According to research, your home is probably going to be the largest investment that you make in your lifetime. Of course, you want the best returns on that investment – but return on investment comes in many forms. For instance, there is a financial return on your hard work in home maintenance and even in alterations and additions.
But, your home provides another type of return, one that many believe is even more valuable than money in the bank. A home is more than an assemblage of bricks and mortar. It is a place where family and friends gather to share special moments, and it can also serve as a much-needed refuge from the stresses of modern life – an oasis of calm.
In order to ensure that your home delivers an exceptionally utilitarian and aesthetically pleasing interior space it will almost inevitably require multiple trips to the interior design and furniture shops that can be found spread across Dublin.
But does it actually? We live in a world where online shopping is exploding in popularity. The COVID pandemic forced many people to shelter in their own homes for extended periods of time – and they took to eCommerce like ducks to water – and that’s no wonder, the Internet shopping experience has many advantages over shopping for that perfect interior decor on the metaphorical High Street. However, what are these advantages – and are they enough to change how you interact with interior and furniture shops in Dublin such as Des Kelly Interiors & Furniture Shop in Dublin?
Incredible Choice
There are currently 26 million eCommerce sites worldwide, and that number grows each day. Of course, not all of these sites will offer interior decorating services or products, but if even 10% of the sites offer items that might meet your individual tastes – that’s an enormous amount of choice.
However, let’s be honest, there is the possibility that you already know your individual style and are not really interested in deviating from your unique tried, and proven interior design approach. You may already have a few interior design, fitted kitchens or furniture and mind – and are keen to hit the pavement.
Of course, that’s a valid approach. But always keep the following in mind:
1. The Internet is a great place to find interior design inspiration and keep up to date with the latest trends.
2. There is not a ‘High Street’ outlet on the planet that is going to offer you as much choice as you will find on the Internet.
Shopping as a Treat for the Senses
Shopping for those perfect pieces of furniture – or those unique decor items can be an incredibly pleasant experience. It can involve all of the senses. Visiting a specialist interior design or furnishings store allows the shopper to drink in the visual appeal of the many pieces that are on display. They can run their fingers over fabrics, and test the comfort levels of that special lounge suite.
However, keep this in mind. Human beings are a visual species – arguably our most pivotal sense is sight. Nature refined our eyes over thousands of years, first to fight off the attentions of Cave Bears – and now to appreciate the sensuous curves of Scandinavian sofas.
Your vision will be pampered if you choose the Internet shopping option. Some of the most well-known and respected interior designers have collections online – and these collections are showcased using incredible high-definition video and still images. Of course, if you have a favorite brand, it’s almost inevitable that the brand custodians will have an online shopping experience that will knock your socks off.
Customer Service
If you choose to shop for your perfect new interior decor piece at a brick-and-mortar retail establishment you’ll be exposed to some knowledgeable salespeople – who often seem as passionate about interior decorating as you are. It makes shopping that much more of an adventure. Your experience online can be just as rewarding – and you will not have to deal with the sort of persistence that can make any High Street sales experience incredibly stressful. Reputable online interior decor and furniture retailers have experts available to help you with your choices – and in the hyper-competitive Internet commerce environment you can bet that customer service is going to (by and large) be exceptional.
The Financial Perspective
Commerce 101. Supply and demand. If there is more of something on the market prices will decrease. remember those 26 million eCommerce sites? Many of them want your business and will go the extra mile to get you on board (and keep you there as a loyal customer). There can be very little argument that eCommerce reveals an enormous choice of products and services to the consumer.
The Pleasures of Choice
Keep in mind that the nature of the Internet is such that even highly specialised interior design tastes will be provided for by a quality online retailer. And it’s worth repeating that online shopping can reveal a wealth of choice – and is the perfect experience to get your creative juices flowing.
So should you stick to the brick and Mortar High Street, or opt for the online option when looking for interior and furniture shops in Dublin? A day out never hurt anyone, but if you are in search of interior design that meets your unique requirements, then the Internet will provide you with the perfect selection of virtual shop windows.
Lynn Martelli is an editor at Readability. She received her MFA in Creative Writing from Antioch University and has worked as an editor for over 10 years. Lynn has edited a wide variety of books, including fiction, non-fiction, memoirs, and more. In her free time, Lynn enjoys reading, writing, and spending time with her family and friends.
