For Nitin Bhayana, vice-resident (retail), Interiors Espania, furniture means much more than a wooden chair or a bed.

"It is something that gives your room a character; it also reflects the type of person you are," he says.

He is not too happy with the present situation where people walk into stores and haphazardly pick up stuff and bung them together.

"Check out some of the houses of these rich people and you'll see how aesthetically challenged they are. A little more interest in design will make a sea change in how a room looks," he explains.

Bhayana isn't the only one complaining. A host of furniture stores have cropped up in the metros to help consumers make an educated choice.

"People should see furniture as an investment. Buy something that will last," says Arun Mahajan, managing director, Style Spa Furniture Ltd (earlier known as Gautier).

Avers Subodh Varma, vice-chairman, Shriram Furniture Industries: "Do a bit of homework, talk to people who know and then go out to buy. It is something you'll spend a lifetime with."

So what should one do while buying furniture?

The first thing obviously is to know what you need -- the space that needs to be furnished. Says Varma: "Keep the basics of what you need in mind before you step out to buy. It saves time, money and the risk of disappointment."

Mahajan suggests that one should look at different options before deciding. "Furniture is a long term investment. You should be satisfied with what you purchase," he adds.

One should also be clear as to who would be using the furniture. This helps in deciding what style and material is best.

Single people and the older generation may choose designs that may not work for the family. And then children may have a totally different take.

Bhayana says: "Furniture has to be seen in an ambience and not in isolation. The priority while doing up a room is proportion and balance."

Most furniture dealers are wary of the Chinese imports and antique furniture. Warns Mahajan, "The quality of these imports is suspect. And anyway these are basically sofas and glass-based furniture."

Varma is of the view that Chinese furniture is not made of wood but from particle board. "These won't be durable," he opines.

As for antique furniture, Bhayana says there are no reputed or established dealers. "A majority of what is sold as antique furniture is manufactured in Rajasthan," says Mahajan.

While furniture still is an investment option, it is also a lifestyle statement. To possess good quality furniture has become aspirational.

With professional help, and design books and magazines readily available, doing up your home, is not too difficult.

The thumb rules

• Best is to buy furniture that is not carved. Simply because it is easier to clean and maintain furniture with straight lines and minimalist embellishments.
• Melamine polish is considered the best for wooden furniture. Scratches, nicks and stains can be cleaned with cleaners that are available in the market.
• While changing the upholstery, go for fabrics that are durable and ease to maintain. Buy from a store that ensures after-sales services.