. They can go in living rooms, be pulled up to dining room tables, sit at the foot of a bed, or be placed in an entryway. If and when you want them to disappear to make more room you can simply tuck them under a table (benches with arms won't always fit). Try getting one that's a fairly simple style – that way it will work in just about any room and you can reupholster it or add a cushion if the need arises.

Full Length Carved Mirror
Despite the fact that these are often ornate, there are very few places where they won't work (I always opt for gold but silver is very nice too). If you can afford a French antique version I highly recommend it, but if not you can often find reproduction versions for around $200 and up at home stores and department stores. These can be put in modern and traditional settings and can either go on the floor, hang on the wall, or lean against the wall on top of a table if the room has really high ceilings (it's a dramatic and fabulous look for large entryways). Not only are they practical, they also open up spaces and reflect light, making the rooms they're in appear larger. (Note: while dark wood versions are lovely, they're not as versatile as gold, silver, or lighter shades of wood.)