~ 13 yrs. ago, I purchased a set of Rowe Carmel furniture- Couch, 2 Chairs & 2 Ottomans. I had absolutely NO clue what I was doing, I only knew that I absolutely wanted slipcovered furniture, so I could routinely launder the covers. They do launder beautifully! Each piece is so deep, that by removing the back cushions, it's a bed. (Even the Chair/Ottoman- Which is looong when placed together, can attach some velcro to keep them together for extra bed when needed). This is the most incredibly decadent, luxurious, comfortable furniture! But, over the past 13 yrs., I've read many stories (some from former employees), lamenting the sale / hostile takeover of the company, in which quality of construction was the 1st casualty. Another aspect- Think about what size apt/home you are likely to live in, long term. When I 1st purchased, we were in very spacious, open concept apt.- Then purchased our own home, mid-century built, this furniture barely fits, takes up the entire living space, and is WAY too big to fit in any alternate room. I can't even get 1 of the chairs into our bedrooms (our bedrooms measure 10X10 ft. & 8X9 ft.!)... I love having a small home, but this furniture just doesn't fit. It's both very looong, and very deep (seating surfaces). I can't even maneuver it around hallway corners, to get it into our enclosed sunroom. I'm thrilled w/ this purchase, though, we sure have gotten our $$ worth- It's so comfy, covers are washable, and is an extra bed whenever we need one. The "Nantucket" group, at least, is maybe 6" shorter/each piece (makes a world of difference). This Carmel chair alone, is massive, almost a loveseat. I do wish they had a much, much, smaller footprint (ie, apt. sized). When I buy new furniture, I won't buy again, due to well-published sale of company & decline in quality of furniture production."..." Read more
- Anonomous in Upstate NY