In recent years, shopping for furniture online has gained significant popularity in Ireland. Whether you’re furnishing a new home, upgrading your interiors, or simply looking for that perfect statement piece, online furniture shopping provides an unbeatable combination of convenience, variety, and often, affordability. From Dublin to Galway, Cork to Donegal, more Irish consumers are turning to online platforms for all their furnishing needs.
This guide explores why online furniture shopping is booming in Ireland, how to choose the right retailers, what to consider before making a purchase, and tips for ensuring a smooth shopping experience.
Why More Irish Shoppers Are Buying Furniture Online
There are several key reasons why shopping for furniture online is fast becoming the norm in Ireland:
1. Convenience and Time-Saving
Online shopping eliminates the need to travel to multiple stores. With just a few clicks, you can browse hundreds of options, compare prices, read reviews, and have your chosen piece delivered to your door. This is particularly attractive to busy professionals and parents who may not have the time to visit physical stores.
2. Broader Selection
Brick-and-mortar stores often have limited floor space and can’t display their entire inventory. Online furniture retailers, on the other hand, can showcase their full catalogue, offering more variety in terms of style, size, color, and material.
3. Competitive Pricing and Promotions
Many online retailers operate with lower overhead costs, which can lead to more competitive pricing. In addition, customers can easily search for sales, discount codes, or take advantage of online-exclusive offers like seasonal promotions and bundle deals.
Popular Online Furniture Stores in Ireland
Ireland has seen a surge in high-quality online furniture retailers, both local and international. Here are some of the most trusted platforms such as the famous Furniture Next Day in Ireland:
EZ Living Interiors
With a strong online presence and physical stores across Ireland, EZ Living offers a wide range of living room, dining room, and bedroom furniture. Their website is user-friendly and features frequent discounts.
Harvey Norman Ireland
Known for electronics and furniture, Harvey Norman’s Irish website allows you to shop everything from mattresses to recliners with home delivery or in-store pickup options.
JYSK Ireland
This Scandinavian chain offers affordable yet stylish furniture and home décor. Their minimalistic approach is ideal for contemporary Irish homes.
Meubles.ie
Based in Kilkenny, Meubles is an Irish family-run business offering designer furniture, accessories, and even custom pieces, all available to browse and purchase online.
Wayfair.ie
While not uniquely Irish, Wayfair has become a go-to online furniture destination. They ship across Ireland and offer an extensive range of products at different price points.
Key Considerations Before Buying Furniture Online
Before you hit that “Buy Now” button, there are some important factors to consider when purchasing furniture online in Ireland:
1. Measurements and Space Planning
Always measure your space before buying. Use online tools or apps to visualise how a piece will look in your home. Many websites now offer AR (augmented reality) features that allow you to “place” furniture in your room virtually.
2. Material and Build Quality
Make sure to read the product specifications thoroughly. Materials like solid wood, engineered wood, and MDF each have their own pros and cons. Check the warranty and product care information to ensure it fits your lifestyle.
3. Delivery and Assembly Services
Ireland’s geography can sometimes pose delivery challenges, especially for those living in rural areas or on offshore islands. Check the delivery zones, costs, and if the store provides assembly services or doorstep delivery only.
4. Return Policy
It’s essential to understand the return and refund policy in case the furniture doesn’t meet your expectations. Most reputable Irish online stores provide a 14-day return window, but be sure to check if return shipping is covered.
5. Customer Reviews and Ratings
Use reviews as a decision-making tool. Feedback from previous buyers can reveal valuable insights about the product’s durability, comfort, and true-to-image appearance.
Trends in Online Furniture Shopping in Ireland
As with other industries, furniture shopping in Ireland is influenced by evolving design preferences and technology:
1. Sustainability and Eco-Friendly Options
Irish consumers are becoming more eco-conscious. Retailers are responding by offering furniture made from sustainable materials like bamboo, reclaimed wood, or FSC-certified timber. Look for eco-labels and transparency about sourcing practices.
2. Customisable and Modular Furniture
Modular furniture is gaining traction, especially in urban areas where space is limited. Consumers appreciate the flexibility of configuring sofas, shelves, and storage units to fit their space.
3. Multifunctional Designs
With the rise of remote working in Ireland, there’s greater demand for modern workspace furniture that serves more than one purpose, such as fold-out desks, storage ottomans, or sofa beds.
4. Buy Now, Pay Later Options
Retailers are increasingly offering interest-free installment payments through services like Klarna and Humm, making it easier for customers to invest in quality furniture without upfront costs.
Tips for a Successful Online Furniture Shopping Experience
Follow these practical tips to make your furniture shopping seamless and stress-free:
Make a List of Essentials
Prioritize what you need most—whether it’s a new bed, dining table, or sofa—so you don’t get distracted by trendy but unnecessary items.
Set a Budget
With so many appealing options, it’s easy to overspend. Decide on your maximum budget and filter your search accordingly.
Ask for Fabric Swatches
Many online retailers offer to send fabric or wood samples. This is especially helpful when selecting large upholstered items, as screen colors can vary.
Check for Irish-Based Customer Support
Ensure the company has local support available should issues arise with your order or delivery.
Photograph Everything Upon Delivery
In case you need to initiate a return or claim warranty service, having photos of any damage or discrepancies will be helpful. Even hire a professional photographer if needed.
Supporting Local Irish Businesses
Whenever possible, try to support Irish-owned furniture retailers. Not only does this boost the local economy, but it also often ensures faster delivery and better customer service. Many Irish furniture makers also specialise in handcrafted, bespoke pieces that offer exceptional quality and uniqueness.
By choosing local brands, you’re helping preserve Irish craftsmanship and encouraging sustainable business practices within your community
The Takeaway
Shopping for furniture online in Ireland offers an unmatched level of convenience, variety, and value. With a growing number of trusted local and international retailers delivering nationwide, it’s easier than ever to find pieces that suit your home, budget, and style. By being informed and intentional about your purchases, measuring carefully, reading reviews, and choosing sustainable or local options—you can turn your house into a home with confidence and ease.
Whether you’re decorating a cozy apartment in Dublin or revamping a countryside cottage in Kerry, the perfect piece of furniture is just a click away.
