Australians prioritise comfort & durability in furniture

Australians are placing greater weight on durability and comfort when buying furniture, according to a new survey of 1,171 people by furniture retailer Luxo Living.

The survey data shows that 47% of respondents put comfort and durability first when choosing furniture. A smaller share, 22%, ranked price as their top priority.

Respondents also reported a clear preference for established designs over fleeting trends. More than three-quarters said their main style fitted one of three aesthetics.

'Modern and minimalist' topped the list at 36%, followed by 'natural and timeless' at 24%, and 'coastal and relaxed' at 17%.

Luxo Living said the findings point to a shift in how people plan and furnish their homes, noting that homeowners increasingly want spaces that work for daily life.

"Our findings show that Australians are making more intentional and practical choices when designing and furnishing their homes. Instead of pursuing trends or lower price points, comfort, durability and timeless designs are what's driving purchase decisions. Our findings also highlight a desire for furniture that not only looks good, but can stand the test of time," said Winston Tu, Founder, Luxo Living.

Style choices

The results suggest many consumers desire calm, flexible interiors, with the most popular styles relying on neutral palettes and simpler forms. These preferences also point to a demand for materials and finishes that suit a wide range of homes.

Luxo Living linked the popularity of 'natural and timeless' interiors with a growing interest in organic materials. The retailer noted that these preferences directly influence purchasing decisions and room layouts.

"Curating modern minimalist and natural collections that balance clean aesthetics with genuine comfort proves that these priorities aren't contradictory. With over 75% of Australians favouring these styles, it represents the core of Australian home design today," said Tu.

Room atmosphere

Beyond style labels, respondents also described the atmosphere they want at home. More than a third, 36%, chose a 'light and airy' feel as their ideal. A smaller group, 29%, said they prefer spaces with warmth and a more grounded character.

Luxo Living said the results show a split between brightness and warmth, with both preferences still tied to comfort. The survey data indicates many people want interiors that feel open. It also points to demand for spaces that feel inviting.

Digital research

The survey also highlights how Australians research furniture and interiors. More than half of respondents, 52%, said they use Instagram and Pinterest for inspiration. A further 21% said they use interior design websites and blogs.

Luxo Living said social platforms now shape how customers discover products and compare styles. It said buyers also look for practical detail when they review content.

"This digital-first approach has transformed how people engage with furniture brands and products. With over half of Australians finding inspiration on these platforms, it shows us that content quality matters. Creating practical digital content on social platforms such as Instagram and Pinterest is moving beyond just pretty pictures, and into useful styling guidance and honest material information," said Tu.

Living room focus

The living room stands out as the main priority for home updates. Some 47% said they plan to refresh their living rooms first. Bedrooms came next at 24%. Dining rooms followed at 13%, while 12% prioritised outdoor spaces.

The results signal a focus on the areas of the home that see the most daily use. Luxo Living said the living room now carries multiple roles for many households.

Tu described the living room as the most used space in the home and a multi-functioning hub. He said the sofa and lounge rank as the most sought-after furniture pieces among Australians.

"This survey gives us a deeper understanding of how customer behaviour, preferences, and home trends are shifting. It indicates what Australians want when planning their living spaces and purchase decisions. For us at Luxo Living, this means prioritising durability verification in every piece we stock, ensuring comfort and longevity meet the standards Australians now demand. Every sofa, bed, and dining table must pass the real-life test," said Tu.

Luxo Living said the survey results will influence its product selection and its checks on materials and build quality across key categories such as sofas, beds and dining tables.